Huntington Graduation Briefs
Senior Marco Lagone introduced salutatorian Dylan Payne at last Friday’s Huntington High School commencement exercises. “Since we became friends way back in second grade, Dylan’s intellectual abilities have never ceased to impress,” Mr. Lagone said. “In sixth grade, Dylan went to private school, but this did not keep us from hanging out together. Ninth grade we reunited in Huntington High School where we both were taking advanced courses. He has undoubtedly been a most supportive friend to me throughout my high school career.”
Mr. Lagone is headed to the University of Texas in Austin to study business and Mr. Payne will pursue pre-medical studies at Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire. “When I encountered academic challenges, I would first look to Dylan for help,” Mr. Lagone told the crowd. “This is not only because he is one of the brightest of my peers, but also because he was always willing to assist. I admire Dylan for his eagerness to offer insight and advice, not just to me but to anyone in need. He genuinely cares about others.”
Leroy Grumman's Salutatory Address
At the 50th Huntington High School commencement on Tuesday, June 20, 1911 at 8:15 p.m., Leroy Randle Grumman gave a salutatory address titled “The Aeroplane” to his classmates in Assembly Hall of the “new” high school building (now the current town hall).
Mr. Grumman would go on to become arguably Huntington’s most famous graduate, founding the Grumman Aircraft Company, which would later play a key role in building planes during World War II and creating the Lunar Escape Module, integral to the program that allowed man to walk on the moon.
Corcoran Recognizes Honored Teachers
Senior Christine Corcoran introduced “honored teachers” and Class of 2009 advisors Camille Tedeschi and Erik Bruckbauer, who were chosen to announce the names of each graduate. “They are both passionate about their jobs and their students,” said Ms. Corcoran, who will begin studies this fall at the University of Delaware. “Their great characters and strong integrity are admired by faculty and students alike, and I am grateful for having had the chance to know them as individuals, as well as a pair. They are becoming the new class advisors for the Class of 2012 next year and we wish them nothing but success in the future.”
Remembering First Huntington Graduates
The Class of 2009 continues the unbroken line of Huntington graduates dating to Friday, July 18, 1862 when Charles H. Baldwin, Ella J. Conlin, Emma F. Downs, James T. McKay, William G. Nicoll and John S. Sherill received the first diplomas issued by the Huntington Union School during a 2 p.m. ceremony that included a valedictory address by Mr. Nicoll.
“We Have Been Privileged”
Class of 2009 salutatorian Dylan Payne has the highest regard for his classmates. “I believe our class has a lot of promise among its diverse, unique, and talented members,” he said during a five minute address. “I am certain that a few of us will change our world for the better, and I will be proud to have known you. We have been privileged enough to have a strong, supportive school, with excellent teachers and classes in every field.”
Mr. Payne is joining his sister, Hannah, Huntington’s 2007 salutatorian at Dartmouth College in the fall. “Do not take the advantages you have been given lightly,” he said last Friday night. “A mind is a terrible thing to waste, and every one of the hundreds of young minds in front of me today has the power to improve the world. You might become the police officer who fights crime, the scientist who develops efficient fuel, or the next senator who fights for progress. Do what you love and feel passionate about. You will garner more respect by doing what you love, than by doing what makes the most money. I’m sure that you will make your loved ones proud in the future, but the most important challenge is to make yourself proud. The only way to accomplish this is by doing something that truly gives you satisfaction.”
Student President Presents Superintendent
Student Government President Kristy Lyons introduced Superintendent John J. Finello. The senior plans to study for an undergraduate degree at Boston College. “Mr. Finello is not only an incredibly kind and considerate person, but he has a great love and appreciation for the Huntington schools as well as the community,” Ms. Lyons said. “He has always had a passion for Huntington, probably because he himself is a Huntington High School alum, as he graduated with the Class of 1968.”
Valedictorian Shares his Thoughts
Valedictorian Chris Lau gave a thoughtful address. “Today, in a world of immense opportunity, of seemingly infinite options and careers, the challenge, to always do what you love, may seem overwhelming,” he said. “However, I am entirely confident that each and every member of this class is fully capable of meeting, and exceeding, this challenge. So no worries parents, we’ll be out of the basement in no time.”
Mr. Lau will pursue a degree in finance at the University of Pennsylvania. One day he might be headed for a career as an attorney. He left classmates with a few departing thoughts.
“Before I go, I would like to thank the individuals who have helped us get this far in our journeys: our families and teachers,” Mr. Lau said. “Over the last four years, you have pushed us, guided us, and supported us. At times, of course, you have frustrated us, yet you have never failed to inspire. You have provided encouragement as we memorized Shakespeare and tried to speak a foreign language. You have cheered us on at sporting events and helped us complete anything from class projects to homecoming floats. And even if we came up short of our goal, you were always there to help us back up. Truly, throughout the years, you have been our foundation. And trust me, it has not gone unnoticed.”
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