NFA Bids Farewell to the Goldback Class of 2025

By Journalist Dr. Ms. Jones

NEWBURGH – On Thursday, June 26th Newburgh Free Academy sent off The Class of 2025’s 709 graduates in a heartfelt commencement ceremony. The commencement took place at Academy Field. Co-Principal’s Susan Valentino and Matteo Doddo welcomed the crowd with speeches. Principal Valentino highlighted the importance of hard work and determination.

“Nothing in life comes easy. Success is built one challenge at a time and it’s those tough moments when things feel uncertain, when obstacles feel too big, your true strength shows. Giving up is never the answer. You push forward even when it’s hard, even when it would be easier to stop, because that’s how growth happens. There will be continued twists and turns along the way. Embrace them. Learn from them. You will be a better person for it,” said Principal Valentino, who also encouraged the graduates to remember their roots.
Principal Doddo emphasized the resilience of the Class of 2025. He noted their achievements despite the pandemic.

“Before we send you out to conquer the world, let me remind you of something. You are and will always be a ‘Goldback for Life.’ Being a ‘Goldback for Life’ is more than a slogan or a hashtag. It’s a legacy. You have been part of something powerful here at Newburgh Free Academy. Whether you were part of our CTE programs, dominating and competing in sports, performing on stage, part of the Tech at Marist Programs, creating and leading in student government, and so much more. You have left your mark and you did it with pride and unmistakable, Goldback determination. Let’s be real. This class has seen it all: a pandemic, a pivot to virtual everything, group chat, group chats that somehow included half the school, and yet you rose, you stayed focused, and you found ways to turn challenges into triumphs. That’s what a Goldback does,” said Principal Doddo.

During Principal Doddo’s speech, an unexpected moment of joy unfolded. Several of the graduates suddenly removed their caps and gowns and began to skip towards the side of the field, drawing bewildered and astonished looks from the crowd. Then, with a burst of energy and rhythm, it became clear — it was the NFA Dance Department, breaking into a surprise choreographed performance, which wasn’t in the written program, set to Donna Summer’s “Last Dance.” Principal Doddo reminded the graduates that they are stars and announced the registration of a star in the constellation of Cancer in the International Star Registry named “Goldback for Life.”

The crowd was also greeted by the Class of 2025 Salutatorian Grace Musante and Valedictorian Ryan Wicker. Musante shared how NFA shaped her and encouraged her to seek new opportunities and take pride in her NFA experience. Wicker encouraged the graduating class to pursue their goals courageously.

“You were meant to be here. This moment is yours, and I think that speaks to all of us. We were not just handed this moment, we earned it through early mornings, late nights, setbacks, pressure, and doubt. Every challenge shaped us. Every failure made us stronger. We didn’t just survive. We proved we belong. This moment is ours. Let’s take what we’ve learned and write the next chapter, one that’s bold, fearless, and full purpose,” said Wicker.

Acting Superintendent Dr. Lisa Buon certified the graduates and the Board of Education Members conferred diplomas. Several students displayed their creativity with custom-designed graduation cap toppers to highlight their individuality and celebrate their achievements in a personal way. Others celebrated their heritage by sporting full-sized flags of their native countries, thus adding a meaningful touch to commencement. Some graduates even shared their special moment by walking across the graduation stage with a parent who is an employee of the school district and receiving their diploma from them.

Throughout it all, the graduates kept the environment festive—even tossing beach balls amongst themselves while seated. The party vibe continued after the ceremony as South Street was closed to traffic. It turned into a Block Party, alive with music from parked cars and food vendors on adjacent streets, laughter, and camera flashes! Graduates embraced their family and friends, traded thoughtful gifts, and shared college dreams.

Journalist Ms. Jones