Manhasset HS Class Of 2018 Graduates

As the traditional ring of the bell signaled the playing of the “Procession of the Meistersingers” and “Pomp and Circumstance,” both performed by the school’s symphonic orchestra, the Manhasset High School Class of 2018 proudly marched out of the building to the applause of proud family and friends during the school’s 98th commencement ceremony.

“Today, as we turn the page on our four years here at Manhasset, we can look back and be thankful for the place we call home,” said graduate Madeline Adair Clinton, who gave the welcoming student address. “This special school has given us the opportunity to find ourselves and develop our passions, and has prepared us for the next chapter.”

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Vincent Butera praised the class for not only their many outstanding academic, artistic and athletic achievements, but also their philanthropic efforts to make the world a better place through volunteer work and fundraising efforts.

“The truth is, the selflessness on display in this class is a privilege to witness,” said Dr. Butera. “And it’s a privilege to be the superintendent here in Manhasset. Graduates, you will no doubt achieve great things in the years ahead, but may kindness and doing good things for others be your legacy. From what I have seen, it certainly will.”

Salutatorian Alex Mazer thanked the parents and siblings and praised the faculty, administration and support staff for developing high standards of excellence for students to meet. He called the Class of 2018 “a tremendously talented group of students whom I am incredibly honored to be able to stand before and address today.” He added, “We have created an atmosphere in which commitment and dedication have become the norm.”

Valedictorian Ryan Chung spoke about how the class’s diversity is their strength, and how every student should find their voice in the world and cherish the friendships and collaboration that brought them to this day. “We celebrate progress, instead of being obsessed with the next goal,” said Ryan. “Achievements, no matter how small, are a sign that we are moving forward. On a day like today, that is exceptional. Today we finally celebrate what we started as ninth-graders and worked so hard for throughout the past few years.”

Board of Education President Regina Rule accepted the Class of 2018 gift from class treasurer Whitney Martin and class adviser Marcella Sepe: 12 blue and gold signs that will beautify the interior of Manhasset Secondary School. Silver M President Richard Bennett announced this year’s inductees into the Silver M Society, and the Senior Class Vocalists performed an enlightening rendition of “Seasons of Love” from Broadway’s “Rent.” Additionally, this year’s retirees were honored, including Shelter Rock School Principal Robert Gezik.

Principal Dr. Dean Schlanger praised the effort, talent and professionalism exhibited by the Class of 2018. “Being your principal has been a personal pleasure for me,” he said. “I sincerely wish you good luck, years of prosperity and an abundance of happiness along your journey in life. Many wonderful opportunities lie ahead of you. You will seize those opportunities and make this world a better place along the way.”

Once Dr. Schlanger confirmed the Class of 2018, he, Dr. Butera, Rule and fellow board members awarded the diplomas and congratulated the graduates. Then, in unison, tassels were turned and caps were hoisted into the air, as members of the Class of 2018 culminated their educational careers and took pride in all that they had accomplished, with an eye toward even greater things to come.

Story, Photos courtesy of the Manhasset Public Schools

• Photo caption 1: The Manhasset High School Class of 2018 celebrates!
  
• Photo caption 2: Board of Education President Regina Rule, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Vincent Butera and Manhasset High School Principal Dr. Dean Schlanger look on with pride for the Class of 2018.
• Photo caption 3: Silver M President Richard Bennett announced this year’s inductees into the Silver M Society.
• Photo caption 4: Valedictorian Ryan Chung spoke about how the class’s diversity is their strength.
• Photo caption 5: Salutatorian Alex Mazer is congratulated by Board of Education Trustee Christine Monterosso.
• Photo caption 6: The traditional ring of the bell signaled the start of Manhasset High School’s 98th commencement ceremony.