Nearly 200 Diplomas Awarded at Beacon Graduation

By Jennifer L. Warren

WAPPINGERS FALLS – Fay and Jay Jones proudly hoisted the two, impressive-sized, lifelike, radiant images of their soon-to-be graduating children, Cashmiere and Londyn, as high as their arms would extend, welcomed by loud cheers, while they entered Heritage Financial Park Thursday night.

“It’s absolutely amazing,” said mother, Fay, of the Beacon High School twins. “It’s so special to have them go both go through their whole school journeys together; we just love them so much.”

Her husband, Jay, could wryly be heard chanting, “empty nesters,” adding how proud he is of the sibling duo about to share the stage, signifying a pivotal rite of adolescent passage.
Cashmiere, a standout safety football player at BHS, will continue his gridiron career as he pursues his studies at the University of Buffalo; while sister, Londyn, will stay local, attending Dutchess Community College with a major in radiology. The two seniors, clad in their cap and gowns’ school colors: blue and gold, could be spotted in the grandstands at the baseball park, surrounded by BHS Class of 2025 classmates, soaking in the animated energy of their parents, eagerly awaiting Commencement festivities.

A little after 7:00 pm and once, the close to 200 graduates took their seats on the infield, High School Principal, Dr. Corey Dwyer, provided the Welcome and Opening Remarks.
“You have enriched our lives more than you know,” said Dr. Dwyer, as he proceeded to recount an ensemble of memorable moments defining the Class of 2025. “As you set sail, always know: We will be rooting for you.”

Following Dr. Dwyer’s words, Flora Stadler, President of the Board of Education spoke, delivering three key lessons she wished graduates to carry with them on their post-high school journeys. Pointing to the power of saying “yes,” realizing failing is sometimes part of the process and not worrying but embracing life unraveling as it should, Stadler showed how each truism applied to and enriched her own life. She then alluded to some iconic Whitney Houston lyrics.

“You are our future,” affirmed Stadler.

That future includes a Class that received 48 different local awards and scholarships, spanning academics, the arts, military commitment, community involvement as well as athletics. It also bore the distinction of 30 National Honor Society members, 20 BOCES CTI graduates, three New York State Seal of Biliteracy recipients, 13 TRI-M Society members, 74 Seal of Civic Readiness Recognitions, as well as a Vietnam War Veteran, Harvey Bowers, Operation Recognition special classmate. It’s further a group that will be attending 54 different colleges and universities throughout the country; while some will be going on to a military career and others will be directly entering the workforce. Each member has and will continue to make a difference.

“Participation and good intentions are signs of a life well lived,” said Superintendent, Dr. Matthew Landahl. “Class of 2025: You have those things.”

That participation piece was elaborated upon by Class Salutatorian, Addison Miller, in her remarks.

“Every single one of us has contributed something to this Class,” said Miller. “We are celebrating our journeys-not our accomplishments or awards- because what will matter in our lives is continuing to show up for ourselves.” Miller, after relating her own experiences with trying to fulfill elusive ideals, oftentimes to little-no avail, advised, “The world doesn’t need a perfect you, it needs a real you.”

Another student who spoke was the 2025 Class Valedictorian, Anabelle Arginsky. Initiating her speech with the power of being present, Arginsky had everyone “pause and take in the moment of transition and opportunity.” Focusing her remarks on three adjectives: proud, embarrassed and grateful, Arginsky also spoke about the inclusiveness her Class showed, particularly on its class trip.

“We really came together, and it was so inspiring to see,” said Arginsky. “Regardless of where we end up, we showed we can have energy and love for one another.”

Arginsky left her classmates with the need “to leave inhibitions at the door” while always maintaining a genuine sense of curiosity in life.

“There is a certain amount of judgment that will always be there,” said Arginsky. “However, don’t let it get in the way of curiosity.”

And just as Dr. Dwyer, spoke of the Class of 2025 enriching the lives of the BHS faculty and staff, that transformative magic was felt by its members as well.

Reflecting upon her senior year, spanning “Senior Sunrise” to “Senior Sunset,” Class President, Mackenzie Phillips, said, “This year, has been filled with people who wanted us to succeed.”