By Frank Sinatra, AAP Editor
On June 17, the Pennsauken School District, families, and friends celebrated the achievements and milestones of Pennsauken High School’s Class of 2026, as they graduated high school during a special ceremony at the prestigious Liacouras Center at Temple University. Over 431 students processed in cap and gown to cheers and shouts of joy from excited family and friends.
Sydney McCurry, president of the Class of 2026 student government, welcomed attendees and thanked school administration, teachers, staff, coaches, family members, and friends for their support. She described graduation not as an ending, but as a transition to new opportunities and experiences.
“While today is an achievement we should be proud of, it is not the destination. What matters most is what comes next and how we move forward from here,” said McCurry. “I am confident that the Class of 2026 is ready to make an impact wherever life takes us, whether we enter the workforce, serve in the military, attend a trade school, or continue our education. We have overcome challenges and created countless memories together, shaping who we are today. I am grateful to have grown alongside each of you.”
Mr. Richard Bonkowski, retiring principal of Pennsauken High School, reflected on the importance of community in education.
“Schools are not defined by buildings or schedules, but by people and by community. Graduates, you did not reach this moment alone,” said Bonkowski. “You were shaped by teachers who stayed late, counselors who listened, coaches who pushed you, advisors who believed in you, and families who supported you in ways both seen and unseen. You are the product of a community that showed up — for performances, games, fundraisers, meetings, and moments of need.”
He also spoke about how impressed he was that so many of the students participated in extracurricular activities during their time at Pennsauken High School.
“Through involvement, you learned how to collaborate, how to lead, how to disagree respectfully, and how to care about something beyond your own success. Those lessons will matter far more than any test score. As you leave this school and step into the world beyond it, I urge you to stay involved. Join communities. Build relationships. Serve where you live. Strong communities are built by people who participate, contribute, and care.
“To the Class of 2026, thank you for giving me the opportunity to spend my final year as principal with you. You will always hold a special place in my heart.”
Salutatorian Julia Nguyen stressed how important it was for her fellow graduates to face their fears head on.
“You have all had opportunities to face your fears head-on, whether it be asking your crush out on a date, overcoming our hybrid freshman year thanks to COVID, or giving a presentation to a class of strangers. Learn from experience; even if you fail, especially if you fail, and try again. Accept the fear of the unknown and use it to accelerate your journey.”
Valedictorian Natalie To advised her classmates to realize that not knowing something can lead to some powerful discoveries.
“I want you all to remember how to say, ‘I don’t know.’ Not knowing has taught me more than any textbook ever has,” said To. “No matter what path you all take after today, remember that it’s okay to not know; it’s the first step in learning. Discomfort is how we grow. Vulnerability is how we bond. I hope that your passion to learn overwhelms your fear of the unknown.”
Superintendent of Pennsauken Public Schools Dr. James Bevere shared with the graduates that their diploma is just the first milestone in a life filled with many accolades and accomplishments.
“Your diplomas are keys to any door you want to open in the future. Keys that will allow you to study further, work, travel, get drafted to the NBA after winning a college national championship, maybe even be the chief architect of an NBA championship team as William Wesley did with the New York Knicks. Your diploma is the key to all your dreams.”
He also reminded the Class of 2026 to keep a connection with their Pennsauken community.
“Remember, you are now and always will be Pennsauken Indians. Go forward and explore the world. But never forget, you can always come home. Class of 2026, the future is officially yours.”
Board of Education member Matthew McDevitt spoke about how the Class of 2026 was among the first students to experience the challenges that brought on by COVID-19, learning from computer screens instead of classrooms.
“But what defines you is not the challenges you faced. What defines you is how you responded to them,” said McDevitt. “When you returned to school, you got involved. You showed leadership. You made your voices heard. You built a school community that reflected your interests, your talents, and your commitment to one another.”
McDevitt highlighted some impressive accomplishments achieved by the Class of 2026, both academically and athletically. But he felt that wasn’t what stood out about the graduates.
“What stands out is your resilience; your determination; your willingness to adapt when circumstances changed. And your ability to support one another and keep moving forward. Class of 2026, you have already overcome challenges that would have discouraged many people. You have proven that you can adjust, persevere, and succeed.”
Janet Jimenez-Merino, Class of 2026 president and a proud first-generation Mexican American, encouraged classmates to recognize their unique purpose and potential.
“No matter what path we choose after today; whether it’s college, the military, the trades, the workforce, or a gap year, we all know that we were placed in this world for a purpose. You have the ability to make an impact wherever life takes you. I truly believe that the class of 2026 will go on and accomplish amazing things, become amazing people and inspire future generations. I know that for many getting here was not easy but always know this: God placed you on purpose for a purpose, it’s up to you to make the best of it.”
The shining moment of the celebration was the culmination of four years of challenges and accomplishments: the awarding of diplomas to the Class of 2026. Proud family members and classmates cheered on the students, as they each basked in this special moment.
“The tradition of moving the tassel to the left after graduating is symbolic of crossing over from high school to another chapter of your life,” said Principal Bonkowski. “At this time, I ask the Class of 2026, as graduates of Pennsauken High School, you may flip your tassels to the left side. Ladies and gentlemen: the Class of 2026!”
The newest alumni of Pennsauken High School processed out of the ceremony and were greeted by loving family and best friends, embracing with tears of joy, ready to continue the celebration of their special day.
Congratulations to the Class of 2026!
