The Suffolk County School Superintendents Association (SCSSA) held its 32nd Annual Valedictorians Luncheon at Villa Lombardi in Holbrook on May 28, honoring the top-performing graduates of the Class of 2026 in Long Island County, NY.
This event brought together school district superintendents, high school principals, special guests, top students and their families to celebrate academic achievements and future aspirations.
SCSSA Vice President and Smithtown Central School District Superintendent of Schools Dr. Mark Secaur welcomed attendees; Afterwards, SCSSA President and Kings Park Unified School District (UFSD) Superintendent of Schools Dr. Timothy Eagen addressed the graduates, recognizing the dedication and perseverance that led to their high school achievements.
“This afternoon is about hard work, perseverance and the pursuit of knowledge,” said Dr. Eagen. “Each of the students we honor has demonstrated not only exceptional academic ability, but also dedication, discipline, and a commitment to making the most of every opportunity available to them at their high school.”
Dr. Eagen reminded students that becoming valedictorian of your class reflects years of effort and determination. “Being the best student is not reduced to a single exam or assignment,” he noted. “It reflects years of curiosity, hard work and resilience.”
Guest speaker Jason Silbergleit, director of the Americas at Classiq and former vice president of research, business development and alliances at IBM, encouraged students to continue learning and embrace the opportunities that the future holds.
“As we begin this new chapter, I leave you with some reflections,” Silbergleit said. «Never stop learning. From now on, your growth will be self-directed, and you have the ability to change the world in ways none of us have yet imagined.
The top students were then called to the stage—accompanied by their school district superintendent and their high school principal—to receive certificates of recognition, commemorative plaques, and copies of Dr. Seuss’ book “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” (Oh, the places you’ll go!).
During closing remarks, SCSSA President-Elect and Remsenburg-Speonk Unified School District (UFSD) Superintendent of Schools Denise Sullivan also congratulated the students on their achievements and the great potential they have for the future.
“We are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished and can’t wait to see the impact they will have on the world,” Sullivan said.
