WATCH: South Orange-Maplewood Students Graduate High School

SOUTH ORANGE-MAPLEWOOD, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of the South Orange-Maplewood Public School District. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

There was a strong feeling of change and excitement in the air as Columbia High School’s Class of 2025 celebrated the next chapter of life for over 500 graduates and their families at the Essex County Codey Arena in the South Mountain Reservation on June 18, 2025.

The ceremony began with a performance of “Pomp and Circumstance” by the Columbia High School Band, directed by Todd Van Beveren, whose steady leadership has anchored the school’s instrumental program throughout the year. The Excelsior Singers and Canens Vocem, conducted by Nicholas Diaz, followed with thoughtful renditions of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Both ensembles reflected the consistency and care their directors have brought to Columbia’s music programs during the school year.

Administrators and student leaders joined Principal Frank Sanchez in highlighting memorable moments from the school year, ranging from light-hearted stories to thoughtful reflections on growth and perseverance. Student Council President Isabelle Livingstone spoke about the curiosity and wonder we experience as children, and how that same spirit can carry us into the future. Her words encouraged graduates to face what comes next with openness and courage, drawing strength from all they’ve learned.

Senior Class President Audrey Nogeura offered a heartfelt message about saying goodbye, comparing it to trees in winter letting go of their leaves in order to grow again. Her reflection captured the meaningful, sometimes unpredictable nature of high school, full of quirky traditions and lasting lessons.

Among the evening’s acknowledgments was the recognition of Columbia’s top academic performers. Theodore Abbate was named valedictorian, and Bryant Yang was recognized as salutatorian. Both students received their honors during the ceremony, a nod to their academic dedication and steady presence throughout their years at Columbia High School.

Superintendent Jason Bing brought levity to the ceremony with a speech styled as an ’80s mixtape, using song titles as springboards for life advice. Threading together tracks like “I’m So Excited,” “Don’t Stop Believin’,” and “Eye of the Tiger,” Bing delivered three core takeaways to graduates: love yourself, stay present, and don’t give up. From Huey Lewis to Whitney Houston, the playlist was part nostalgia trip, part motivational message, ending with a reminder that no matter what the future holds, the beat goes on.

The evening was a harmonious blend of celebration and gratitude. Board of Education President Nubia DuVall Wilson shared her own story of post-graduation twists and growth, reminding students that life’s path is rarely straight, and that curiosity and kindness go a long way. Her message reflected the resilience students showed throughout the year, from adapting to shifting schedules to balancing academics, activities, and friendships. These everyday challenges helped shape a class that’s ready for whatever comes next.

One of the most touching moments came from senior Reese Wolfinger’s short film, which captured candid, everyday memories of the past four years. Set to music and filled with hallway laughs, school events, and shared glances, the documentary reminded everyone that the spirit of high school is often found in the small, unplanned moments. As the Class of 2025 received their diplomas and turned their tassels, they stepped into the future not just with excitement but with gratitude for the journey that brought them there.

And if one had to sum up this senior year in a single line? It had its quirks and surprises, but mostly it was full of laughter, learning, and the kind of memories that stay with you for decades.

Columbia’s Class of 2025 didn’t just finish high school. They made it their own, every step of the way.

Watch a video of the ceremony below.

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