Approximately 550 seniors in Syosset’s Class of 2016 took their turn at
the podium to accept their high school diplomas during the school’s 58th
annual Commencement held at Hofstra University.
Following crisp renditions of the traditional processional
march performed by the Syosset High School Orchestra and “The
Star-Spangled Banner” from the school’s group, The Adelettes, Syosset
High School Principal Dr. Giovanni Durante delivered the welcoming
remarks, then addressed the Class of 2016.“Over the course of your education, you were given the
opportunity to strengthen your individuality and broaden your horizons,”
Dr. Durante said to the soon-to-be-grads. “By doing so, you brought a
new perspective into our school and made a distinct impact by making us
better than you found us. For that I thank you!”
Dr. Durante referenced many of the impressive and
distinguishing accomplishments highlighting the character demonstrated
through the outreach and service they provided, including trips to
nursing homes, walkathons, food drives, peer tutoring, Bravesfest and
last year’s 7 in 7 Campaign, whereby the school collectively raised
money for eight desperately needed heart surgeries for children around
the world.
The evening also featured inspirational speeches from Board
of Education President Michael Cohen and trustees Christopher Di Filippo
and Andrew Feldman – all proud fathers of Class of 2016 members.
Superintendent Dr. Tom Rogers, class speaker Sophie Rosenbaum,
valedictorian Benjamin Senzer and salutatorian Michael Collet also
provided words of wisdom to the graduating class.
Citing many of the interests and career plans of her class
members, speaker Sophie said, “Our class is filled with extraordinary
people, who will go on to do extraordinary things.”
Michael urged his classmates to work hard and not sleep on
their dreams. “Dreams do not come true just because we dream them,” he
said. “We shouldn’t be dreamers. We should be doers. We have to earn
it.”
Benjamin advised the class to avoid being content with their
present accomplishments, and continue to strive for greater success and
fulfillment in life. “Look up to the future with curiosity and
endeavor,” he said. “Look up to what you have not yet accomplished. Look
up to what you can be.”
Class president Josh Thomas and vice president Jeremy
Lamstein presented the class gift: additional digital message boards to
keep students apprised of events and news happening at the high school.
Josh was also the recipient of this year’s Elisabeth T. Babcock Award,
presented by the Board of Education to a senior who best demonstrates
altruism throughout the course of the year.
Dr. Durante honored students that received scholarly
recognitions including National Merit scholars, finalists and commended
students, as well as the Intel Science Talent Search semifinalists,
Siemens Competition semifinalist, Siemens Competition Regional finalist
throughout the year. Members of Syosset’s PTA/STA presented scholarship
awards, as did members of SEPTA.
The commencement culminated with each student walking up to receive their diploma, and the traditional cap toss.
Click here to view a slideshow from Graduation
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