On Sunday, June 24, 1956, Massapequa High School held its first ever graduation for about 200 seniors in the auditorium. Flash forward a few generations later, and Massapequa’s 70th class, with 472 students, graduated on Friday, June 20, 2025, at Hofstra University’s Mack Sports and Exhibition Center.
Principal Barbara Lowell, herself a Massapequa graduate, reflected on the similarities and differences between the two classes. Having done extensive research on the first-ever class of Chiefs, she cited the speech of the first principal, Arthur Rohr, who said that those seniors were building the traditions of Massapequa High School.
“I’m very happy to say that 70 years later, the seniors sitting in front of me tonight have fulfilled those traditions, improved upon them and created their own,” Ms. Lowell said. “I’m thankful, as principal, to have gotten to know these students over the years. They have shown me the absolute best that Massapequa has to offer.”
Superintendent Dr. William Brennan thanked the Class of 2025 for all they have brought to the schools over the last 13 years.
“You have modeled perseverance, resilience, empathy and leadership that no rubric on this planet could have captured,” he said. “You’ve shown that education isn’t just about tests and grades, but about courage, connection and growth.”
Graduates marched into the arena in their blue caps and gowns to “Pomp and Circumstance.” Isabella Corigliano sang the national anthem. Medallions were presented for academic excellence in all subject areas. Student speakers included valedictorian Samantha Portz, salutatorian Will Stebner, general organization President Olivia Valoroso and senior class President Jackson Yahner. Ms. Lowell also recognized students who will be going to military academies or joining a branch of the armed forces.
Samantha, who will be attending Amherst College in Massachusetts and joining the Amry ROTC, reflected on what it means to be a Massapequa Chief.
“It’s about embodying the spirit of leadership, resilience and service,” she said. “It’s about being a Chief in every aspect of life, by stepping up to support others, volunteering, lending a hand to a neighbor in need or standing up for what is right, even when it may be difficult.”
Will, who will attend Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, used the messages in his yearbook as inspiration for his address.
“Reading all these kind things made me realize how meaningful these years have been,” he said. “So, whether you’ve seized every moment of high school and never want to leave, or counted the days until today, or had mixed feelings about high school, that’s OK. Just don’t become a stranger to the people who care so much about you.”
Olivia said that although a chapter of their lives is closing, the memories and experiences will be with them forever. Every experience, she added, came with an important lesson.
Jackson reflected on the many talents and feats of the Class of 2025, from the classroom to the stage to the athletic fields.
“When you strive for greatness, you inspire others to do the same,” he said. “That, to me, is the spirit of a Massapequa Chief – the leader who leads by inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.”
Jackson paid tribute to a classmate who could not be there, Connor Kasin, who passed away in November. Before the ceremony, teachers handed out bracelets for all of the graduates to wear in his memory. Ms. Lowell also noted that earlier in the day, Connor’s family was presented with a diploma and yearbook signed by the senior class and teachers from all four schools that he attended.