Family, friends, and faculty gathered on June 18, 2026 to commemorate the 95th Rye High School graduation at Nugent Stadium. The ceremony celebrated the 221 graduates from the Class of 2026.
Accolades, advice, and wisdom were shared to the graduates and packed stands by Rye High School Principle Andrew Hara, RCSD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Tricia Murray, and Board of Education President Jane Anderson.
“This class, the Rye High School Class of 2026, has experienced levels of success unlike any other in Rye High School history,” said Hara. “In a world that constantly measures success, its worth remembering that we as human beings need something more than just accomplishments. We also need connection, we need purpose, and we need to feel that we matter, and that is what I want for all of you.”
Superintendent Dr. Tricia Murray spoke about the graduates’ transitions into a future beyond Rye High School, imploring them to reflect not only on their academic achievements, but their personal growth as well. “In the Rye Commitment we speak often about critical thinking, not simply learning information but analyzing, questioning, synthesizing, [and] growing from experience,” said Murray. “As you leave Rye High School I hope you take the time to reflect not only on what you’ve accomplished here but on who you have become.”
The Latin Oration was given by graduating seniors Carson Miller, Greta Murdock, and Sloane Paul. Other representatives of the Class of 2026 also took the stage during the ceremony. Valedictorian Grace Wang encouraged her classmates to acknowledge the village of people who helped get them to where they are today. The Senior Oration was delivered by Caroline Bartlett who reminded her fellow graduates to “Never have a doubt.” While Salutatorian David Singer reminded the graduating class that the Rye “bubble” would always be here to support them.
The ceremony also included musical interludes. Eliza Chai was accompanied by ASL performers–Alexandra DellaSalla, Margaret Derman, Alexandra Huen, Phoebe Lee, Charlotte Lincoln, Abigail May, and Melisa Pirinccioglu–in her rendition of the national anthem at the beginning of the ceremony. “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus was performed by vocalist Leah Arus, guitarist Hunter Gillies, and drummer Samuel Surak. Fiona Green and Lucas Gordon also performed, singing a duet of “That’s Life” by Frank Sinatra.
Congratulations to the Class of 2026!
