Thursday, October 1, 2026
Despite cloudy weather and possible rain, family and friends filled the stands at Oyster Bay High School as its seniors graduated on Saturday. The weather caused the ceremony to be moved the school’s gymnasium where students received their diplomas.
The Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble opened the ceremony with a performance of “Pomp and Circumstance” as graduating students filed in. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, the National Anthem was performed by the Oyster Bay High School Chamber Singers and translated into American Sign Language by students in the school’s ASL program.
Principal Melissa Argaman introduced the ceremony’s speakers, including valedictorian Mia Bencal, salutatorian Julia Milos, Superintendent Francesco Ianni and Board of Education President Nancy Castrogiovanni.
Bencal urged the class of 2026 to pursue their dreams.
“People of accomplishment rarely sit back and let things happen to them,” she said.
“They happen to things.”
The Beekman Medal, an award granted annually to the graduate who best exemplifies leadership, service and integrity, was presented to senior Giovanna Lisa. Continuing the National Honor Society chapter’s tradition of honoring an “exceptional” teacher each year, President Giovanni Marinos named Deirdre Faughey an honorary member of the society.
