It’s official! Congratulations to the Sto-Rox Class of 2026!
The commencement ceremony took place on the Sto-Rox Jr./Sr. High School field on Friday, May 29, at 7:00 p.m. The evening began with a welcome from Dr. Thomas Iaquinta, Sto-Rox Jr./Sr. High School Assistant Principal. After his remarks, the procession of flag bearers, marshals, graduates, faculty, and staff entered the field and took their seats. The Senior High School Band performed “Pomp and Circumstance” during the procession and then played “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
Graduate Dimia Pendzich then took the podium to lead graduates and audience members in the Pledge of Allegiance. Graduate Manfredo Nobile followed with welcoming remarks before Dr. Iaquinta returned to the podium to offer opening comments.
Graduate Destiney Robinson then delivered the class reflection. She began with a quote from Maya Angelou, “You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated,” a quote Robinson said “perfectly describes our class.” Robinson reflected on the early mornings, group projects, deadlines, stress, and countless other challenges the Class of 2026 overcame together.
Salutatorian Alira Hickman then addressed her classmates and the crowd. She expressed gratitude to the many family members, friends, faculty, staff, parents, and guardians who helped make the evening possible. Hickman spoke about choosing her path in 10th grade and dedicating three years of her life to Culinary Arts, a passion she plans to continue pursuing after graduation. She acknowledged that while some graduates have a clear vision for their future and others are still finding their way, each person has the power to choose their own path. Hickman also reflected on the challenges that came with reaching this milestone, noting that the journey was not always easy but was worth it.
“We now need to set new goals and do something new that we are truly passionate about and enjoy doing. It’s now time for us to take this weight and make something of it.”
Before concluding, Hickman thanked those who supported the class, congratulated her fellow graduates, and left the audience with one final message:
“Don’t just dream about success, be the person who gets up everyday and makes it happen.”
Valedictorian Eric Richardson followed with his address.
Honored to serve as valedictorian, Richardson stated, “In my life, I have encountered people who have looked down on Sto-Rox…But I know the truth behind our community. This community is more than incorrect stereotypes formed about us. This graduating class is living proof of that.”
He continued by reflecting on the obstacles the class overcame and how those experiences prepared them to move forward and open new doors. Before stepping away from the podium, Richardson energized the crowd with one final chant.
“When I say green, you say white!” and “When I say Sto, you say Rox!”
The audience responded enthusiastically, bringing excitement and school pride to the celebration.
Before the presentation of diplomas, Superintendent Mrs. Sonya Coleman took the stage to share her remarks. She first thanked the parents and guardians who chose Sto-Rox for their children and then recognized the faculty, staff, Board of Directors, and the Class of 2026, highlighting all that was being celebrated that evening — “every chapter that has led to this moment.”
Mrs. Coleman reflected on attending her first Sto-Rox commencement ceremony last year before becoming superintendent. She spoke about the kind of people the world needs — individuals who lead with integrity and strong character — reminding graduates that “Leadership begins with the choices you make every single day.”
She also emphasized that titles and salaries do not define a person, sharing that “No matter where your life takes you, …your greatest contribution will be the person you choose to become.”
After her remarks honoring the resilient graduating class, the presentation of diplomas began.
One by one, graduates crossed the stage to receive their diplomas, shaking hands with district leaders, waving to their support systems, smiling at classmates, and exchanging high-fives on their way back to their seats.
Once all diplomas had been awarded, Board President Mr. Cameron Culliver offered closing remarks. A Sto-Rox graduate from the Class of 2008, Mr. Culliver shared a message he wished he had heard while sitting in the graduates’ seats:
“Your future is bigger than you can see right now.”
He acknowledged that some graduates are heading to college, others to the workforce or military service, and reminded them that each path is valuable. Mr. Culliver concluded by encouraging the graduates to believe in themselves and embrace the opportunities ahead.
The ceremony concluded with everyone rising as the band played the alma mater. Graduates then moved their tassels from right to left, officially marking their transition from students to alumni. As caps flew into the air, families, friends, supporters, and loved ones rushed forward to celebrate the newest members of the Sto-Rox alumni family.
Congratulations once again to the Sto-Rox Class of 2026, and best wishes as you begin the next chapter of your journey.
