Cheering with joy, parents and friends of Southold’s Class of 2015 crowded into the high school auditorium to watch graduates take place in today’s commencement ceremony.
After a welcome by Principal Willam Galati, Class President Alexander Poliwoda led a salute to the flag.
Salutatorian Emily Pressler addressed the audience with a smile, explaining that when she set out to write her speech, she Googled “graduation speeches” and checked out YouTube. Pressler thanked the teachers and many others who helped her along her journey and shared memories of growing up in Southold schools, where children with a close-knit bond experienced visits to the apple orchard, muffins with moms and donuts with dad, prom night, Thanksgiving dinners and a sea of other cherished memories.
Valedictorian Julia Saccamano recited her own rendition of a Dr. Seuss poem, personalizing the verses with memories and thanks. “The future for all of us is wide and unknown, waiting for all of us to make it our own,” she said.
Superintendent David Gamberg said he was “compelled to comment on how close I feel to this class,” recalling the children who’ve grown into young adults. “You’ve left behind a wonderful legacy to those who follow in your footsteps,” he said. Gamberg said two skills, those of asking good questions and the art of listening, were critical in life. “To hear is one thing but to listen and listen well is quite another,” he said.
Over $2.2 million in tuition and scholarships was awarded to the 75 graduates.
In closing, Galati told the graduates, “Never stop thinking and dreaming. Who inspires you?” He added, “Remember to live your best story. Inspire others. Build a legacy. You are a Settler.”
