Cinnaminson High School’s Class of 2026 celebrated graduation below sunny skies at George D. Paternoster Memorial Stadium on June 18.
Before he shared a few encouraging words, Principal Ryan Gorman thanked the parents and families for molding the alumni into who they are today. The success of the district is a direct result of their support and dedication, Gorman remarked, and they have repeatedly proven to be outstanding partners.
“Success isn’t about becoming what other people expect you to be,” he said. “Success is having the courage to become who you are. That requires confidence. Not confidence that everything will work out perfectly, but that you’ll never fail. Confidence that you are capable of learning, adapting, growing and finding your way.”
The good news, according to Gorman, is that all 246 graduates aren’t beginning their journey empty handed. Over the last four years, they’ve built a tool kit and learned how to think critically, communicate effectively, solve problems, collaborate with others, overcome setbacks and persevere when things become difficult.
“As you leave Cinnaminson High School, I hope you embrace both the freedom and the responsibility that comes with this next chapter,” the principal noted. “Be bold in how you define yourself; be confident in the path you choose. The story of your life will not look like anyone else’s. It only needs to be authentically yours.”
Getting on the bus the first day of freshman year meant more than just taking a step for valedictorian Olivia Golla. It meant that she was stepping into her future, something new, she related. For her and her peers, commencement was about standing in the difference between what they’ve always known and going off on their own.
“Our next steps are different,” Golla continued. “Now, we are striding into our independence. Our safety net is not right there anymore, and that might make tasks seem impossible. However, every step we’ve taken so far has shown us that we have the courage and the determination to lead the way.”
No matter where he and his peers go next there will be new challenges, new opportunities and new lessons awaiting, offered salutatorian James Kuzowsky. There will be moments of uncertainty, but those moments are well worth it and from his perspective, the class of 2026 has already proven that they can adapt, persevere and succeed.
“As we leave Cinnaminson High School, I hope we continue to embrace growth, not just in our careers or education, but in our character,” Kuzowsky pointed out. “ … As we step into the future, let’s carry with us the lessons we’ve learned, the friendships we’ve made and the gratitude we have for our families and teachers who helped us get here.”
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CHS alumni seized the moment with a selfie.
