North High seniors prepare for the future

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“Bittersweet” was how graduate Joanne Henriquez said she felt as she finished the last touches of make-up, and fixed her bright “2011” tassel on her cap, while awaiting her shining moment.

Graduates lined the hallway, and strutted to the stage in regal green and white gowns to thunderous applause from an audience of smiling parents, students, administrators and friends at Valley Stream North High School’s 54th commencement ceremony on June 24. The ceremony was moved indoors due to inclement weather.

The auditorium filled with a lively musical medley from North’s band, and countless camera flashes lit up the room. Board of Education Vice President Jeanne Greco Jacobs first congratulated the 178 graduates, as well as their parents. “Because of your support, the students have accomplished so much,” she said. “And graduates, please take a moment after the ceremony to thank the people great in your lives.”

Principal Clifford Odell imparted special words of advice to a class, he said, that has been an “honor” and “privilege” to know. He told them to live life with a passion for something, always strive to be their best, smile and laugh a lot, and to always be themselves.

The graduates grew emotional at Odell’s words, before Salutatorian Daniel Monahan spoke. He recounted the countless assignments that were easy to put off until the last minute, advising students to start on time. “Life fails to match the enormous generosity of our teachers,” he said. “Procrastinating life away does not afford an opportunity to work at your dream job, or backpack through Europe.” He urged graduates to not “miss life’s due date,” and enjoy life.

The senior chorus performed a passionate interlude of selections — “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield, and the “North High School Alma Mater” by Lawrence Mita.

Valedictorian Tiandra Ray challenged the class to take advantage of all they can in life. “I invite you to join me in my quest to be active,” she said. “We are capable of standing up, and standing out, and raising our voices. We have the ability and talent to go beyond what people do.”

Ray left the class to ponder this question: “It’s easy to live on autopilot, but is it worth it?”

Each graduate walked across stage to receive their diplomas, culminating the last six years of hard work. “I am really choked up,” said parent Marty Gofberg, “because it’s a big achievement.”