The Briarcliff High School class of 2025 graduated last night, in an emotional ceremony, full of heartfelt speeches and gratitude towards everyone in the Briarcliff community. The commencement ceremony began with the 2025-2026 Student Government Co-Presidents, Allison Gordon and Saranda Ivesaj, who introduced the class of 2025. Seniors and faculty marched down the steps in the Academic procession, to the tune of “Pomp and Circumstance,” performed by the high school band, with director Devon Toland. After the Star-Spangled Banner, also performed by the band, this year’s Student Government co-presidents, Brady Lofaro and Drew Packer, welcomed the attendees. Principal Diana Blank gave a speech. The following is an excerpt from her speech:
“In a world that can feel fast and sometimes uncertain, you, the Class of 2025, has done something remarkable. Whether you started in Pocantico or Briarcliff, you’ve woven yourselves into something cohesive, something whole. You’ve shown up for each other. You’ve made space for laughter and connection. In this small school, you’ve discovered something big—how deeply it matters to be part of a community that cares.
You will be the first to graduate from a reimagined Briarcliff High School. You’ve walked through construction zones, shifting schedules, and a new landscape of learning—and you’ve done it with patience, humor and an openness to change. And now, after four years of growth, you’ve helped turn this building, this campus, into something more than a school. You’ve made it our home. What makes this place most special is the people. Over and over again, when I’ve asked what you love most about Briarcliff, your answers came down to one thing: connection. You’ve talked about the way teachers know you—even the ones you’ve never had in class. How they show up not only in the classroom but on the field, at concerts, backstage, in the hallways—guiding, encouraging, pushing you to do better, not just academically, but as human beings.
You’ve spoken of teachers who challenged you to become better writers, clearer thinkers, deeper learners—doing it all with compassion. You’ve known you could knock on any door and be met with kindness and support. That’s not an accident. That’s the culture you’ve helped strengthen with your presence and your trust. You’ve also spoken of the closeness among your classmates. You know each other’s names, and each other’s stories. You’ve celebrated together, struggled together, and grown together. What you’ve built here – relationships with teachers, coaches, counselors, classmates, teammates, and mentors—is powerful. And it’s rare. I hope you know how lucky you are, and how lucky we’ve been to have you here with us.”
Principal Bank’s speech was followed by speeches by Salutatorians Sophie Tanios and Sage Willey and Valedictorian Riya Raina. Math teacher Kevin Courtney was selected as the guest speaker. Here is an excerpt from his speech:
“I want to talk about something just as important as your achievements: living in the moment.
We’re always looking ahead. “I can’t wait for summer.” “I can’t wait for college.” But in that rush, we miss the now. Time won’t slow down—but you can. And you should.
Look around tonight—your friends, your teachers, your families. Some are teary-eyed, some waving their arms to get your attention, and others holding up their phones trying to get the perfect shot. This moment is worth remembering—not just because of the caps and gowns, but because you made it. Pause. Breathe. And take it all in.
Life is a collection of these moments. And they go fast. Savor them.
Wherever your journey takes you—whether it’s the school you’ve long dreamed of, or a path newly chosen—approach it with an open heart and mind. You may be surprised by the discoveries you make and the person you grow into along the way.
And along the way? Stay open to the unexpected.
In a world full of technology and nonstop notifications, it’s easy to overlook the opportunities right in front of you. Some of the best moments—and sometimes the biggest breaks—come from simply being curious and open to new experiences.
So, whether you’re at Bobo’s waiting for your acai bowl or sitting in a college common room, don’t just scroll through your phone—look around. Notice what’s happening. Be ready to engage with the world right in front of you.
You are capable, resilient, and ready. Stay present. Embrace the unexpected. Trust the journey. And above all, nurture the relationships that matter most.”
Following Mr. Courtney’s speech, Superintendent Dr. Jim Kaishian addressed the crowd.
He spoke about the retirees and invited them to the stage.
“To each of our retirees—thank you for the example you’ve set and the lives you’ve touched,” he said. “You’ve left your mark on this school and on generations of students and colleagues. We wish you all the best in the years ahead.”
He then addressed the seniors. Here is an excerpt from his speech:
“Tonight is about more than marking the end of high school. It is a celebration of growth, achievement, community, and the extraordinary people these young adults have become—and are still becoming. I am of the belief that there are but two things that shape us most: our experiences and our aspirations. That idea feels especially fitting tonight. Because, as you’ve just heard from your classmates…what a collection of experiences you’ve had. From closed giant slides and untimely ankle sprains to pandemic-era learning, hybrid schedules, construction zones, and shifting classrooms—you’ve navigated it all with resilience, humor, and grace. You’ve lived through disruption and change, and through it all, you kept moving forward.
These experiences—both the planned and the unexpected—have made you stronger. They’ve helped you stay open to possibility. They’ve shaped you, yes—but they don’t fully define you.
What defines you even more is who you aspire to be.
It is never too early—or too late—to dream. To imagine a better version of yourself. And then to start becoming it—because let’s face it, we’re all living under some version of a countdown clock, and not everything in life comes with a reset button.
Let your experiences ground you. Let your aspirations guide you. And when things don’t go as planned—and they won’t—remember this: You’ve already proven you know how to pivot. You know how to rebuild. You know how to lead with joy and empathy, and you know how to rise with purpose.
We are proud of who you are. And we are just as proud of who you are becoming. Congratulations to the Class of 2025!”
Finally, it was time to present the seniors with their diplomas. Class of 2025 President Mohamed Eltahawy and Vice President Rishab Rao recited students’ names, as they walked up to receive their diplomas.
Ms. Blank presented the class of 2025, and the event ended with the traditional tossing of the caps in the air.
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