WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. (June 24, 2026) — New Rochelle High School marked its 128th commencement exercises with 590 graduating seniors receiving diplomas at the Westchester County Center. The Class of 2026 celebrated numerous achievements, including acceptances to Ivy League schools and prestigious scholarships.
“No two people in this room were ever supposed to have the same story,” said Class of 2026 President Stone Pride. “This isn’t just a graduating class. It’s a room full of possibilities, and that’s what makes this moment so exciting.”
Valedictorian Corey Seelenfreund encouraged his peers to embrace new challenges. “By having the opportunity to make your own decisions, you’ll have the opportunity to explore what matters most to you,” he said.
Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert expressed pride in the graduates, stating, “We are so very proud of each and every one of you; not just today, but every day when you show up and work hard.”
Student Government President Carlos Del Aguila urged classmates to love fiercely. “While you are still young, while your heart still beats, and while you can still speak, love,” he said.
NRHS Alumnus and Board of Education President William Iannuzzi advised graduates to face adversity and succeed. “Your future is not defined by what has happened to you,” he noted.
Superintendent Dr. Corey W. Reynolds praised the graduates’ “One New Rochelle” spirit. “We see that brilliant spirit in your diverse talents, our artists, musicians, and performers,” he said.
Principal Dr. Dagoberto Artiles emphasized a bright future for the graduates. “This is just the beginning, not the end of a journey,” he remarked.
The Class of 2026 boasts seven Ivy League acceptances, five QuestBridge Scholars, and one National Merit Scholar. Approximately one-third of students graduated with a GPA of 3.75 or higher, and 420 graduates will attend college or university.
The diverse career paths of graduates include 22 entering trades, 11 joining the Armed Forces, 34 entering the workforce, and four taking structured gap years.
This article was prepared with the assistance of AI tools under the direction and editing of Robert Cox.
Have information about this story? Email robertcox@talkofthesound (preferred) or contact via WhatsApp: +353 089 972 0669.