On Friday, June 5, the 385 members of Cedar Crest High School’s 60th graduating class crossed the Commencement stage at Earl W. Boltz Stadium, marking the culmination of their high school journey and the beginning of new opportunities.
Speaking to the seniors’ class motto, “There are no regrets in life, just lessons,” Class President Abena Obuobisa welcomed family, friends, faculty, and staff while encouraging her classmates to continue pursuing the passions they discovered during their time at CCHS.
“As we end this chapter in our lives, we may not realize it now, but Cedar Crest has shaped us into who we are,” Obuobisa said. “It was here that we found our favorite things, our passions. With that in mind, continue to hone those passions, even when it gets hard.”
Building on the theme of growth and perseverance, co-valedictorians Vincent Mattern and Nathan Meng reflected on the experiences that brought their classmates to graduation and encouraged them to embrace the future with confidence.
“Every ounce of effort you have put into your high school career has led you to this moment,” said Mattern. “Whether we move on to college, technical school, the workforce, or the military, each of us will have our own unique journey—don’t compromise on your dreams.”
Meng challenged his fellow graduates to approach the future with optimism.
“Tonight, our tassels move from right to left,” he said. “Tomorrow, we step into a future that none of us can fully predict. But just as we navigated every detour and roadblock that brought us here, we will navigate whatever comes next. So let us embrace the unknown, not with fear, but with excitement.”
Addressing the graduates, Cornwall-Lebanon School District Superintendent Dr. Philip Domencic expressed gratitude to families, faculty, staff, and the community for supporting the Class of 2026 throughout their educational journey.
“It has been our privilege to provide you with opportunities in academics, athletics, the arts, career and technical education, extracurricular activities, and service,” Domencic said. “Through your persistence, determination, and hard work, you have made the most of these opportunities. You earned this moment.”
Before presenting diplomas, CCHS Principal Chris Groff encouraged graduates to carry forward the lessons they learned and continue making a positive impact on the world around them.
“Your path may change direction over time, and your goals may evolve, but never lose sight of the values and aspirations that guide you,” Groff said. “And when obstacles inevitably appear, don't view them as setbacks. View them as opportunities to learn, grow, and become stronger.”
During the ceremony, graduates were also reminded that they reached this milestone during a historic year for the nation. Cornwall-Lebanon School District Board of School Directors President Ruth Ann Schlegel reflected on the significance of graduating during the celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
“As you celebrate this important milestone, may you also remember that your Commencement takes place during the celebration of our Nation’s 250th anniversary, making your graduation part of a truly historic moment,” Schlegel said. “Congratulations on all your accomplishments and best wishes for a safe, happy, and prosperous future.”
Following the presentation of diplomas and the traditional turning of the tassels, the CCHS Class of 2026 celebrated the culmination of years of hard work and the beginning of a new chapter as alumni of the Cornwall-Lebanon School District.