The sun warmed the smiling faces of a distinguished group of graduating seniors on June 28 at the Northport High School commencement ceremony, honoring the Class of 2024 and celebrating their collective accomplishments.
As “Pomp and Circumstance” carried through the air, the excited graduates took to Stadium Field for the last time as students of the Northport-East Northport Union Free School District. The commencement exercises then began with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Senior Class Representative Marie Kovacs and the national anthem performed by the Northport High School choirs under the direction of Mr. Dana Warren.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. David Moyer then took the stage to address the Class of 2024 where he shared encouraging words with graduates.
“Embrace the beauty of the moment,” he said, “seize the opportunities that present themselves to you, serve others around you and always, always, look to the good.”
Salutatorian Luke Tuthill spoke to his fellow classmates about the importance of balance and, although difficult to perfect, it is worthwhile to pursue.
“Achieving the balance of looking at what’s right in front of you while also looking ahead can be challenging, especially where there are so many options for you to choose from,” Luke said. “Even though striving for balance can be challenging, it can also be a very worthwhile goal.”
The Northport High School choirs then continued their tradition of singing “Fields of Gold” before Board of Education President Dr. Lorenzo Licopoli addressed the graduates.
“What a beautiful day for the Board of Education and all of the members of the community here today to celebrate the Class of 2024,” Dr. Licopoli said. “The Board also extends our gratitude to family, friends, district leaders, faculty and staff who have supported and guided this class.”
Valedictorian Emily Wickard then delivered her address, in which she implored her peers to embrace failures and pursue challenging endevors.
“Perseverance got us this far, and it is what will take us forward into our futures, whatever they may be,” Emily said. “Sometimes making changes can be difficult, disorienting and unwanted. This uncertainty can be overwhelming and uncomfortable, and it is only by staying the course and putting in the work to do what is best for you that you will succeed.”
Northport High School Principal Rob Dennis encouraged students to remember the small details of their life and to use them as learning experiences to propel them into a successful future.
“Today marks the next phase of your journey,” Mr. Dennis said. “I ask you to think about the details that have helped you arrive here today and the ones that await you. It is my hope that Northport High School is a detail that you look fondly upon years from now as you add to your life’s pages and chapters.”
Members of the Board of Education then began the presentation of diplomas. After the final diplomas were presented, cheers and applause echoed across the field as Senior Class Representative Charles Loeber led his peers in the tassel change and students emphatically threw their caps to the sky, exiting the field as alumni of Northport High School.
Click here to view the Annual Commencement Celebrates Northport High School Class of 2024 slideshow.
Date Added: 7/1/2024