Congratulations to the Binghamton High School Class of 2023! Our newly-minted graduates turned their tassels and claimed their diplomas during a distinguished ceremony at the Visions Veterans Memorial Arena on Sunday, June 25.
Remarks were delivered by valedictorian Michael Vititow and salutatorian Dominic Lisio, who reflected on the class's four unique, challenging years of high school.
"From facing a pandemic, to online learning, to taking AP or IB classes, we persevered through the long hours on Zoom and long nights of doing homework, and we continue to learn through it all," Lisio said.
"Despite the challenges, you never gave up. You kept pushing forward, and today, you're here graduating with honor," Vititow said. "Remember that the challenges you've overcome have made you stronger and more resilient."
Principal Kevin Richman shared personal stories of resilience about members of the senior class who overcame significant obstacles to make it to graduation day. Some immigrated to the United States and had to learn a new language, while others lived in extreme poverty and were plagued by homelessness. Another student, diagnosed with autism and anxiety and has historically struggled in both social and school settings, overcame his personal challenges and discovered an unexpected passion for theater and performance.
Mr. Richman also spoke of a particular student who suffered a serious injury that could have ended his high school football career, but instead, he made an incredible comeback, became team captain, and is going on to play college football. Mr. Richman acknowledged that student's unfailing leadership and positive attitude off the field, even after losing his father last week.
"No matter what, he always has a smile on his face. He also happens to be one of the nicest kids in the building," Mr. Richman said. "Although I didn't know your dad personally, I can assure you, he is proud of you. And how do I know that? Because we are proud of you. He is smiling down on you right now because you are graduating today."
Dr. Tonia Thompson, superintendent of the Binghamton City School District, left the graduates with words of advice for the future - including being unafraid to step outside their comfort zone in their adult lives.
"Think about the last uncomfortable situation you were in. Perhaps you were playing a game new to you, touring a college, or interviewing for a job or opportunity," Dr. Thompson said. "When you are put into uncomfortable situations, you have two choices. You can stay, acclimate, and persevere through, or you can retreat. These uncomfortable situations are events disguised as opportunities to grow."
Two students achieved their outstanding goal of graduating with a full International Baccalaureate diploma. 102 students graduated as honor graduates, with a GPA of 87 or above. Meanwhile, 19 students graduated with a Project Lead the Way pre-engineering distinction, and 14 graduated from the Broome-Tioga BOCES P-TECH program. 109 students graduated with a Rod Serling School of Fine Arts distinction. Nine students will go on to play a sport at the collegiate level. Two have enlisted to give back to our country by serving in our Armed Forces.
The ceremony can be viewed in full on the BCSD YouTube channel. Photos are being uploaded to the district Facebook page.