Syosset HS celebrates the Class of 2022

During the 64^th Syosset High School Annual Commencement, held on June 22 at Hofstra University, over 590 seniors stepped up to the podium and accepted their high school diplomas.

Students marched into the Davis S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex as “Pomp and Circumstance” played in the backgroud, after which the senior members of The Adelettes performed a stunning rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

This year’s class was highlighted with a U.S. Presidential Scholar, 12 National Merit Finalists, 46 National Merit Commended students; as well as four Regeneron Talent Search Scholars and two Finalists.

Syosset High School Assistant Principal, David Steinberg, delivered the welcoming remarks, commending the students on their success throughout their four years at the high school. “You will be leaving Syosset High School with a foundation of knowledge that has well prepared you for the future,” he remarked. “This will provide you with a repository of cherished memories that you will draw upon for the rest of your life.”

Interim Deputy Superintendent Mr. Charlie Cardillo delivered an address from Superintendent Dr. Thomas Rogers, who was unable to attend the ceremony. In his prepared remarks, Dr. Rogers commented on the strength shown by the students throughout the pandemic. “No one could have possibly predicted your success given all of the headwinds you faced for most of your high school career,” he wrote to the students, “…you have shown resilience and perseverance far beyond any expectations we might have had.”

Board of Education President Tracy Frankel then addressed the graduates. “You have lived and learned and achieved through unthinkable times in the last few years,” she remarked. “But you did more than just get through it. You made the choice to make the best of the hand that you were dealt.” Board of Education Vice President Rob Gershon and Board Trustees Susan Falkove and Shany Park also delivered inspirational messages to the students.

Class of 2022 Student Government President Caroline Zhu and Senior Class President Christopher Zandieh presented the class gift, a fountain for the redesigned courtyard at the high school. And while addressing the audience, Class Speaker Chloe Zelenitz remarked on the perseverance of the class throughout the challenges of the pandemic and stated “We are the teens who have the power to take the lessons we’ve learned throughout this pandemic and have an impact on a larger scale.”

The Salutatorian of the Class of 2022, David Wang, addressed the audience and spoke about the importance of happiness, and Valedictorian Sabrina Chen reflected on the four distinct years of high school and the unique experiences the classmates shared.

The recipient of the Elisabeth T. Babcock Award, the U.S. Presidential Scholar, the National Merit Finalists, National Merit Commended students, and Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholars and Finalists were recognized during the ceremony. Also honored were students choosing to serve our country.

The commencement culminated with each student receiving their diploma and the traditional cap toss.