Massapequa High School graduates donned new darker blue caps and gowns for the 71st annual commencement exercises on June 18 at Hofstra University’s Mack Arena. It was the culminating moment for more than 460 seniors, who entered the arena to “Pomp and Circumstance” and left with navy blue diplomas folders in hand.
Principal Barbara Lowell congratulated the graduates on reaching a milestone that once felt far away and now signifies their entry into adulthood. The moment represented years of effort, growth, challenge and triumph. She told them that as they look to make their mark on the world, it’s not about control, it’s about contribution.
“The world needs people who recognize that while everybody wants to rule the world, the real work is in serving it,” she said, “in improving it, in making it more just, more kind and more connected.”
Dr. William Brennan declared himself the “proudest superintendent in New York State” because of all of the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 in academics, the arts, leadership and, most recently, athletics with several state and Long Island championships in the spring season. It was a senior class that not only participated in Massapequa traditions, but one that elevated them.
“If there is a defining characteristic it is this – your legacy has never been about individual success,” he told the graduates. “It has always been about what becomes possible when people believe in one another. Because when people challenge one another, support each other and lift one another higher, excellence is no longer an aspiration. It becomes the culture and that is exactly what I witnessed.”
This year’s student speakers included general organization President Emily Shapiro, Class of 2026 President Kyra Florio-Marinello, valedictorian Kathleen Cooney and salutatorian Meghan Walsh.
Emily reflected on how her decision to get involved in student life opened so many doors for her. By stepping out of her comfort zone, it made her time in high school much more memorable and meaningful. Her message to her fellow graduates was that it’s never too late to take a chance, get involved and connect with others.
“Hardships can be beautiful” was the theme of Kyra’s speech. People often see difference as blockades, she noted, rather than realizing everyone wants the same thing – to maximize their life potential and to feel connected.
“Finding common ground amidst our differences is what makes a community strong and it is also what helps people get through the difficult times of life,” she said.
Kathleen reflected on a journal she was once given as a birthday present, which she finished, followed by two more. In flipping through them recently, she realized that most of her writings were about moments that seemed ordinary at the time, but became unforgettable. The journals are filled with the words, kindness and lessons of her family, friends, teachers and all those who have impacted her life.
“For years, I thought my journals were teaching me how to remember my life,” Kathleen said. “What they actually taught me was how to pay attention while I’m living it.”
High school was never about achieving perfection, Meghan explained, but about growth. She reminded her fellow graduates to be true to themselves and recognize their progress instead of chasing an ideal version of themselves, a treacherous game with no finish line.
“As we embark on this next journey, I wish you courage and success, but not at the cost of losing yourself,” she said to the Class of 2026. “May we be confident but humble; ambitious but grounded; driven but not consumed; and kind but strong.”
After diplomas were presented by Ms. Lowell and graduates shook hands with Dr. Brennan and the board of education, they gathered at their seats one last time as a class. Ms. Lowell welcomed them as the newest Chiefs alumni as tassels were turned, caps flew high in the air and loud cheers erupted from the crowd.