Oh, the places they'll go! Pictures and more as Bellmore-Merrick schools celebrate the Class of 2023

John F. Kennedy, Wellington C. Mepham and Sanford H. Calhoun High Schools’ Class of 2023 in the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District graduated in separate outdoor ceremonies on June 11, to crowds of cheering family members, friends and school officials donning green, maroon and blue, respectively.

The valedictorian and salutatorian at Kennedy was Otto Velting and Ty Gelman, and at Mepham, Matthew Manno and Gabriella Simal. Calhoun had two, co-valedictorians, Evana Tomazatos and Serena Palmer. The salutatorian was Joseph Fiscella.

At Kennedy’s ceremony, Principal Gerard Owenburg emphasized the importance of gratitude and encouraged graduates to carry that quality with them as they move on in life.

“Happiness can be a difficult goal to assess,” he said. “As you continue your journey throughout life, I want you to remember my wish for you – making every moment count isn’t about striving to be successful. It’s about your happiness, living in the moment and enjoying all of the people around you. If there’s one thing that affects your happiness more than anything else, it’s gratitude. Today serves as a great opportunity to reflect on all that we have and all that we are grateful for.”

At Mepham, Principal Anthony DeMartinis recalled the building’s 85-year rich history and how the senior class “reinvented what it means to be a Pirate.”

“You all provided the template,” he said. “You brought services, sports, clubs, arts, music to a place of excellence never before reached. You have set the bar very, very high.”

Calhoun’s Principal Nicole Hollings called for graduates to take advantage of opportunities that will help develop strength and resilience.

“As you venture into the vast tapestry of the world, remember that true success isn’t defined by external measures, but rather by the person you become,” she said. “It is not merely about achieving fame, wealth or titles, but rather about finding purpose and a pathway while making a positive impact on the lives of others.”