On the evening of June 27, the Robert Druckenmiller Football Field was filled with pride, reflection and excitement as the Hauppauge High School Class of 2025 donned their blue caps and gowns and processed in to the sounds of “Pomp and Circumstance,” performed by the Hauppauge High School chamber orchestra. Family, friends, faculty and special guests gathered to celebrate the achievements and bright futures of this year’s graduates.
The ceremony commenced with Class Treasurers Kaitlyn Weinstein and Hailey Wilcox and Class Secretaries Nicole Esposito and Emily Prizgint leading the Pledge of Allegiance. The Hauppauge chamber choir followed with a moving rendition of the national anthem.
Class President Carissa Postilio delivered a spirited welcome, encouraging her classmates to embrace their futures with courage. “Don’t be afraid to fail. Because we don’t get to rewind or replay these years, this is our one chance to live boldly, to chase our dreams,” she told her fellow graduates.
Senior Class Vice President Delilah Morales, along with Public Relations Officers Emma Jensen and Sophia Mileo, announced the Class of 2025’s gift: new equipment for Senior Field Day and a donation to support students in need.
Principal Joe Wieckhorst, addressing his first graduating class as principal, shared touching remarks about the unique bond he shares with the Class of 2025. “I have met with all of you at least once this year, either by visiting your classes, planning events or speeches, or just catching up with you randomly in the hallway,” Mr. Wieckhorst said. “I can honestly say this class has left a profound impact and impression on me.” He then encouraged students to never stop learning and listening to advice.
PTSA President Julie Misciagna congratulated the class and offered words of encouragement, “Remember to be kind. Stay curious. And always, always, believe in yourselves. Because we believe in you.”
Board of Education President Dave Barshay and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Donald Murphy spoke jointly, reading reflections from students and highlighting the emotional complexity of the day. They acknowledged the mix of joy, ache and nostalgia as students close one chapter and step into the next. Mr. Barshay closed with a message to parents, “Today you haven’t lost a child, you’ve raised someone brave enough to walk forward and wise enough to remember that you are their home.”
Continuing a cherished tradition, senior Sofia Dessart then delivered the graduation poem, titled “Dear Graduation.”
Salutatorian Ayaan Shah reflected on the memories shared and the importance of welcoming what lies ahead. “To every face who has lit these halls, to the conversations we shared and to all the moments we spent together, thank you for everything,” Ayaan said. “I implore all of you to embrace the change, face the challenge.”
In her speech, Valedictorian Sara Conquet emphasized that at the end of the day, success isn’t defined by grades or academic achievements, but by the kind of person you are and the impact you have on others. “Be a good person, be an interesting person, care about things and prove that you care about them and remember to have a little bit of fun along the way,” Sara said.
This year’s Distinguished Alumnus honor was awarded to Tom “Druck” Druckenmiller, social studies teacher, coach and Class of 1988 graduate. He urged the students to “work hard, be nice, listen and develop and nurture relationships with others.”
In a climactic conclusion to the event, each senior was called to the stage to receive their diploma. With guidance from Dr. Murphy and Mr. Barshay, graduates moved their tassels from right to left, officially marking the transition from students to alumni. The ceremony ended with an exciting cap toss into the evening sky as the Class of 2025 recessed to the cheers of their loved ones.
