Port Chester HS 2023 Grads Honored For 'Faith In Themselves'

PORT CHESTER, NY — The Port Chester High School Class of 2023 overcame challenges that few other generations have had to face. The proud students said a fond farewell with messages of resilience and determination.

From Port Chester Public Schools:

Port Chester High School celebrated its Class of 2023 during a commencement ceremony at John Wynne Ryan Memorial Stadium on June 23. Students were joined by an audience of family, friends, administration and faculty as they marked the milestone of completing their high school experience.

The ceremony began with a processional to "Pomp and Circumstance" by the Port Chester High School Band, directed by Michael Miceli, band director, followed by the performance of "The Star-Spangled Banner" by the Port Chester Sound. Principal Luke Sotherden welcomed the guests and honorees and reminded the graduating class to never stop pursuing their dreams.

"Do not ever give up," Sotherden said. "A way to success will always exist for those who have faith in themselves and work hard."

Superintendent of Schools Aurelia Henriquez reminded students that while they cannot control how others treat them, they can control how they treat others, while sharing a poem from Dr. Kent Keith.

"These words challenge us to still choose love, still choose like, to do good, to succeed, to be honest and frank, to help and give the world the best," Henriquez said.

Students were also addressed by board of education President Chrissie Onofrio, as well as class co-presidents Gwen Dominquez and Nexayda Samano, salutatorian Sophia Ortiz-Heaney, valedictorian Benjamin Reyes and keynote speaker Rev. Gerald Washington. In her address, Dominguez quoted author Ali Khan, reminding her classmates that they will always have a common bond.

"Growing apart does not change the fact that for a long time we grew side by side," Dominguez said. "Our roots will always be entangled. As we continue to flourish, I hope our roots never untangle. I have faith that they will allow us to grow in a positive progress in our own lives and the world around us."

During her remarks, Samano reflected on the past four years and looked ahead to the future.

"I would like to not only thank our friends and family for providing us with love and support through these past four years, but I would like to thank my fellow classmates for making my time at PCHS an unforgettable experience," Marin-Samano said. "I wish you all the best, and I can’t wait to see the amazing things you all do in the future."

During her salutatory address, Ortiz-Heaney thanked her friends, family and classmates, and referenced the short time they had left at PCHS.

"Let’s make the most of the of the miniscule time we have left," Ortiz-Heaney said. "Touch your robes and caps, hope it doesn’t rain, but embrace the droplets if it does. And look at the faces of the loved ones both on the field and in the bleachers. This is our moment, on our field, with our 'Ramily.' Let’s enjoy it one last time."

In his address, Reyes looked ahead to the future for his graduating class.

"Today is a pivotal moment, to take the responsibility to make our own choices and shape our futures," Reyes said. "Our time to shine is now. I have no doubt that each and every one of us has the potential to create a future that surpasses our wildest dreams."

Finally, Rev. Washington compared the educational experience of the graduates to his experience on U.S. Navy ships in stormy seas, rolling from side to side but never capsizing, and sent the Class of 2023 off with a suggested motto.

"We’re Port Chester graduates and no one can be prouder," Washington said. "And if you do not hear us, we’ll say it a little louder!"

The students crossed the field, accepted their diplomas and tossed their caps to celebrate their achievements. Congratulations, Port Chester Class of 2023.