Preceded by the Roisin Dubh Pipe Band, the graduating seniors of Deer Park High School’s Class of 2024 walked on to Al Centamore Athletic Field on a lovely June 27 evening, ready to celebrate one of life’s biggest milestones. To kick off the school’s 61st commencement, Xavier Edmond sang a stunning rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” before a string of memorable speeches riveted the students, staff and families in attendance.
“As we reflect on the journey we’ve shared with you over the past four years, we are filled with immense pride and admiration,” senior class advisers Andrea D’Orazio and Olivia Vilardi Perez told the students. “Today marks not just the culmination of your high school education, but the beginning of a new chapter filled with limitless possibilities. Don’t forget the lessons that you’ve learned here. Cherish the friendships that you’ve made, the mentors who’ve guided you and the experiences that have shaped you. As you embark on this next phase of your lives, dare to dream big and pursue your passions with unwavering determination.”
Senior Class President Katia Papailler talked about her senior quote, “Consistency is the prerequisite to excellence.”
“This line means that you have to be true to who you are throughout your life to truly achieve your definition of excellence,” Papailler said. “Excellence is what you want it to be. Never let anyone darken your light, as it should be limitless. Wherever your path takes you, make sure to stay true to yourself in the process. Thank you, Class of 2024 for letting me be a part of your small journey, as I know that each and every one of you will go so far. Make sure your life is a great one, because truly, the choice is yours.”
Salutatorian Calvin Nguyen touched the hearts of all in attendance with a speech that focused on his older sister and role model Christine, who died of brain cancer in 2021.
“When she passed away in front of me, and I saw her beautiful smile go away, I wanted to die,” Nguyen recalled. “My number one supporter, gone in front of my very eyes. I vowed to do everything in my power to work to change who I was, assume responsibility, try to be the beacon of inspiration that she was for me, and make it to the top, just like she was supposed to be for her graduating Class of 2022. Christine, I hope you’re proud of me and that you’re in heaven right now looking down at all of us smiling. I’m here standing on this very podium, just like I promised. Life is unfortunately unpredictable, so cherish the present, cherish those who you surround yourself with and cherish the great times like today. Be the epicenter of activism for your microcosm and you will make a lasting contribution to our macrocosm.”
“Some can call a dream a delusion,” valedictorian Jordan Trojan said. “I call it a vision. To do something worthwhile in this world, you must follow your calling: a thing that makes you dream. An idea or spirit that calls upon you, something which feels natural to follow. It doesn’t have to be lofty nor prestigious, just something that makes you feel whole and that feels genuine. As we look beyond today, we are finally able to forge ahead into adulthood and begin a new phase of our lives. Whether you go to college, start a business or a trade, or join the armed forces, it matters not what you do, but that you wish to do it. The world will rest on our shoulders and it is up to us to make a better future. Our education here at Deer Park prepared us to spread our wings and take flight. Today is that day, and to the Class of 2024, let us fly.”
The day’s guest speaker was Deer Park Class of 2014 valedictorian and Harvard University graduate Kyle Devine, who advised the graduates to not dwell on their mistakes.
“As we grow up, we are forced to make seemingly impossible choices,” Devine said. “We won’t always know how our choices will affect others or ourselves. Mistakes are to be expected, and dare I say, welcome. They do not render our efforts in vain. Instead, they are opportunities to help us become better, so long that we did not let them make us hesitant to continue on or try again. A true sign of character is how you handle it when things go wrong/ How you reflect, how you go accountable, and most importantly, how you decide to move forward. Dwelling on experiences does not change the past, but reflecting on our experiences allows us to learn and improve.”
“I want to leave you with some final pieces of advice,” Superintendent James Cummings told the grads. “Surround yourself with good people who help you be the best version of yourself. Stand up for yourself, stand up for what is right and stand up for what is just. Take risks, dream big and never give up. Treat people as though it will be the last time you see them. To Kyle’s point, understand that there’s no such thing as failures in life, there are successes and there are lessons, and I hope you learn from those lessons. Happiness is not determined by your possessions, but by the relationships you develop with the people you love and respect. Take nothing for granted, that means every friend, every family member, every day and every moment. Plan for the future, but never forget to live for and enjoy each moment. Most importantly, be good to yourself and others.”
“It is an honor to stand before you today on this momentous occasion of your graduation ceremony,” Principal Charles Cobb told the new graduates. “You have worked hard, persevered through adversity and achieved a significant milestone in your lives. As your principal, I have watched you grow and evolve into the remarkable young adults that you are today. I have witnessed your accomplishments, your struggles and your triumphs. I have seen you develop your talents, explore your passions and discover your true potential, and I'm proud to say that you have exceeded all expectations. Never forget where you came from. Cherish your memories of high school, your friends and your experiences. Stay connected with your alma mater and give back to your community. You are now part of a proud legacy of Deer Park High School, and we hope that you will continue to represent us with honor and distinction. Go forth and conquer the world, Class of 2024, and may your future be filled with happiness, success and fulfillment.”
One by one, each graduate walked to the podium, where their diplomas were awarded by members of the Board of Education. They then performed the tradition turning of their tassels and hurled their caps into the June sky, ready to fly as Falcons alumni.
Date Added: 7/1/2024