As the Pearl River High School Class of 2013 celebrated its graduation with the school's 107th commencement ceremony on the football field, Salutatorian Terence Hughes spoke of the way the community pulls together in times of loss.
"Our community has experienced inexplicable grief over the last few years with the loss of parents, relatives and fellow students, including Tommy Scogs, Tommy Argenti and one of our own, Justin Rogers," Hughes said. "I know they are with us today and Justin is proudly marching across the stage with each and every one of us in spirit.
"It is this response to loss that has amazed me most and taught me more than any textbook could teach me. I consider a true friend someone who always has my back and I know in Pearl River, everyone always has each other’s back, no matter the circumstances."
The speeches all through the graduation of Pearl River High School's 192-member class of 2013 touched on tragedy and challenges as well as achievements and appreciation for parents, teachers, administrators and students.
Principal William Furdon also spoke of Rogers, who died from injuries suffered in an automobile accident in 2010. He would have been part of the 2013 graduating class. He also spoke of the way the students responded to challenges built into the high school experience.
"In your time at Pearl River High School, we have challenged you discover your personal cause, your personal victory and humanity," Furdon said. "The way which you want to make the world a better place and you’ve found it.
"In return you have challenged the high school to improve and we fully accept that challenge. As we celebrate this day with you, we honor you not only for your achievements and promise, but also for the myriad of ways in which you leave Pearl River a better high school today than you found it."
Class Valedictorian Annette Krysiewicz spoke of obstacles the students faced this year, many caused by Hurricane Sandy.
"We are standing here today, which proves we won't let all that bad luck get in the way of our success," Krysiewicz said.
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