By Chuck Stewart, Jr.
Newburgh -
Despite the heat and humidity, more than 600 Newburgh Free Academy seniors graduated during the school’s 155th commencement exercises last Thursday.
The students lined up in front of Newburgh Free Academy for the last time before becoming graduates.
Shortly before seven, the sea of blue and gold graduation gowns processed down South Street before entering Academy Field.
Spectators yelled and cheered for students as they marched onto the field to the traditional "Pomp and Circumstance."
Salutatorian Bianca DiCocco thanked everyone who helped the graduates get to where they are today.
"Parents, grand parents, teachers, guidance counselors, you all helped us get thru NFA," she said. Therefore, it was not only a graduation, but a celebration of all those who helped contribute to the graduates success.
Valedictorian Priya Patel challenged her fellow graduates to excel beyond Newburgh and NFA. Some will be entering service academies, others, college, and still others, the work force.
"I see the ability for success for everyone here," she said. Reminding them that "if you don’t get your way, try a different route."
NFA Principal Peter Copeletti congratulated the graduates and told them how proud he was of each and every one of them. Some were crowned state or regional champs in their perspective sport. 108 of the graduates achieved Senior Honors (average 89.5 and above)-a new school record.
Sierra Lewis, who received Senior Honors, will be attending The King’s College in the fall to study Politics, Philosophy and Economics.
"I was excited about my senior year - Senior Skip Day, prom, graduation - now its over and I’m ready to move on with my life," she said.
Regardless of where life takes these graduates, they will always be NFA Goldbacks.
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