The Branford High School Class of 2024 commencement on the town green June 12 celebrated four years of accomplishments for a group which BHS principal Lee Panagoulias Jr. termed “the most unique class” in school history. The class collectively overcame challenges which began with navigating learning in a global pandemic, and succeeded in many ways including academics, athletics, and the arts.

In caps and gowns of Hornets’ red, 210 seniors formed up to parade onto the Branford green for their commencement opening march, led by student marshals Autumn Blake and Jordan Robinson. After taking their seats, Panagoulias opened the ceremony with a surprise for each of them: fruit-scented scratch-n-sniff cards under each seat.

“You may not be aware, but the sense of smell is a profound trigger for creating lasting memories,” said Panagoulias. “Please reach under your chairs and find a little something to make sure everyone remembers this day that has been long in coming for you. Take a sniff, and make a memory.”

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Chris Tranberg welcomed the graduates, their families and all of those who have supported the students through their journey. Of course, that includes some great friends, much like the story of a some friends named Andy, Woody and Buzz, said Tranberg.

“If you’re a fan of the Toy Story franchise, you might remember, in Toy Story 3, Andy makes the difficult decision to leave his toys behind and heads off to college. This poignant moment mirrors the transition you are all experiencing right now,” said Tranberg. “Leaving behind the familiar halls of Branford High, you step into a world anticipating the possibilities and curiosity of the unknown. It’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. But remember Andy’s lesson: sometimes leaning forward means letting go of the past, while cherishing the memories that shaped us.”

Board of Education (BOE) chairman Peter Berdon reflected on the experiences of the graduates during their years with Branford Public Schools (BPS) which helped to shape their character, build their resilience, and foster lifelong friendships.

“Today is a celebration of your past achievements and also a moment to look ahead with hope and excitement. The world is waiting for your talents, ideas, and contributions. Step forward with confidence, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead,” said Berdon. “Congratulations, Class of 2024. The future is yours. We believe you will make it extraordinary.”

In the BPS tradition, the Valedictorian and Salutatorian were announced from the podium on graduation night, and welcomed to the stage to receive their recognition. Panagoulias introduced Class of 2024 Valedictorian, Travis Le, and Salutatorian, Margaret Lam. Another honor, the Faculty Key award, was presented to Cecile Hazen by Class of 20204 co-advisors Lauren Farrell and Meghan Heath.

Panagoulias presented a very special Class of 2024 honorary diploma to the family of Isabela Osler. He shared memories of the kind and empathetic BHS senior, who lost her life in a motor vehicle accident in March. Osler’s family received a standing ovation as they accepted her diploma.

Class of 2024 vice president Matthew Law introduced his lifelong friend, president Patrick LaLonde, to give the president’s address to his fellow graduates.

LaLonde talked about the fear that resides in everyone when facing the unknown. He also reminded his classmates that they have now been put in charge of their own future.

“Our own success and failure is in our hands alone,” said LaLonde. “I’m not telling you to never be afraid [and] the one thing that I’m not scared about is the well being of this class...I trust in your ability take a hit and get up. We are a group of kids with big personalities, big hearts, and bigger egos. The world is ours. All we have do is go out there and take it.”

Commencement speaker and World Languages teacher Andres Wullart exhorted the Class of 2024 to take ownership of their lives by establishing their own structure and routines, and to forge their own path with discipline. Wullart also took a moment to greet Spanish-speaking families in their native language, with a message of congratulations.

“Happiness, success, and fulfillment stem from focus and self-control,“ Wullart told the Class of 2024. ”We aren’t born with self-discipline. It is a learned behavior. And just like any other skill you want to master, it requires daily practice and repetition. It takes time. It must become habitual.“

He encouraged the Class of 2024 to meet difficult challenges as they will offer opportunities to build confidence.

“You will amaze yourself with the confidence and ability that will be unlocked once you take on the challenge independently,” said Wullart. “As you embark on this new chapter of your lives, remember to embrace every opportunity and every challenge with open arms.”

Ahead of conferring degrees, Panagoulias remarked on the path the Class of 2024 had traversed to reach their graduation day, including starting out as freshmen during the isolation of the pandemic.

“Throughout your time in high school you’ve encountered countless challenges, triumphs, and moments of profound growth. And yet perhaps the most valuable lesson you learned is the art of adaptability,“ said Panagoulias. ”To thrive in the face of adversity, and to emerge stronger and more resilient on the other side. It is a skill that you have honed through your high school years, whether you realize it or not.“

LaLonde, Law, and Class of 2024 secretary Isabella Armellino, treasurer Kaylee Tracy, and social chairs Mason Porras and Grace Ricciardelli, announced each classmates’ name to step up and receive their diplomas and congratulations from BHS, BOE, and BPS officials on the dias.

Musical selections during the ceremony were performed by the BHS band, directed by Mallory Legman, and senior members of the BHS Choir, directed by Mike Martone, Jr.