Manhasset High School honors Class of 2025 at commencement ceremony

Manhasset High School held its 105th annual commencement ceremony at Manhasset Secondary School; the transcript does not specify the date.

The ceremony featured speeches by student leaders and district officials, formal certification by the principal that graduates met state and district requirements, the presentation of diplomas by the superintendent and board of education members, induction of Silver M Society honorees, recognition of retirees, and musical and choral performances.

Class president Declan Gann opened the student remarks and thanked teachers, staff and families: "To our teachers for believing in us when we doubted ourselves... You have all made more of a difference than you know, and as a class, we are eternally grateful," Gann said. Salutatorian Grace Punzalan urged classmates to appreciate the present and the relationships formed in school, including the "in-between" moments that shaped the class. Valedictorian Julie Chen spoke about carrying supportive people into the future and called graduates to keep that network close as they move on.

Dr. Gaurav Posse, superintendent of the Manhasset Union Free School District, delivered a keynote that framed resilience as the central lesson of the class's years in school. Posse recounted the story of violinist Itzhak Perlman and quoted the lesson he drew from it: "sometimes it's the artist's task to find out how much music you can still make with what you have left," illustrating the idea of adapting when plans change. Principal Dr. Rotor thanked staff and custodial teams, described the district's involvement with students since elementary school for many graduates, and formally certified the class's completion of graduation requirements. "I hereby certify to each of you that the members of the class of 2,025 gathered here today have met all the requirements for graduation prescribed by the state of New York and the Manhasset public schools," Dr. Rotor said, referencing New York State and district guidelines.

The Silver M Society, represented by president Cade Kenlon, inducted six student members and two honorary inductees. Kenlon listed student inductees and summarized their activities and leadership roles. The two honorary inductees named in the ceremony were Patricia O'Brien, recognized for veteran-focused programs and youth mentorship, and Lisonbee Hunger, cited for longstanding support of the district's science research program and student mentorship.

The senior class announced a gift of Manhasset-themed graphics to beautify the newly painted cafeteria; a board of education trustee accepted the donation on the district's behalf. The ceremony also recognized several retirees by name and noted two graduates, Daniel James Colon and Sean Bridal, who are already attending the U.S. Naval Academy and could not be present.

Musical elements included a performance of the national anthem by the Manhasset High School band under director Greg Sisco and a featured performance of "Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)" by Green Day performed by a senior vocalist under the direction of Jared Berry. The ceremony concluded with the traditional turning of tassels, the singing of the Manhasset High School alma mater, and a cap toss.

Copies of the full graduate roster and the order of diploma presentation were read aloud; the program named valedictorian Julie Chen and salutatorian Grace Punzalan, and listed class officers and the alphabetical roll call of graduates.

Less-critical items noted during the ceremony included remarks from the senior class adviser, Miss Lindberner, advice from teachers and staff, and thanks to technical and grounds crews who supported the event. No formal votes or policy actions were taken beyond the principal's certification of graduation eligibility.