Ward Melville High School celebrates Class of 2023
Members of the Ward Melville High School Class of 2023 proudly walked through balloon arches and out onto the front lawn of the school on June 25 to celebrate their graduation. Family and friends cheered the soon-to-be graduates on, as the Ward Melville Symphonic Band played “Pomp and Circumstance.”
Commencement exercises began with the Pledge of Allegiance led by student government president Mikaeel Zohair, followed by a performance of the Star-Spangled Banner by senior Adam Bear. Principal William Bernhard welcomed the crowd and touted the school’s recent Blue Ribbon School designation, crediting in part, the accomplishments of the graduating class. Additionally, Mr. Bernhard recognized graduating senior Jesse Guise for having perfect attendance since kindergarten — an achievement only recorded one other time in Ward Melville history.
Board of Education President Susan E. Megroz Rosenzweig gave opening remarks and offered advice to the Class of 2023. Bernhard then welcomed this year’s keynote speaker, Edward Bonahue, president of Suffolk County Community College and graduate of Ward Melville High School. Bonahue praised students for their resiliency during the pandemic and encouraged them to continue to persevere through challenges.
Zohair returned to the podium to reflect on his time at Ward Melville High School. On behalf of the student government, Zohair presented the class gift — banners to hang on the campus light poles with messages of Patriot pride.
Bernhard introduced the top academic leaders of the Class of 2023, valedictorian Ava Della Pietra and salutatorian Serene Stoller. Both students delivered speeches that reflected on their journeys. Stoller first touched on the concept of invisibility and encouraged her peers to be leaders, even when it doesn’t require being in the spotlight.
“We live in a world that appreciates the strength of vibrant voices and celebrates visible accomplishments,” Stoller said. “But we must remember that behind every ground-breaking innovation, every transformative idea and every societal change, there are countless invisible heroes who toiled away, uncelebrated but essential. So, I urge you to seek out the problems that society overlooks and find innovative solutions.”
Della Pietra spoke about the importance of being connected and noted how the class will always be connected through their experiences in Three Village.
“As we reflect on this chapter in our lives, let’s not forget the value of human connection,” she said. “If you retrace your path through high school, you’ll probably find your most cherished moments brimming with shared experience, because life is so much sweeter when you have someone to share your triumphs and failures with.”
Following the remarks, the seniors walked across the stage and received their diplomas from members of the board of education. Bernhard presented the graduating class, and Class of 2023 representative Anna Calise led the turning of the tassels. Students threw their caps into the air, signifying the end of their time at Ward Melville High School.
