Warm temperatures, blue skies and soaring spirits set a perfect stage as 321 members of the Jericho High School Class of 2008 joined throngs of families and friends for the 48th annual Commencement on Sunday, June 29 at the Tilles Center. Students, in a sea of blue and gold, entered the auditorium to sounds of "Pomp and Circumstance" promptly at 9 am. After Senior Class President Alexandra Machover recited the Pledge and the graduation band played the national anthem, Student Council president Jared Solomon and vice president Negin Navab welcomed family and friends to the day's festivities.

This year Jericho High School graduates listened to the collective wisdom and thoughts of co-valedictorians Jared Solomon, Adam Fields, Alexandra Hay and Sana Raoof, as well as salutatorian Ryan Price. They reflected on the past, looked to the future, thanked families, staff and friends, dared classmates to dream big, remember where they came from and always be mindful of their commitment to give back.

Jericho School Board Vice President Joseph Lorintz, whose daughter Rachel was among the graduating seniors, shared many fond memories of this extraordinary class. "Could I say that this is the best class ever and risk being accused of being too biased?" he wondered. "My hope is that our children loved growing up in this community because they made lifelong friendships and memories that allow them to answer when asked, 'where are you from,' they can proudly say 'I'm from Jericho.' " Lorintz finished with, "As Eleanor Roosevelt once said, 'the future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.' I wish you all success and happiness as you leave Jericho and start the next phase of your lives. Thank you for the wonderful memories you've given us."

Jericho Superintendent of Schools Hank Grishman marveled at the accomplishments of this exceptional group. "Celebrating the achievements of another incredible collection of seniors about to graduate Jericho High School is always an honor," explained Jericho Superintendent of Schools Hank Grishman. "However, as impressive as each preceding groups of seniors have been, this class of remarkably talented young men and women is as accomplished and will be as memorable as any that I can remember in my 13 years at Jericho. As important as their numerous academic and athletic achievements (which, if listed, and described, would run into Plainview's graduation!) is their commitment to community service. Jericho students put their hearts and time into causes that made us all proud of their accomplishments."

In closing, Mr. Grishman asked graduates to take time to consider the obligation we have toward a better tomorrow. "Don't ever forget where you came from," he said. "As you leave today and hopefully go off to save the world, remember what you have learned. You have the power to do great things. You have the power to change the course of history through goodness, kindness, your intelligence and a commitment to respect, hard work, honesty and giving back."

Jericho High School Principal Joseph Prisinzano congratulated students on their outstanding accomplishments in academics, athletics and community service. He reminded graduates to stay open-minded and appreciate new experiences.

Then, amid a sea of flashing cameras, each of the 321 Jericho High School seniors received diplomas from Mrs. Krieger, Mr. Grishman, and Mr. Prisinzano. A special "graduation diploma" was presented to Dr. Anna Hunderfund, the assistant superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, who will be the new superintendent in Locust Valley. After leaving the stage of the auditorium to the "Grand March," smiling graduates and families poured outside onto the grounds of the Tilles Center. Cheers, kisses, hugs, handshakes, and even a few tears, completed this memorable occasion for the Jericho High School Class of 2008.