Webutuck Class of ‘22: Graduates inspired to show strength and give thanks

WEBUTUCK — Before embarking on the next stage of their journey, the Webutuck Class of 2022 was inspired to think about how to effectively bring change into the world and thank those who made their achievements possible at their graduation ceremony on Friday, June 24.

Wearing their green and white gowns, the graduates came marching onto the soccer field behind Webutuck High School (WHS) for the ceremony at 6:30 p.m.

Following the Pledge of Allegiance and a performance of “The Stars-Spangled Banner” by graduate Kaitlyn Rowe, Superintendent of Schools Raymond Castellani welcomed everyone to the ceremony.

Offering tips for how they can be effective “change-makers,” Castellani said this year’s class was not only graduating from high school but was also graduating to become “ambassadors of change to make this world a better place.”

As they embarked into a world that’s grown more complex, challenging and demanding, he encouraged the graduates to ask themselves if they are ready for the daunting task, adding he had no doubts they’d find the answer.

Delivering her final graduation speech as principal of WHS, Katy McEnroe marveled at the graduates’ strength. She encouraged them to “go and show the world your strengths and tenacity to conquer.”

Webutuck Class of 2022 President and valedictorian Carrissa Whitehead announced her the gift her class was giving that year was to help the Webutuck Class of 2023 by donating the remainder of its account into the succeeding class’s account.

Delivering the ceremony’s commencement address, WHS teacher Thomas Monteverde said, “Today is the commemoration of your efforts and the efforts of those who love you.”

After introducing this year’s salutatorian Justin Carman, McEnroe announced that Carman had asked for his speech to be read by fellow graduate Kennedy Doran.

Through Doran, Carman spoke of gratitude to staff, students, administrators and community for their support and encouragement, and praised his class for being proactive, resilient and academically gifted.

Returning to the podium for her valedictorian speech, Whitehead gave her heartfelt thanks to all at Webutuck for their encouragement.

“No matter how long they’ve known us, they have been there for us since the beginning,” she said of its staff.

As well as thanking her family and her classmates’ families for their love and support, Whitehead said her fellow graduates should thank themselves and remember that no matter what they endure, one thing remains: “We are and will always be the Webutuck Class of 2022.”

Once everyone had received their diploma, Whitehead invited the graduates to rise and shift their tassels to the left side of their caps, signifying their status as Webutuck graduates.