Long Beach High School marked a momentous occasion on June 12 with its 102nd Annual Commencement Ceremony, honoring the graduating Class of 2025. Held outside on the high school’s Alumni Field, the event brought together students, families, district leaders, and faculty in a heartfelt celebration of achievement, growth, and future promise.
The ceremony began with the traditional processional to “Pomp and Circumstance,” performed by the Graduation Band, followed by a wonderful rendition of the National Anthem by the Graduation Orchestra and Choir.
Long Beach High School Principal Jeffrey Myers welcomed attendees and commended the graduates for a year filled with determination, resilience, and success. Board of Education Vice President Alexis Pace addressed the class with words of inspiration, encouraging students to live their lives in a way that would make both their 8-year-old and 80-year-old selves proud, urging them to stay true to who they are, show up for the people they love, and always remember to have fun.
Valedictorian Daniel Brenner delivered a speech filled with gratitude and encouragement. He thanked his family, friends, and mentors, and reflected on the memories and accomplishments of the past four years. “You all have worked so hard to accomplish so much,” he said, while also urging his classmates to embrace challenges, “Try something hard. Don’t just aim for the lay-up. Focus less on the results and more on the journey, the people, the lessons, the growth.”
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jennifer Gallagher shared heartfelt remarks, expressing how special this graduating class has been to her. “You are brilliant, talented, and generous,” she told the seniors. “The way you support each other and give of yourselves is extraordinary. Keep doing what you’re doing, keep being you.”
Salutatorian LiLin Garfinkel offered words of gratitude and encouragement, reflecting on the joy of the present moment and encouraging her peers to carry that joy with them into the next phase of their lives. “Whether your path is college, trade school, the military, or a new job, go forward with confidence and purpose,” she said.
Senior Class President Noemi Wright fondly recalled the shared experiences that bonded the class and offered her classmates well-wishes for the road ahead.
Following the speeches, each graduate proudly crossed the stage to receive their diploma, marking the culmination of years of dedication and learning.
Student Organization President Riley Barshak then led the ceremonial turning of the tassels, symbolizing the official transition from student to graduate. The celebration concluded with cheers and cap tosses, as the Class of 2025 stepped boldly into the future.
Date Added: 6/16/2025