There may have been clouds in the sky, but the Oyster Bay High School graduation on June 27 was anything but gloomy. Although the threat of rain moved the ceremony indoors to the high school gymnasium, spirits were high and joy was abundant. The stands were filled with family and friends, and students marched in with their heads held high.

The Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Mr. Matthew Sisia, played the familiar strains of Pomp and Circumstance as the senior class filed in from the upper lobby. Led by teachers and administrators in ceremonial gowns, the seniors entered in two lines and converged at the center of the gymnasium.

Senior class president Gabriella Sherlock led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the National Anthem, performed by the OBHS Chamber Singers under the direction of Ms. Melissa Kozee and conducted by senior Mosie Bradley. Students from the ASL program, along with their teacher, Ms. Nicolle Sisia, translated the lyrics into American Sign Language.

Principal Melissa Argaman welcomed everyone and introduced the speakers, including salutatorian Julia Milos, valedictorian Mia Bencal, Superintendent Francesco Ianni, and Board of Education President Nancy Castrogiovanni.

Superintendent Ianni delivered an inspiring message rooted in his own experience immigrating to the United States, arriving with no English and having to restart his schooling. He chose to persevere and, two years later, earned a scholarship to NYU to study mathematics. I never gave up because failure isn't final – only quitting is, he told the graduates. We make our comeback not in one giant leap, but by continuously moving forward against the current.

He drew a parallel between his journey and that of the Class of 2026, who began middle school at OBHS during the COVID-19 pandemic. You turned friction into excellence. Rather than simply getting by, you have paved the way for extraordinary futures. You have proven you are prepared to lead, adapt, and flourish in whatever comes next. Walk into the world like you own it – not with arrogance, but with the quiet, unshakable confidence in your own strength.

Valedictorian Mia Bencal continued the theme of perseverance, reminding her classmates that people of accomplishment rarely sit back and let things happen to them – they happen to things. She urged the Class of 2026 to pursue their dreams and not to watch the world from the sidelines.

After the speeches, Principal Argaman presented the Beekman Medal to senior Giovanna Lisa. The honor is awarded annually to the graduating senior who best exemplifies the leadership, service, and integrity that define the Oyster Bay High School community.

National Honor Society President Giovanni Marinos then named Dr. Deirdre Faughey an honorary member of the National Honor Society, continuing the chapter's annual tradition of honoring an exceptional teacher.

Each member of the graduating class was called to receive their diploma from Dr. Ianni and Ms. Castrogiovanni. Senior class officer Scarlett Frederickson led the graduates in the ceremonial turning of their tassels from right to left, and with a joyous cheer, caps filled the air.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026!