Elwood-John H. Glenn High School held its 63rd commencement on June 27, kicking off with the excited seniors clad in blue and white processing from the school’s doors to the football field where the families and their future awaited them.
Senior Class President Nicola Palisciano led the Pledge of Allegiance, and the high school’s band, directed by Gabrielle Caviglia, performed a rousing rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Additional musical performances during the evening came from the band, playing selections from “The Greatest Showman,” and the high school’s choir, directed by Brittany Wheeler, performing selections from “Wicked.”
“My message for the Class of 2025 is simple,” outgoing Principal Corey McNamara told them in his welcoming remarks. “Stay true to yourself. We have so many promising individuals sitting here today who have navigated their journey over the past 18 years of life to earn their diploma. They likely have made many mistakes along the way, but they have shared their talents, passion and spirit with us, representing John Glen High School with dignity, grace and a tremendous amount of Elwood pride.”
Noting that this, her first graduating class as superintendent, will always hold a special place in her heart, Superintendent Dr. Gayle Steele cited their kindness, leadership and school spirit as having made an indelible impression upon her
“You truly represent the best of John Glenn High School,” Dr. Steele said. “You infuse our environment with an energy and positivity that sets a refreshing example for every student who walks through the doors of our schools. That kind of leadership and compassion is what makes a community thrive, and you are an enormous part of that. It will be sad to lose you, but I am delighted to be sending this group into the world, because I know you will make a difference.”
Board of Education Vice President Deborah Weiss reminded the seniors of how they walked into the district’s Harley Avenue Primary School a dozen years ago with a simple backpack that held not just supplies but their hopes for their educational journey.
“Year after year, it was filled with new lessons and new friends, and every year, it carried a little more of your knowledge, confidence and heart,” Weiss said. “Tonight, as you sit here in your cap and gown, that backpack is here, too. Now it holds the tools that you need to take the next step – the courage to try new things, the curiosity to keep learning, the kindness and empathy that will make the world a better place. May your backpack always be ready and may your journey ahead be filled with purpose, promise and pride.”
Salutatorian Katherine Moravec talked about change and the idea of pursuing connectivity.
“Rather than allowing yourselves to fall into relentless consumption, spend time with other people,” Moravec said. “Keep an open mind and an open heart to people around you. You will find yourself enriched in ways that you may have never imagined. My personal growth throughout high school has been fueled by the engine of connectivity, and it has completely and utterly changed me as a human being. Connectivity with others is truly the greatest gift you can give to both others and to yourself.”
Palisciano reminded his classmates that each of them has the power to do something great that the world needs, before introducing valedictorian Davin Li.
Despite his numerous accomplishments, Li expressed regret at letting time slip away during high school, and urged the students to live life to the fullest and take advantage of every opportunity.
“Seize the moment and follow your passions,” Li said. “Don’t wait for the perfect opportunity, because the perfect one will never come. Just get started and follow your dreams to the fullest extent. When you go off into the world, find what inspires you and do it wholeheartedly. I simply ask that you savor the moment.”
All Schools President Caroline Weiss took the podium next, extolling the virtues of the trait of empathy, before introducing the final student orator, Class of 2025 graduation speaker Christian Deonarine, who urged his fellow graduates to be themselves.
“In college, you’ll finally be in control of your own life, so use that freedom wisely. Make mistakes, learn about yourself, discover who you really are, make new friends, have confidence in yourself, don’t let others discourage your interests, ignore the negativity and focus on what makes you happy. Be proud of who you are. Be you, and you will attract likeminded people who will support you and encourage you to do the right thing, not the easy thing.”
Diplomas were then handed out to the joyful new graduates, and McNamara bestowed an honorary diploma upon beloved retiring Athletic Director Dave Shanahan. At this point, all that was left in this magical ceremony was the traditional turning of the tassels, before the Class of 2025 hurled their caps to the sky and walked out of the stadium as Knights alumni, ready to celebrate.
Date Added: 7/1/2025