Daily Item Graduation 2024_compressed

THAT’S
A WRAP
2024
GRADUATION

2 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP GRADUATION 2024
BISHOP FENWICK
BENJAMIN PIERCE
PEABODY — Thursday afternoon’s
clouds parted and the sun
shone down on Bishop Fenwick’s
Donaldson Field as the high school
celebrated its graduating class.
The 108 graduates marched onto
the turf to their seats as a band
composed of both alumni and current
students played “Pomp and
Circumstance.”
After an invocation by Fr. Michele
Benetti, Class President Helene
Phelan took to the podium. Phelan
thanked all of Fenwick’s staff, from
administration to facilities. She
reminded her fellow graduates to
be thankful for the people in their
lives who helped them reach this
milestone.
“Let’s have a grateful graduation,
Fenwick,” Phelan said. “We’ve come
a long way, and let’s not forget to
take a step back and remember the
people who got us here.”
Salutatorian James Missett described
the mixed emotions the
commencement gave him. He said
that while he is eager for the next
chapter of his life, he knows he will
miss his high-school experience.
“On one hand, it’s sad to move on
from a place where we have spent
the past four years, but at the same
time, it’s time to leave and we can
feel happy about what we have accomplished,”
Missett said.
Following a rendition of Billy Joel’s
“Vienna” by the Fenwick Concert
Choir, the John J. Meehan Service
Award and Bishop Benedict
Joseph Fenwick Awards were presented.
Teacher Shelley Schmeck
received the Meehan Service Award
for her exemplary service to Bishop
Fenwick. Phelan and fellow graduate
Luke Connolly were presented
with the Fenwick Awards for being
good examples of the virtues the
school represents.
Valedictorian Cecilia Kay then
took the stage to address her peers.
Kay took the opportunity to recognize
and thank her many family
members in attendance. She also
thanked Fenwick teachers and
staff by telling anecdotes about her
fondest memories of them.
“Mr. (David) Dugan, you taught
me the importance of community
with your constant involvement
in the lives of the students… Your
loyalty to the dress code is unwavering,
yet very frustrating,” Kay
joked. “Don’t worry, I promise I am
not wearing a hoodie under this
gown.”
Kay alluded to her relationship
with God on multiple occasions,
and credited Bishop Fenwick with
solidifying her religious beliefs. She
named the COVID-19 pandemic
and the MIAA disciplinary sanctions
on the school as challenges
her class persevered through.
Each student then took to the
stage to receive their diplomas, but
they were also given something
else. As a Fenwick tradition, every
graduate takes a sunflower to
honor St. Julie Billiart, the founder
of the Sisters of Notre Dame de
Namur.
“St. Julie encouraged her sisters
to be always turned toward the
good God, just as the sunflower
turns toward the sun,” the commencement’s
pamphlet reads.
Once Dugan gave his final address
to the graduates, which centered
around gratitude, familiar
routines and far-off realities, and
promise, the seniors gathered in a
circle and joyfully threw their caps.
John Kennedy III runs off the stage after receiving his diploma.
Elizabeth Swanson lets out a yell after receiving her diploma.

GRADUATION 2024 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP 3
BISHOP FENWICK
NORTH SHORE
CHAMBER SCHOLARS
BISHOP
FENWICK
HIGH SCHOOL
Cecilia Kay,
James Missett,
Lacey Murphy,
Helene Phelan,
Flynn Plowman
Caps fly into the air, marking the end of Bishop Fenwick’s commencement ceremony.
STAFF PHOTOS | SPENSER HASAK
CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2024!
FAITH. FAMILY. FENWICK.

4 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP GRADUATION 2024
LYNN TECH
NORTH SHORE
CHAMBER SCHOLARS
LYNN
VOCATIONAL
TECHNICAL
INSTITUTE
Ryan Aguilar,
Fernanda Aguirre Gonzalez,
Matthew Charleau,
Alans Cordova Debora,
Esteban Cubides Ramirez,
Triet Doan,
Fernanda Lopez,
Jolett Majano Licona,
Astrid Marroquin Chavez,
Myriam-Victoria Meloncourt,
Oluwademilade Okusaya,
Hector Perez Gonzalez,
Tin Fi Sophal
Saydy De Leon Lopez is all smiles as she walks off stage with her diploma.
STAFF PHOTOS | SPENSER HASAK
AUTO BODY & SALES
“We Make Friends By Accident”
781-598-8959 • 174 Broad Street Lynn
olympicabs.com
2024

GRADUATION 2024 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP 5
LYNN TECH
VIVIAN MANÇELLARI
LYNN — The friends and family
of 270 graduating students at Lynn
Tech celebrated their commencement
at a ceremony at Manning
Field on Monday afternoon.
For some of the students, it was
“a very bittersweet feeling,” which
was how Amaya Williams described
what she experiencing emotionally
as she lined up for the ceremony.
“I’ll never see half of these people
again, but I’m also happy because
I’m moving on with my life,” Williams
said.
With Salutatorian Ryan Aguilar
serving as master of ceremonies,
the speakers congratulated
the graduating students on their
achievements.
“I would like to begin by acknowledging
those of you who spent five
years with us,” Principal Fred Gallo
said, referring to the discovery
class that started as eighth graders
at Lynn Tech. “Here you are five
years later as our first discovery
students to graduate as seniors.”
The ceremony’s commencement
speaker was Jae Holland, a member
of Lynn Tech’s Class of 1999
who is the director of fan services
and entertainment for the Boston
Red Sox.
Holland reminded the students
about the importance of networking
in his speech and encouraged them
to never give up on their dreams.
“Everything I have done in my
adult life has come through or by
way of serendipity,” Holland said.
Right before the diplomas were
handed out, Holland advised all
of the graduating students to give
back to the school’s future graduating
classes. Then, he led by example
and surprised all of them by giving
each of the graduating students
two tickets for a Red Sox game on
Monday, June 24.
Lynn Tech seniors line up before heading out on to Manning Field for their commencement
ceremony.
Kinglsey Ucheigwe celebrates
receiving his diploma.

6 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP GRADUATION 2024
LYNN ENGLISH
SOPHIA HARRIS
LYNN — Lynn English High
School celebrated its 505 graduates
this year at its commencement ceremony
on Friday.
Class Vice President Carliana
Mejia Ortiz gave the Class of 2024
advice about courage and resilience
as the graduates open the next
chapter of their lives.
In her speech, Mejia Ortiz used
lyrics from songs by rapper J. Cole,
such as “Love Yourz,” to advise students
to take care of themselves after
they graduate.
“People are drawn to those who
are genuine,” Mejia Ortiz said,
quoting J. Cole.
Mejia Ortiz also said that happiness
and family are some of the
most important aspects of life, and
again used J. Cole’s lyrics to emphasize
that having money alone is
not enough.
Commencement speaker George
Wilcox, a member of Lynn English’s
Class of 1982, advised the
graduates to remember where they
came from and the lessons they
have learned throughout their academic
journey.
He encouraged them to overcome
obstacles through empowerment,
resilience, and personal growth
while embracing their true identity
and prioritizing self-awareness.
Wilcox said graduates should
celebrate their unique qualities
during all stages of their lives.
He also offered the some financial
advice.
“If you spend just $5 a day on
Starbucks coffee, after 20 years,
you’ll spend more than $36,000,
and that money is gone,” Wilcox
said. “If instead, you took that $5
and invested into Starbucks stock,
your investment would be worth
$135,000.”
Wilcox emphasized the importance
of listening to people and,
like Mejia Ortiz, said it is important
to be genuinely interested in
others and what they have to teach.
George Alfaro, who graduated
from Lynn English last year, said
he attended the commencement
ceremony to support all of his
friends who were graduating.
“It’s a big step into the new world,”
he said.
Raymiel Gonzalez, who attended
to support his sister as she graduated,
said that he was “so proud” of
her.
He added that the 2-year-old girl
he was holding was “proud of her
auntie.”
STAFF PHOTOS | SPENSER HASAK
Lynn English seniors turn their tassels and officially become
graduates.
Valeri Sarai Santos Arana waves to the crowd after receiving her
diploma.
Congratulations to all
the 2024 Graduates
Wishing you a Happy and Healthy Future

GRADUATION 2024 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP 7
LYNN ENGLISH
NORTH SHORE
CHAMBER SCHOLARS
LYNN ENGLISH
HIGH SCHOOL
Fadilat Oluwatosin Amisu,
Joselyn Dayani Armas Macario,
Skylar Eden Tiffany Beauchamp,
Steven Briones Torres,
Janice Cabral Martinez,
Norahvady Kaly Chan,
Andrea Coronado Perez,
Alyssa Grace DeMayo,
Adam El Qanoun,
Nevaeh Elise Faison,
Mikayla Rose Ferraro,
Bezajia Atelefac Forchap,
Tanvir Ahmed Haque,
Casey Kushta,
Zainab Olufunmilayo Lawal,
Nina Ly, Carliana Mejia Ortiz,
Javier Patricio Santo,
Elijah Le Phommachanh,
Nairine DeJesus Rodrigues Da Silva,
Alexa Sanchez,
Thalia Genghya Srey-Soeuth,
Axel Alexander Velasquez,
Rachel Alexandra Villanueva Martinez,
Anh Nguyen Hoang Vuong
Lynn English graduates walk to the far side of Manning Field before throwing their caps
in the air.
The Lynn English Concert Choir and Chorus sings the National Anthem during the
commencement ceremony.
Cover: Class of 2024 President and Valedictorian Javier Patricio Santo throws up his hands as he
walks across the stage to receive his diploma.
CLASS OF 2024!
978-462-3106 • institutionforsavings.com
Member FDIC | Member DIF | Equal Housing Lender

8 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP GRADUATION 2024
LYNN CLASSICAL
NORTH SHORE
CHAMBER SCHOLARS
STAFF PHOTO | SPENSER HASAK
Gillianny Ramirez’s friends cause her to burst out laughing as she stands in line to receive her
diploma.
LYNN CLASSICAL
HIGH SCHOOL
Wandelin Aquino Jr.,
Tyler Bobbitt, Rachel Dana,
Jihane El Gaurroudi,
Kiana Hong, Ashley Lazo,
Brandon Lor, Andy Ly,
Dominik Mazariegos,
Katy Mendez Zacarias,
Isabella Pha, Jayden Polonsky,
Michael Raithel,
Javier Rivera-Sauceda,
Christofer Romero,
Sandra Tang
Class of ,
Jack Bauer sends his
congratulations.
(If you need to, Google it; great show.)
BEVERLY | NORTH READING| PLAISTOW, N.H.
moynihanlumber.com

GRADUATION 2024 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP 9
LYNN CLASSICAL
SIDNEE SHORT
LYNN — Manning Field was filled
with pride and dark green robes on
Monday morning as Lynn Classical
High School celebrated the graduation
of 342 students in the Class of 2024.
Entertainment for the ceremony
included the Lynn Classical Band’s
performance of “Luminol,” the Concert
Choir’s performance of “Hallelujah,”
and the Dance Team’s performance of
a ribbon dance to the popular Harry
Styles song “Sign of the Times.”
Salutatorian Jayden Polonsky spoke
to his friends, family, teachers, and
peers in the audience, thanking them
for being by his side throughout the
years.
“You have all made an impact on me
and left a long-lasting impression of
what an educator should be,” Polonsky
said, singling out a few teachers who
influenced him. “Were it not for you, I
would not have been able to navigate
myself through school so smoothly.
You all inspired me to strive for greater
heights.”
Polonsky told his fellow graduates to
never be afraid to try new things and
said they should be confident in themselves
as they do so.
Valedictorian Andy Ly spoke to his
fellow graduates as well, telling them
that while life might get harder once
they have grasped their diplomas,
they will open a world of possibilities.
“My glorious Class of 2024, here we
go,” Ly said. “Today, there is nobody
I am more proud of. There is nobody
more triumphant today than you.
Bask in your glory, shimmer in victory.
You took down 13 years of education.
You earned your spot in society. Punch
your ticket to this beautiful world to
celebrate.”
He encouraged the graduates to
make as many memories as they can
in the moment and never pass up opportunities
in the future.
“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is
a mystery, but today is a gift. That is
why it is called the present,” Ly said.
“That was from Master Oogway in
‘Kung Fu Panda.’”
Ly introduced the commencement
speaker, Erik Muschette, who graduated
from Lynn Classical in 2004. Muschette
started his own sales agency,
Asset Insurance Agency, in 2017. The
agency is now a $22 million operation
headquartered in Peabody, with staff
throughout the United States and an
international presence in North Macedonia
and Brazil.
“20 years ago, I sat in these exact
seats listening to my commencement
speaker. I remember it was a time of
extreme uncertainty. I was 18 years
old, heading into a world where I had
previously been protected and sheltered
by my parents,” Muschette said.
“Two decades later, I still don’t have all
the answers, but with the amount of
wisdom that has amassed since graduating
high school, I felt I’d be doing
a disservice if I didn’t mention a few
things.”
Muschette encouraged members
of the graduating class to always be
themselves and continue to improve
each and every day.
“I hope you always continue to focus
on becoming better people, giving
back when you can, and staying true
to yourself when it often feels like the
world wants you to be something else,”
Muschette said. “After all, the qualities
you each possess are what make you
individuals. That uniqueness is what
will set you apart in this world.”
Muschette told the graduates that
he has come in contact with multiple
successful people in his life, and none
of them have spent their time worrying
about what others think of them.
The stadium cheered as the graduates
said their final goodbyes to Lynn
Classical and looked toward the future.
Congratulations,
2024!
24
class of ions,
Your future
starts here.

10 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP GRADUATION 2024
ST. MARY’S
SOPHIA HARRIS
LYNN — St. Mary’s High School
celebrated the graduation of 113 students
at its commencement ceremony
on Thursday.
Head of School Dr. John Dolan said
he was amazed by the courage and
academic leadership shown by the
Class of 2024.
“For the first time in the history
of St. Mary’s, this is the group who
had a higher SAT average than the
state’s regional SAT average,” Dr.
Dolan said.
He added that the graduating
class also achieved AP Silver status,
meaning it had the second-highest
pass rate for AP exams in the county.
“This is the most academically
muscular class we have ever had,”
Dr. Dolan said.
Dr. Dolan noted that members
of the Class of 2024 did not have a
chance to celebrate their eighthgrade
graduation because of the
COVID-19 pandemic, so this year
was especially important to them.
He said the students and their
families showed courage in coming
to Saint Mary’s in the midst of the
pandemic because the school was the
only Catholic school on the North
Shore to welcome the Class of 2024
fully in person.
Dr. Dolan admitted that he was initially
concerned about the day’s forecast,
but he said the clear and nearly
80-degree weather proved that “the
STAFF PHOTOS | EMMA FRINGUELLI
A graduate’s cap references
“Finding Nemo” with the quote
“See ya later dudes.”
Holy Mother sent us a message.”
Valedictorian Nicole Hamel’s
speech detailed her love of God and
how her relationship with God was
strengthened through the teachings
of the campus ministry.
“It is through my relationship with
God that I’ve learned how necessary
self-love is. I know we all have such
different experiences, and that’s
what’s so beautiful about this life.
But when you get down on yourself,
fi n d a n y t h i n g, s o m e t h i n g, a n y t h i n g
that makes you love you again,”
Hamel said. “Our lives are about to
change forever, and I’m sure all of us
are going through the same nervous
feelings about making new friends
or living up to expectations. Fall so
deeply in love with who you are and
who you want to be that you have no
choice but to be proud of every accomplishment
you make, no matter
how small.”
Hamel will be attending Sacred
Heart University in the fall.
Salutatorian Colby Kelly, who will
be attending Stonehill College in the
fall, spoke about growing up in the
midst of the pandemic, and the perils
and advancements of ChatGPT.
His speech garnered many laughs
from audience members, and he
closed by giving the graduates advice.
“As long as you continue to put in
the work and never quit, you will
accomplish what you set your mind
to,” Kelly said. “I mean, if we can survive
following Mr. Ridley’s rules and
dress code, we can do pretty much
anything, right?”
Heidi Guarino gave the parent-tribute
speech as her son, Jacob
Guarino, was graduating this year.
She also shared advice with the
graduating students, telling them
that life is fluid.
“Just because you haven’t found
your passion yet, doesn’t mean you’re
falling behind. You’re not in a game
show. No one’s holding a stopwatch.
This is your life and you need to live
it on your timeline,” Heidi Guarino
said. “You have the rest of your
lives to figure out who you should
be, where you should live, who you
should love, and what you should do.”
Approximately 50 students, including
Hamel, Kelly, and Jacob Guarino,
graduated as members of the National
Honor Society.
NORTH SHORE
CHAMBER SCHOLARS
ST. MARY’S
HIGH SCHOOL
Nadia Del Sonno,
Daniela Di Costanzo,
Nicole Hamel,
Kaya Jackson,
Colby Kelly,
Kyle Kwiatek,
Nayeli Orellana,
Svetlana Parisi,
Makenzie Petillo,
Giana Ribeiro
Congratulations to St. Mary’s 2024 graduates!
Best of luck!
Joan (McGovern) Regan
617-529-1785
Proud Graduate of SMH Class "63"

GRADUATION 2024 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP 11
ST. MARY’S
After the commencement ceremony, St. Mary’s graduates grab each other in hugs.
Nicole Hamel delivers the valedictorian speech.
Soon-to-be graduates laugh during Colby Kelly’s Salutatory Speech.
Rep Dan Cahill - Lynn
CONGRATULATIONS
TO ALL
GRADUATES!

12 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP GRADUATION 2024
LYNNFIELD
NORTH SHORE
CHAMBER SCHOLARS
LYNNFIELD
HIGH SCHOOL
Keely Briggs,
Davius Chan,
Anna Connolly,
Madison Danese,
Janhavi Joglekar,
Russell Kasdon,
Leticia Marafon,
Madeline Mastrangelo,
Kurt Rothermund,
Alexandra Sykes,
Viola Wertz,
Megan Woods
RICHELLE MELAD
LYNNFIELD — On a sunny afternoon
at Lynnfield High School’s
football field, 149 students in the
Class of 2024 graduated on Friday.
Student Council President Keely
Briggs thanked Principal Patricia
Puglisi, interim Superintendent
Thomas Geary, the School Committee,
staff, teachers, and janitors
who contributed to the students’
success in finishing high school.
“But most of all, I would like to
thank my fellow members of the
Class of 2024 for the countless
memories and to congratulate everyone
for this huge accomplishment,”
Briggs said. “We made it.”
Valedictorian Russell Kasdon
encouraged both his fellow graduates
who plan on challenging themselves
in college and their parents
who want their children to excel academically
to find balance.
“I’ve had to put in a lot of effort
and build a strong work ethic,
but there are times when I wish I
could balance my time differently,”
Kasdon said. “Spending time with
friends and for yourself can be just
as important as spending time on
work.”
Senior Class President Max
Halsey talked about how the Class
of 2024 faced the unique situation
of entering school during a period
of uncertainty as a result of the
COVID-19 pandemic.
“As a class, we have weathered
many storms together, both as a
group and as individuals,” Halsey
said. “And maybe because of this,
our class has formed a uniquely
strong bond.”
Halsey also took the time to
thank the teachers students have
had not just at the high school, but
also since elementary school.
“From the earliest days at Huckleberry
Hill and Summer Street all
the way to our senior teachers, you
have had an impact on all of us,”
Halsey said.
Puglisi gave the welcoming and
closing remarks, Geary certified
the Class of 2024, and Geary and
School Committee Chair Kate De-
Prizio presented the diplomas to
the graduates.
Caps fly into the air as Lynnfield High seniors officially become graduates.
STAFF PHOTOS | SPENSER HASAK
Congratulations to the Class of 2024

GRADUATION 2024 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP 13
LYNNFIELD
Luke McQueen throws his arms out in celebration as he walks up to the stage to receive his diploma.
Aya Taleb looks out across the field after receiving her diploma.
Ethan Francis finishes walking the stage to receive his diploma.

14 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP GRADUATION 2024
PEABODY
NORTH SHORE
CHAMBER SCHOLARS
PEABODY
HIGH SCHOOL
Abigail Bettencourt,
Kyra Buckley, Jake Canuel,
Jessica Chau, Ty Couillard,
Dylan Faletra,
Vanessa Kolani,
Theodosia Kourtelidis,
Panayiota Papantonakis,
Vanessa Prousalis,
Matthew Ryder, Dea Sala,
Taranpreet Singh,
Elijah Swanson,
Joseph Thibault,
Charlotte Tracia
STAFF PHOTOS | EMMA FRINGUELLI
Kasandra and Jakob Pinheiro walk to get
their diplomas, arms linked.
PEABODY
PREP
Bianca Burt,
Brianna-Marie Tejeda
Daniel Delima’s family cheers and holds up a
giant picture of him as his name is called.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE SENIOR CLASS OF 2024
Wishing you continued success and good health
Century house
Route 114 • Peabody
978-531-1410
Epicurean shoppe
Route 114 • Peabody
978-531-1638
www.centuryhousepeabody.com

GRADUATION 2024 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP 15
PEABODY
BENJAMIN PIERCE
PEABODY — The skies cleared
over Veterans Memorial Stadium
on Friday evening as Peabody Veterans
Memorial High School’s Class
of 2024 marched onto the field.
The 320 graduates were met with
thunderous applause and cheers
from their families and friends as
their entrance was complemented
with the school concert band’s rendition
of “Pomp and Circumstance.”
Class of 2024 Co-Presidents Kathryn
Amico and Ryan Faltera began
the ceremony with a brief greeting,
in which they honored classmates
Ella O’Donnell and Jackson Frechette,
who died before they were
able to graduate.
“We miss you so much, Ella and
Jackson,” Faltera said. “Not a day
goes by where we don’t.”
Principal Brooke Randall then
took to the microphone as the first
of many speakers to congratulate
the graduates. Having assumed
her role in 2022, Randall spent two
school years as the Class of 2024’s
principal. She encouraged the graduates
to remain confident in themselves
as they enter the next phase
of their lives.
“When your family drops you off
at college, or the first time you step
into that job on a full-time basis, or
about to board the flight taking you
to basic training, let yourself recognize
and feel each emotion,” Randall
said. “But, also remind yourself that
you are prepared for this. You are
ready.”
Mayor Ted Bettencourt alluded to
the success of previous graduating
classes and said that he is confident
the Class of 2024 will be no different.
“You stayed focused on your goals
and accomplished something truly
special,” Bettencourt said. “We are
all rooting for you to make a positive
difference in our world.”
Superintendent of Schools Dr.
Josh Vadala introduced the Class
of 2024’s commencement speaker,
Lauren Blodgett. Blodgett graduated
from Veterans Memorial High
School in 2007 and has gone on to
have a successful career as a human-rights
and immigration attorney.
She is the founder of the Brave
House, a nonprofit that supports
immigrant and refugee children.
Blodgett gave colorful tips to the
graduates, including to not take it
too personally if it appears that people
do not like them.
“You can be the juiciest peach on
the farm, and honey, some people
just don’t like peaches,” Blodgett
said.
She also said the graduates should
seek to be “cockroaches,” which she
defined as people who stay committed
to their goals and maintain connections
with those who can help
The newly graduated class of 2024 throw their caps into the air.
advance their careers.
After the top eight scholars of the
graduating class were awarded with
George Peabody Medals, Abigail
Bettencourt, the senior essayist, described
how she feels ready and prepared
for the next phase of her life
thanks to the resources high school
has given her.
Salutatorian Vanessa Kolani
spoke on the strong bond her class
formed throughout its four years,
using humorous examples.
“We functioned as a conjoined
unit, like when we tried to distract
Mr. Picanso by talking about mathematicians,”
Kolani said. “The unique
quirks of our school that we always
complained about was what bonded
us so deeply.”
Valedictorian Theodosia Kourtelidis
quoted Charles Dickens’
19th-century novel “A Tale of Two
Cities,” as she felt one of its most
well-known phrases summed up
her and her peers’ high-school experience.
“It was the best of times, it was the
worst of times,” Kourtelidis said. “It
was the age of wisdom, it was the
age of foolishness.”
After each student received their
diploma, the tassels were turned
and the caps were thrown.
Best Wishes to all the Graduates for a Happy and Healthy Future
DRS. LAGO, KUHNEN & ASSOCIATES PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
ADULT DENTISTRY & ORTHODONTICS SINCE 1975
1 Roosevelt Ave, Peabody
978-535-2500
225 Boston Street #305 Lynn
781-581-7798
w w w . mzld e n t a l . c o m

16 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP GRADUATION 2024
SAUGUS
Shane Avery Bourque celebrates on stage as he gets his diploma.
Valedictorian Sarah Dorielan gets emotional as she thanks her parents
for all they have done for her.
Madilyn Femino opens up the graduation with a speech.
Elias Joseph Diaz executes a jump to celebrate graduating.
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL 2024 GRADUATES!
Address: 15 Johnson Street, Lynn, MA 01902
Phone: (781) 592-5599 | LynnBEF@verizon.net

GRADUATION 2024 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP 17
SAUGUS
KELAN FLYNN
SAUGUS — Members of the Class of
2024 at Saugus High School donned their
caps and gowns to accept their diplomas
during the graduation ceremony at the
Christie Serino Jr. Memorial Stadium on
Friday evening.
Principal Brendon Sullivan encouraged
the 176 graduating students to commit to
whatever they choose to do in life, and said
he has no doubts they will do so.
“As a class, you have consistently impressed
me… you have led the school with
enthusiasm and dignity,” Sullivan said.
Sullivan ended his speech with a reminder
to the students.
“Continue to be shining examples of
what true Sachems are,” he said.
School Committee Chair Vincent Serino
told the students that as they enter a new
chapter in their lives, they should not rely
on luck.
Serino also urged the graduates to trust
their instincts.
“You control your future,” Serino said in
conclusion. “Welcome to Sachem Nation.”
Superintendent Michael Hashem said
that he wanted to congratulate all of the
graduates, but added that the moment is
bittersweet.
“We are both proud of your accomplishments,
and sad to see such wonderful
young adults leaving us,” Hashem said.
Hashem added that the Class of 2024
will forever hold a special place in his
heart, as it was the last class he served as
principal for during the students’ freshman
year.
“Your path… has truly prepared you for
greatness,” Hashem said. “I want to wish
you the best.”
Class Vice President Madilyn Femino
took the podium to address her classmates,
saying that it was hard to believe the day
of their graduation had finally come.
Femino said that most graduates get
asked what they’re going to do next, but
that the real important question is who
they are going to be.
She encouraged the members of the
class to make mistakes.
“Make as many mistakes as you can,
because mistakes shape who you are,” she
said.
The graduates turned back from their
seats to face the crowd of their loved ones
at the behest of Femino, and gave them
all a rapturous applause in appreciation
of their hard work for helping them reach
this milestone.
Student Council President Grace Fiore
also addressed her classmates, saying that
high school is all about experience and
growth.
Fiore wished the members of the class
the best of luck in their future endeavors.
“01906 will always have a special place
in my heart,” she said.
Salutatorian Gabriella Huber said that
in the last four years, the seniors have all
said that they couldn’t wait to leave high
school.
“Soon, we will be facing reality, and more
responsibility than we could ever imagine…
After all those deadlines, essays, and
tests — it was all worth it,” Huber said.
“We only get one life, so go make the
most of it, and do what makes you happy,”
she added.
Valedictorian Sarah Dorielan kicked off
her address with a quip.
“I’ve heard that the greatest speeches
are the shortest, so I’ll try to make this
quick, so we can all graduate sooner,” she
said to laughter from the audience.
Dorielan said that while the first few
chapters of the students’ lives have been
written by their parents, teachers, and environment,
they have to start writing their
own chapters now.
“We must pick up our pens and write
ourselves with passion and perseverance,”
she said.
Class President Jessica Bremberg
thanked her friends and family, and asked
her fellow graduates to do the same.
“Today, we are together for one final
gathering,” Bremberg said. “To celebrate
our accomplishments in tribute to all of
our hard work.”
Quoting Ferris Bueller from “Ferris
Bueller’s Day Off,” Bremberg told her
classmates to remember to take life in.
“The future is not something to wait for,”
Bremberg said. “It’s something to create.”
Graduates file onto the field at the start of the ceremony.
PHOTOS | PAULA MULLER

18 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP GRADUATION 2024
SWAMPSCOTT
BENJAMIN PIERCE
SWAMPSCOTT — The bleachers of
Blocksidge Field were filled Friday evening
with the proud families of students
in Swampscott High School’s Class of
2024.
The 160 graduates marched to their
seats accompanied by “Pomp and Circumstance”
played by the high school’s band.
After an introduction by Superintendent
of Schools Pamela Angelakis, Class Secretary
Coco Clopton welcomed guest speaker
Jamie Denbo to the podium.
Denbo, a member of Swampscott High’s
Class of 1991, has made a career as a television
producer for shows such as “Grey’s
Anatomy.” She encouraged the students
to “plan less” and find their vocation more
naturally, as she herself did not expect to
have the job she has today when she was
graduating more than 30 years before.
“Here we are now, me with a cool job in
entertainment… If I had known too much
in advance, I don’t think that any of it
would have happened,” Denbo said.
Class President Celia Gordon addressed
not only her fellow graduates,
but also their families in attendance. Her
speech centered around how children
tend to ask their parents a lot of questions
when they are young. Now, however,
she said the roles might be reversed as
parents ask the graduates what the next
steps in their lives will be.
A rendition of “Mr. Blue Sky” by the
high school’s chorus was followed by Valedictorian
Sofia Comfort, who spoke about
how every relationship she made during
her high-school experience had an impact
on her life, no matter how small it might
have been.
“Most people don’t stay in our lives forever,”
Comfort said. “No matter how we
might feel about the characters of the
past, we must thank them for the good
times spent together and for teaching us
how to tackle the next chapters in our
lives.”
Principal Dennis Kohut used professional
sports figures such as Kobe Bryant,
Bill Belichick, and Diana Taurasi in an
analogy about how failure is a necessary
step in order to achieve success. Bryant
and Taurasi lead their basketball leagues
with the most missed shots of all time,
however they are also some of the winningest
players. Belichick has the most losses
of a head coach in NFL history, but has
also won six Super Bowl championships.
Kohut was joined by Angelakis, Assistant
Principal Colleen Finn, School Committee
Chair Suzanne Wright, Director
of Guidance Rachel Sturma, and School
Counselors Julie Mazzola and Julie
O’Neil for the presentation of diplomas.
All of the graduates were applauded by
their loved ones in attendance as they
crossed the stage.
Class Vice President Luca Croft concluded
the ceremony with a comedic
speech that ended with an instruction to
his peers to turn their tassels and throw
their caps in celebration of being officially
recognized as high-school graduates.
The SwampScott High School Chorus sings ‘Mr. Blue Sky’.
STAFF PHOTOS | BENJAMIN PIERCE

GRADUATION 2024 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP 19
SWAMPSCOTT
NORTH SHORE
CHAMBER SCHOLARS
SWAMPSCOTT
HIGH SCHOOL
Lucas Bereaud,
Sofia Comfort,
Luca Croft,
Amanjeet Fichtman,
Quinn Hitchcock,
Ella Karlin,
Maxwell Manadee,
Victoria Quagrello
Valedictorian Sofia Comfort addresses her fellow graduates on the significance of the relationships
they formed in high school.
Guest speaker Jamie Denbo, Class of 1991, encourages the
graduates not to stress too much about their futures.
Class President Celia Gordon thanked the Class of 2024’s parents
for guiding them to this point in their lives.

20 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP GRADUATION 2024
ST. JOHN’S PREP
NORTH SHORE
CHAMBER SCHOLARS
ST. JOHN’S
HIGH SCHOOL
Elliott Adams,
Luke Aengenheyster,
Daniel Baumfeld,
Alex Bernstein,
Harry Block,
Innes Boesch,
Joseph Ellard,
Chase Fruehauf,
Mark Ghiu,
Christian Kaminski,
David Kane,
Alexander Melville,
Aidan Miller,
Christopher Shea
John Droggitis, Peabody,
receives his diploma from Head
of School Edward Hardiman.
RICHELLE MELAD
DANVERS — 69 students from Lynn,
Lynnfield, Marblehead, Nahant, Peabody,
Saugus, and Swampscott were among the
268 who graduated from St. John’s Preparatory
School this year. This year, both
the senior-class speaker, Graham Kramer,
and valedictorian, David Kane, were
from Marblehead.
Kramer spoke at the ceremony about
how the Class of 2024 started its highschool
journey at the height of the
COVID-19 pandemic, in “what could have
been the most confusing time ever.” Students
were only able to see each other
face-to-face starting in their sophomore
year.
“Although distance was enforced, somehow
we became closer as a class while simultaneously
being forced to stay apart,”
Kramer said in his speech. “During my
first year at SJP, even though I couldn’t
see any faces, I saw kindness, I saw nervousness,
and I saw commitment all in
the eyes of my classmates from showing
up to those early Zoom meetings to
making sure masks were on straight for
games.”
After discussing the “bad” — COVID-19
— Kramer also talked about the “good,”
highlighting the accolades of fellow classmates
on the field, court, and stage.
“Throughout our time at the Prep, we
have won dozens of state championships,
received rewards and accolades for fine
arts, dominated in robotics, and so much
more,” Kramer said.
He added other achievements, such as
students winning a stock-market game,
performing a production of “The Addams
Family,” and placing second in an intramural
basketball league.
Kane, in his speech, urged his fellow
graduates to live life more openly, without
adhering to an “outline” or “to-do list.”
He described how his recent college rejections
made him accept that his plans are
constantly evolving.
“No outline can predict our lives after
high school, no matter what we try or do,”
Kane said. “Surprises happen and things
change. The more I try to plan, the more
disappointed I find myself in surprises.”
Kane is headed to Tufts University and
Kramer will go to Boston College.
Elliott Adams and Alex Bernstein from
Marblehead and Christian Kaminski and
Christopher Shea from Peabody were also
in the top 5% of their senior class in academic
performance.
The following students from Lynn, Lynnfield,
Marblehead, Nahant, Peabody,
Saugus, and Swampscott graduated from
St. John’s Prep this year:
LYNN
Willem A. Hofeldt
Marquese Thomas L’Italien-Avery
Joshua A. Mlongecha
Anthony Joseph Smart
LYNNFIELD
Cameron Michael Busa
Aidan Joseph Driscoll
Sean David Drzewiczewski
Braedon Thomas Flanagan
David Jin (also from Hefei, China)
Jason Victor McCausland
Mark John McDuffee Jr.
Brendan Andrew Powers
Christian Richard Rosa
William Joseph Vittiglio
MARBLEHEAD
Elliott Nils Adams
Alexander Gabriel Bernstein
Charles Langdon Brenneman
Matthew Arthur Callahan
Richard Loomis Case III
Jack Robert Doherty
Wells Rockefeller Gillett
Jackson Bailey Ivers
David Andrew Kane
Evan David Karlyn
Andrew Samuel Klein
Graham Patrick Kramer
Alden Robert LeMieux
Graham Eagan MacLean
James Kipp MacLean
Jason Paul Martin
Ryan T. Murphy
Jason Morris Orfaly
John Upton Rice
Ethan James Rule
Andrew Ronald Ruocco
Kurt O’Neill Schillinger
Daniel Timothy Scroope
Gregg Duggan Semprucci
Everest A. Tilkens
Samuel Henry Tucker
Christopher Jian Young
NAHANT
Will Malachy Hayes
Colin Sullivan Mellen
PEABODY
Tirenioluwa Michael Asenuga
Thomas J. Desmond
John Thomas Droggitis
Shamus Stephen Flaherty
Nicholas Anthony Gregory
Rani M. Haddad
Nico Ilardi
Joseph Michael Isidro
Christian James Kaminski
Terence Robert Lee
Shane Rose
Zachary Craig Saporito
Christopher Michael Shea
Yianni Nectarios Vamvouklis
SAUGUS:
Sebastiano Carmen DiModica
Anthony Burke Hykel
Anthony J. Sapochetti
Christian Andrew von Jako
SWAMPSCOTT
PHOTOS | PAULA MULLER
The end of the graduation ceremony and the traditional cap toss.
Arthur Jacob Audet Jr.
Tory Bryce Fasciano
John Paul Kiely
Alexander Scott Macey
Charles H.R. Ralfs
Matthew James Rockett
Charles Joseph Westwood
Samuel Nicholas Wolke

GRADUATION 2024 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP 21
FECTEAU-LEARY
VIVIAN MANÇELLARI
LYNN — Fecteau-Leary Junior/Senior
High School’s graduation ceremony was a
day of firsts on Thursday.
A quarter of the students in the Class of
2024 are the first people in their families
to receive a high-school diploma, Fecteau-Leary
Principal Maura Durgin-Scully
said.
“I would like to say how proud I am
for each one of you. Many of you have
overcome many adversities and challenges
to reach this awesome milestone,”
Durgin-Scully said during her speech.
Durgin-Scully added that a third of the
graduates are headed to college.
Justyn De Leon, one of the 39 graduating
students, said he was very excited to
experience a new chapter of his life.
“I went to KIPP Academy Lynn and
then I transferred to Fecteau when the
pandemic ended. The transition was a little
rough, but I’m glad I transitioned, it
was better for me and my mental health,”
De Leon added.
Durgin-Scully said alternative school
is not only a different path for education,
but also a place for students to find their
voice and individuality.
“It never mattered what brought you
to Fecteau-Leary, what mattered is that
you found a safe space and success,”
Durgin-Scully said.
On the importance of high school’s life
lessons, Deputy Superintendent Maricel
Goris said that “boundaries and limits
are important and necessary to reach
your goals.”
In her closing statement, Durgin-Scully
once again expressed how proud she was
for the students who graduated.
“Remember that things may happen
to you, people may come and go, but no
one can ever take this piece of paper and
education away from you,” Durgin-Scully
said.
After the ceremony, Yeida Valle, one of
the graduating students, took pictures
with her family. They were holding a photograph
of her grandmother, who died before
she was able to see Valle graduate.
“Grandma would always say, ‘Yeida, you
can do this.’ She finally did it,” Rafael Valle,
Yeida Valle’s father, said.
STAFF PHOTO | SPENSER HASAK
Sajada Dean lifts up her sister,
Jayana, as they celebrate her
graduation from Fecteau-Leary
Jr/Sr High.
Fecteau-Leary Jr/Sr High graduates and their families and friends
celebrate following commencement.
Fecteau-Leary Jr/Sr High graduate Charles Diggs hugs Principal
Maura Durgin-Scully after receiving his diploma.

22 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP GRADUATION 2024
KIPP
SOPHIA HARRIS
LYNN — KIPP Academy Lynn High
School celebrated 120 graduates on Saturday.
The Valedictorian Address was presented
by Alejandro Nina Duran and the
Class-Elected Speaker was Alejandra Arrivillaga
DeLeon.
The Turning of the Tassel was led by
Class President Saja Suliman.
The class of 2024 was an academically
strong class with students attending Harvard,
Boston University, Northeastern,
Northwestern, and Duke.
Many recent graduates have chosen to
stay local after graduation with most students
staying in Massachusetts to attend
state schools such as Framingham State,
Fitchburg State, and Salem State University.
Some students have chosen to attend
specialty schools in higher education such
as Massachusetts College of Art and Design,
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy
and Health Sciences, and programs such
as Freedom Trail Realty School.
Flory Mendez Merida tosses her cap in the air.
STAFF PHOTOS | EMMA FRINGUELLI
KIPP Academy Lynn Collegiate class of 2024 members turn their
tassels.
Graduates shed tears as they hug friends and family.

GRADUATION 2024 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP 23
MARBLEHEAD
NORTH SHORE
CHAMBER SCHOLARS
MARBLEHEAD
HIGH SCHOOL
Ila Bumagin,
Emmet Charney,
Clara Donovan,
Hogan Sailor Hervé Sedky,
Shannon Hitscherich,
Caroline Humphreys,
Maeve McIlroy ,
Ezra Myerson,
Anna Piper,
Caroline Scroope,
Katherine Twomey
RYAN VERMETTE
MARBLEHEAD — Despite cloudy
skies over Piper Field, it was a bright moment
for Marblehead High School’s Class
of 2024 on Friday as friends, family, and
school staff all took part in honoring the
graduating seniors.
Led by school staff, administrators,
and School Committee members, the
216 graduating seniors made their way
across the field’s giant red M for their
commencement to the sound of “Pomp
and Circumstance,” performed by members
of the high school’s band.
Senior Shakayla Baxter presented the
welcome address to the class.
“Remember to value others, recognize
injustices, and do our part to make this
world a better place for all,” Baxter said
to her fellow classmates.
Valedictorian Kate Twomey said that
for the rest of the graduates’ lives, they
will be connected by their time at Marblehead
High and the moments they shared
together.
“I believe that each of us will take away
from our time here whenever we need to,”
Twomey said. “Those lessons will help us
all succeed, whatever endeavor we embark
on next. I’m so proud of everything
we’ve accomplished thus far and can’t
wait to see all that is yet to come.”
Interim Superintendent Theresa Mc-
Guinness encouraged the seniors to be
in touch with themselves as they make
their next steps.
“Be grateful for who you are, and message
yourself from time to time with this
phrase: ‘I do not need other people’s approval
to love myself fully, because you
are enough,’” McGuinness said as she
closed her remarks.
After McGuinness spoke, a moment of
silence was held for Sophia Smith, who
would have been a senior this year. Smith
died in 2018 following a battle with a rare
brain tumor.
Class Salutatorian and President Clara
Donovan thanked all of the educators she
and her classmates encountered throughout
their four years at Marblehead High.
“The young adults that each of us has
become and the achievements we have
made are truly remarkable. But we
wouldn’t have grown in such ways without
the guidance of Marblehead’s amazing
teachers,” Donovan said.
Senior Class Vice President Emily
Tauro also announced that the Class of
2024’s senior gift will be additions to the
outdoor sitting space in the school’s back
courtyard. Tauro said the new tables the
seniors are donating will be “longer-lasting
and sustainable.”
“The outdoor courtyard holds much
space that we hope to make lively, as we
believe that it is a beautiful area and
want to make sure we are maintaining it
to its very best,” Tauro said.
The class of 2024 toss their caps into the sky.
STAFF PHOTO | EMMA FRINGUELLI
Caps off to You, Graduates of
2024
Lynn 82 Street, Peabody • 978-531-0472 • ccbfuneral.com

24 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP GRADUATION 2024
CONGRATS TO ALL
2024 GRADUATES!
Wishing all graduates the best as you make your move to
your next chapter.
From your friends at Salem Five Bank.
salemfive.com | 800.850.5000
Member FDIC