The Westhampton Beach High School Class of 2022 celebrated an academic milestone as they received their diplomas on June 24 at the school’s 114th commencement exercises.

During the evening ceremony, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carolyn Probst and High School Principal Christopher Herr congratulated the students on their academic, athletic and extracurricular accomplishments and their community service contributions.

Among those who took the podium were valedictorian Gavin Ehlers and salutatorian Madison Quinn. In speaking about the COVID-19 pandemic, Ehlers said, “We faced countless challenges, but now it’s time to take all that we learned and begin to experience our first taste of true independence. There is no need to fear what’s ahead of us.”

Quinn shared what she learned during high school, including how to handle unexpected changes. “No matter what you are faced with,” she said, “I urge you to look at each change or challenge as a surprise and welcome the new possibilities it presents to you.”

Senior class historian James Daniels, who will attend Princeton University, rounded out the celebration by speaking of class memories and achievements. In closing, the symphonic choir entertained with a performance of “We Are All in This Together.”

After accepting their diplomas and tossing their caps, the graduates joined a final procession off the football field toward their next chapter of success.

Date Added: 6/28/2022