Guilderland High School’s graduating class celebrated commencement on Friday, June 27, with a heartfelt and inspiring ceremony at the MVP Arena in Albany. The event sent seniors off with powerful messages of encouragement, acceptance and resilience.
In her final address to the Class of 2025 before retirement, Superintendent Dr. Marie Wiles reflected on the pursuit of happiness, calling it a fundamental right equal to life and liberty. She encouraged graduates to view this moment as their own “declaration of independence” and to embrace the responsibility of discovering what brings them true happiness. “My advice to parents,” she said, “let these young adults find their way. Give them the gift of independence, along with the responsibility to use it well.”
Dr. Wiles presented insights from the World Happiness Report, highlighting a study that found a strong connection between the likelihood of a lost wallet being returned and an individual’s belief in the kindness of others. The study revealed that many communities in North America tend to be pessimistic, often underestimating the chances of a lost wallet being returned. In contrast, Nordic countries—such as Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, and the Netherlands—consistently rank among the happiest in the world, largely due to the high levels of trust within their societies.
Dr. Wiles underscored that believing in the goodwill of others can enhance life satisfaction even more than doubling one’s income. She acknowledged the complexities of the modern world, adding with sincerity, “Some of you might wonder how I could be so naive… I’ve cited some data to explain my optimism, but mostly, I’m inspired by all of you.”
Looking out at the sea of red and white, she continued, “I know you to be kind, caring, and passionate. You’ve already made a difference—and that gives me hope.” Dr. Wiles ended her speech with an ardent parting message for the Class of 2025: “Wherever life takes you, I truly just want you to be happy—and I mean it. Thank you and farewell.”
Tristan Valentin addressed his classmates, reflecting on the 1,500 days it took to reach the milestone of graduation—including the chaotic eighth-grade hybrid year at GHS. He noted that each student followed a unique path, yet everyone arrived together, united in sharing this significant moment. Comparing life to a map and a flowing river, he reminded his classmates that change is constant and full of possibility. He encouraged them to embrace the unknown, saying this is not the end, but the beginning of who they are meant to become.
Tristan then thanked parents and guardians in the audience for being a steady source of support through every challenge, sharing how his mother’s determination taught him that he can overcome anything. He closed with a poignant yet simple message to the Class of 2025: “Go live. Don’t be afraid of falling and keep moving forward.”
GHS Principal Mike Piscitelli drew inspiration from President Franklin D. Roosevelt in his commencement speech, highlighting FDR’s perseverance through polio and his leadership during the Great Depression and World War II. Mr. Piscitelli reminded graduates that we’re remembered not for our setbacks, but for how we overcome them.
He encouraged the Class of 2025 to reflect on their own resilience—starting high school during a pandemic and pushing through challenges they didn’t choose. “This moment isn’t just about a diploma,” he said, “it’s about everything it took to get here.” He urged students to face future obstacles as opportunities for growth and closed by congratulating the Class of 2025 and reminding them, “Never forget what you’re capable of.”
Humanities teachers Mike Kinnally and Erin Whalen (Ms. Mac) were introduced by Isabella Wu as guest speakers for the Class of 2025. They reflected on the challenges students had overcome—from tests and group projects to Wi-Fi outages—and praised the resilience they’ve gained along the way.
The pair emphasized that graduation isn’t just about academic success, but about who students have become. Their shared goal, they said, was to prepare students for the world while helping them discover their identities. The duo introduced five lasting values using the acronym “DUTCH”: Dedication, Understanding, Teamwork, Caring, and Humility (and Humor)—traits they believe will serve students well in the next chapter of life. Mr. Kinnally and Ms. Whalen ended their remarks by congratulating graduates and encouraging them to carry these values forward – and to always remember “Go Dutch!”
The commencement program included the senior class video produced by Riley Better and Ilgar Orscek and a musical performance by Guilderland High School Jazz Ensemble led by John Fatuzzo.
You can watch the 2025 Commencement Ceremony on the GHS Media YouTube channel.
