Mahopac High School celebrated the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 during its commencement ceremony, honoring graduates for their academic achievements, personal growth and contributions to the school community as they prepared to begin the next chapter of their lives.
The ceremony featured remarks from Principal Patrick Keevins, Superintendent of Schools Frank Miele, valedictorian Lucy Hernandez, salutatorian Kevin Behrendt, Senior Class President Leona Ademi and M.O.S.T. Executive Faizaan Ali. Together, their messages encouraged graduates to embrace new opportunities, persevere through challenges and remain true to themselves as they pursue their future goals.
In his remarks, Keevins reflected on the unique connection he shared with the graduating class, having worked with many of the students throughout six of their seven years of secondary education. He encouraged graduates to draw upon the resilience they have developed through challenges, setbacks and personal growth.
“Never forget the resilience that brought you to this moment,” Keevins said. “It is one of your greatest strengths, and it will continue to serve you long after you leave Mahopac High School.”
Behrendt spoke candidly about the uncertainty that often accompanies life after high school, reminding his classmates that they do not need to have every answer right away. He encouraged graduates to remain open to new possibilities, embrace change and focus on living fully rather than becoming consumed by pressure about the future.
Hernandez shared a personal reflection on overcoming self-doubt and finding the confidence to pursue opportunities that once seemed intimidating. As a first-generation graduate, she thanked her family, teachers and friends for helping shape her journey and encouraged her classmates to challenge themselves and embrace growth.
“I encourage you to do things that intimidate you, say the words you would have left unspoken, sit at that new lunch table, and never feel too proud to ask for help,” Hernandez said. “Facing fears, overcoming challenges and doing the hard things will give us the courage to be our truest selves and rise to our potential.”
In one of his final graduation addresses before retiring after a 55-year career in education, Superintendent Miele reflected on his own journey as a Mahopac graduate and encouraged students to pursue their goals with passion, perseverance and gratitude for those who helped them along the way.
“You can’t measure someone’s heart,” Miele said. “You can’t measure someone’s determination. So don’t let anyone tell you what you can’t do, and what you can’t achieve. Dream a little. Then go work for it.”
Ademi encouraged her classmates to appreciate the everyday moments that shaped their high school experience and to use their talents in ways that positively impact others. Ali challenged graduates to fully commit themselves to their future pursuits, reminding them that growth often comes from taking risks and embracing uncertainty.
Following the presentation of diplomas, Keevins asked graduates to stand and move their tassels to the left side of their caps, signifying that they are now graduates of Mahopac High School, closing one chapter of their educational journey and beginning another. Surrounded by family members, friends, teachers and staff, the graduates celebrated an evening that honored their achievements while looking ahead to the opportunities that await them.
