Home Community Community News Greenport’s Class of 2017 graduates at 136th commencement exercises

Greenport’s Class of 2017 graduates at 136th commencement exercises

Photo: Katharine Schroeder

Fifty-six students graduated from Greenport High School this afternoon at the 136th commencement exercises held in the auditorium.

The Greenport High School band played “Pomp and Circumstance” as the students made their way to the stage for the last time. Class president Jennifer Palencia led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Superintendent David Gamberg spoke to the students first, urging them to be grateful for all who contributed to their educations.

“From bus drivers to custodians, local businesses and charitable organizations,” he said. “It is a beautiful and mutually beneficial relationship.”

Mr. Gamberg then presented an honorary high school diploma to Reginald Peterson, who left Greenport School just before his 1943 graduation to join the Army. Peterson was declared missing in action twice, but returned home in 1946. In 1986 he was awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart, but did not receive the medals until 2016, 70 years later. In May, 2017 Peterson was inducted into the New York State Veterans Hall of Fame. His daughter Kathy Ward accepted the diploma on his behalf.

Principal Gary Kalish presented the 2017 Principal’s Award for outstanding character and perseverance to Samuel Strickland, saying he was inspired by Samuel’s natural leadership abilities

“What’s impressed me most about this young man,” said Kalish, “is his kindness and his care for both his fellow classmates, his teachers and all those around him. Every day he tries to be a good person.”

Salutatorian Toni Esposito thanked teachers, family and friends, saying “I hope each of you become the person that your loved ones described as they talk about you to others. You all have made my time at Greenport one of the best experiences that I will keep with me forever.

Valedictorian Angelina Pagano spoke of the importance of determination and hard work.

“Hard work built our nation and remains the heartbeat of America,” she said. “If you have a dream and determination, you can achieve any goal. You can do anything. You are your own best advocate.”

This year’s commencement speaker was Greenport High School 2010 graduate Alexander Angelson, who works as an assistant to White House Chief of Staff Reince Priebus.

Angelson urged students to work hard, saying, “No matter where you are headed, work to make yourself something special. You have every opportunity to succeed no matter what you choose. Push yourselves, get out of your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid of the unknown. Strive to be the best version of yourself every day.”

SoutholdLOCAL photos by Katharine Schroeder

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Katharine is a writer and photographer who has lived on the North Fork for nearly 40 years, except for three-plus years in Hong Kong a decade ago, working for the actor Jackie Chan. She lives in Cutchogue. Email Katharine