Port Chester Public Schools

Port Chester High School Celebrates Class of 2024

Port Chester High School’s Class of 2024 marked the exciting milestone of completing their high school educational journey during the 140th commencement ceremony on June 27.

The ceremony began with a processional to “Pomp and Circumstance” by the high school band and orchestra and performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” by senior Bryan Alexis Ramirez. Principal Luke Sotherden welcomed the guests and honorees and offered encouragement and advice to the graduates as they enter adulthood. In his address, he emphasized the importance of responsibility and impact of daily actions. He also referenced Theodore Roosevelt’s 1910 speech, “The Man in the Arena,” highlighting the significance of perseverance, bravery and leadership in the face of challenges and injustice.

“Be brave and lead,” Sotherden said. “Lead the change that will better the world around us. It will be scary, it will be hard, and you will absolutely question yourself and your decisions along the way. But this fear and doubt will only be the fire that forges you into an implement for change.”

His message concluded with congratulations and best wishes for the future, reminding the graduates that it is better to try and fail than to never try at all. The graduates also heard remarks from senior class co-presidents Brian Joel Alvarado and Matthew Palma, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Aurelia Henriquez, Board of Education President Luigi Russo, salutatorian Damaris Ramirez and valedictorian Orhan Eski.

In his address, Palma recognized the contributions of his classmates, teachers and staff and focused on the themes of change, choice and charity. He concluded his speech by highlighting the resilience of the human spirit, encouraging graduates to persevere through hardships and failures and strive to make a positive impact on the world.

“We persevere through hardships,” Palma said. “You all will fail. That I can promise. But it’s how you deal with that failure which makes who you are. Stand tall. Never give up. As the saying goes, our struggle for us broke through adversity. To the stars. Change the world.”

In his address, Alvarado expressed gratitude to family, friends and faculty for their support and reflected on his high school journey. He discussed his challenges and accomplishments, symbolized by an International Baccalaureate Programme medal, and emphasized the personal significance of success. He concluded by urging the graduates to lead with courage, empathy and respect for their dreams.

“Let us continue to write the poetry of our lives, mindful of the metaphysical threads that weave throughout our existence,” Alvarado said. “And may our collective journey be an ode to the countless potential within each of us.”

In her speech, Dr. Henriquez shared a powerful message rooted in a popular Puerto Rican expression that translates to “forward, onward and never backwards.” The expression embodies resilience, persistence and an unwavering commitment to keep going. She encouraged the graduates to face challenges with courage and to see setbacks as opportunities for growth.

“Have courage and have faith to navigate the storms in life and confront challenges knowing that within the depths of difficulty lies your opportunity for growth and transformation,” Dr. Henriquez said. “It is during these moments of struggle that we discover our true potential and the resilience that resides within us.”

In this speech, Russo addressed the graduating class, emphasizing the concept of moving from one comfort zone to the next throughout life. He encouraged the graduates to challenge themselves and step out of their comfort zones for continuous learning and growth.

In her address, Ramirez – who will pursue a career as a neonatal nurse in the fall – focused on the importance of failure and seeing it as an opportunity for growth and improvement. She emphasized that everyone will fail at some point in various aspects of life, including work, school, friendships and family. She concluded her speech by urging her fellow graduates to look back on their journey with pride and appreciate the achievements that have come from overcoming failures.

“[Our failures] are opportunities,” Ramirez said. “Opportunities to grow, to challenge yourself and to become better than what you once were. The more you have failed, the more opportunities you have. Your failures do not define you, nor do your successes. What you do with your failure and with your successes is what determines the type of person you are.”

In his remarks, Eski – who will study electrical and computer engineering in the fall – reflected on his high school experience and the resilience and transformation of his classmates. He emphasized the importance of appreciating the support from family, friends and educators, and embracing future challenges.

“As we close this chapter, let’s remember the strength we’ve drawn from each other,” Eski said. “Our time at the Port Chester High School has taught us that our collective experiences and friendships are invaluable. This moment isn’t just a farewell. It’s a celebration of our resilience, adaptability and the enduring bonds we’ve forged. While our paths may diverge, the lessons learned and the relationships we’ve built here will stay with us.”

Signifying the conclusion of one chapter and the beginning of another, the students crossed the stage and took hold of their diplomas. After moving their tassels to indicate their graduation, they tossed their caps in celebration.