June 1st, 2026 marks the Sixtieth Commencement for the Class of 2026. Right from 6 o’clock pm, the senior’s faces were lit up by their smiles, courage, and their dedication throughout their entire high school career. Whether they started Doherty as a freshman, transferred, or had a straight/rocky path prior to graduation, all roads to the commencement are applauded for the teenagers who are making their pre-k and kindergarten selves proud.
The Jazz Ensemble kicked off graduation by performing Pomp and Circumstance. Shortly following, the salute to the flag and national anthem was led by Wayland Whitney Williams, the Senior Class President. Making his speech to his fellow Highlanders, he starts off by thanking his beloved family and gives advice to his classmates. Valedictorian Kleri Morcka also read her valedictory essay, hitting on all the memories the seniors will cherish forever.
Class officers Emmanuela Pedrosa Nascimento, Caroline Elizabeth Roy, and Paola Renxa introduced different guest speakers of the evening, whereas Principal John Staley started with welcoming in the Class of 2026. He recognized all the hard work students as well as families put into their high school journey. He acknowledged Harris Thompson Wolobah who passed on, he will forever be remembered in the Class of 2026 to those who knew him, with the recalling of memories to those who missed out on his adoring spirit.
Later hearing from Chairman of the School Committee Mayor Joseph M. Petty, School Committee Member Jermaine Johnson, and Superintendent of Schools Brian E. Allen, gratitude was shared all around along with the announcements of what awards some students received, then ending with Superintendent Brian E. Allen and his heartwarming yet humorous Superintendent’s Address.
Graduates walked the stage soon after, acquiring their diplomas. Cheers so loud to fill the whole DCU arena, these graduates are heavily praised for every aspect of their journey.
Taking it away with Jazz playing Fanfare and Recessional, the graduates walked their final steps as a Doherty High student, now walking in their first steps to the rest of their beautiful lives.
