Wantagh grads start a new chapter

Hats were flying high after the 276 seniors at Wantagh High School were officially declared graduates on June 25.

Andrew Hackmack/Herald

Vasu Joshi, center, and his fellow Wantagh High School graduates made their way to the football field for last Thursday evening’s ceremony.

Andrew Hackmack/Herald

• 
• 

Class of 2015

Wantagh High School graduates' list

See a photo gallery from graduation here. 

The 276 graduates of Wantagh High School glowed with joy as they received their diplomas last Thursday night, signifying their hard work over the past four years. 

After spending countless hours in the classroom, on the sports field, in the band room or on the stage, the graduates of Wantagh High will now venture out into the real world. Hundreds of friends and family members attended the ceremony to commemorate the graduates’ accomplishments. Several speakers, including the school’s principal and the district superintendent, as well as a U.S. senator, gave the graduates words of advice before they venture onward.

Principal Carolyn Breivogel told them, “Your character and name are the most important things.” She continued, “Work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen.”

Maureen Goldberg, the superintendent of schools, told the students to focus on four things: cherishing family, cherishing friends, remembering how blessed their lives are, and having a clear and open mind. “I hope Wantagh has filled you with great memories,” she said. “I hope your futures exceed your expectations.”

Sen. Chuck Schumer told the graduates to take much from their high school experience as they move forward. “Wantagh is not only one of the best high schools on Long Island, but in the state,” he said.

Valedictorian Julia Laibach proclaimed to her classmates that they control their own destiny. “Graduation is like the top of a wave,” she said. “We are ready to ride it to the horizon.”

Like her fellow graduates, Laibach will look to ride this wave as she heads to Bucknell University, in Lewisburg, Pa., in the fall, where she plans to major in biology and pre-medicine.

Before the graduates received their diplomas, senior class co-presidents John Casella and Zachary Diaks had a chance to address their classmates. Casella reminisced about the many great events and experiences they had, including prom the night before. Diaks urged his classmates to be good role models for others as they move forward in the world.

Salutatorian Julia Lantier told them, “Its only the beginning. The opportunities are endless, the end is unclear.”