Pomp and Circumstance

It was a picture perfect day for Glen Cove High School's annual commencement on Friday, with clear and sunny skies contributing to the joyous occasion.

Led by members of the district's administration, the graduates marched down the school's J.C. Maiden Field track with smiles on their faces while family and friends snapped pictures nearby. 

Principal Keith Schenker opened the ceremony by reading a few letters that students wrote during their freshman year in 2006, which described their aspirations in life. By having the students participate in this exercise four years ago, Schenker said, he hoped they would discover their deepest passions. 

"One must come to realize that what we call life is really the collection of all those experiences — good and bad — that occur while pursuing our goals," Schenker said. "Stay true to your goals, but stop every now and then and enjoy the moment. Living is what happens in those moments." 

Just before the diploma presentation began, Superintendent Dr. Laurence Aronstein encouraged the graduates to strive to be leaders in all of their future endeavors.

"Brand into your memory what is happening here tonight," Aronstein said. "My advice to you is know who you are, stand for something and do not compromise your principles." 

Administrators, however, were not the only ones sharing words of wisdom Friday evening. With three unique approaches, the class's top three academic achievers also took time to spread positive messages to their fellow graduates.  

Valedictorian Kieran Basra had a bit of a comedic, which gave the audience back-to-back laughs at times.  

"Life is completely unpredictable," he said, "like the guy at the wedding whose had one too many and grabs the mic out of jealousy and impulse." 

The student's advice was also peppered with pop culture references, allowing him to keep his speech in tune with the next generation. 

"Life is about the journey, not the destination," said Basra, who will attend the University of Miami in the fall. "As my fascination with the TV series 'Lost' has taught me, you will find that the destination is seldom as satisfying as the path that took you there." 

Salutatorian Katherine Marinaccio added a very personal twist to her address, admitting that she turned to one of her favorite fictional literary characters for help: Winnie-the-Pooh. 

"Tolerance, simplicity and a faithfulness to one's inner nature are qualities that both Pooh Bear and the philosophy of Daoism both possess," Marinaccio said, noting that these principles can be helpful suggestions when it comes to making life choices. 

"The major principle of Daoism is understanding who you are and being true to yourself," said Marinaccio, whose headed for Wesleyan University in Connecticut in the fall. "Allow yourself to learn and be challenged because that will help you to discover yourself." 

Brandon Winkler, the class's honorarian, highlighted the importance of dedication during his remarks. 

"You all have the ability to do something that makes a difference," said Winkler, whose slated to attend Stony Brook University in September. "You only get out of life what you put into it. If you work hard, you will do great things." 

Although the commencement marked the end of the students' high school careers, many said they are looking forward to the opportunities in the future. 

Senior Taylor Sangenito is one graduate who has much in store in the upcoming months. 

"I plan to attend [Nassau Community College's] nursing program and audition for the Radio City Rockettes in April," Sangenito explained after the commencement. "But, I will miss everyone, we have made some great memories." 

Her mother, Sharon, was one of the many beaming parents in the audience. 

"I'm very proud and kind of sad because this is it for me for Glen Cove High School," Sharon said, referring to her older daughter who graduated in 2008. "But, I'm excited for her future and all the great things that are ahead of her."

Like this story? Read more of Patch's 2010 graduation coverage.