As is tradition, seniors tossed their caps into the air after being named graduates. General Douglas MacArthur High School seniors marked a momentous occasion as they reached the culmination of their years in Levittown Schools at the 63rd commencement ceremony held at the Hofstra University David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex on June 22.

Families packed the bleachers and made their cheers heard as seniors processed to "Pomp and Circumstance" performed by the band under the guidance of Joseph Romano. Class of 2024 President Anastasia Angelakis led the Pledge of Allegiance before senior choir members, led by Lisa Levenberg, sang the national anthem and "Slipping Through My Fingers" by ABBA.

MacArthur Principal Joseph Sheehan welcomed guests and urged graduates to keep moving forward into the future. "Be ready to embrace the new experiences that lie ahead and step on to that road to the future with steadfast confidence," he said. "Have faith in your own abilities, work hard, and there is nothing you cannot accomplish... I strongly encourage you to take advantage of every opportunity that presents itself to you and seize the moment."

Mr. Sheehan also paid tribute to Assistant Principal Anne Rao, who is a MacArthur Class of 1986 graduate and will be retiring at the close of the school year. "Mrs. Rao, on behalf of all the members of Generals Nation and the MacArthur High School family," he said, "thank you for all you have done in ensuring MacArthur High School was, still is, and will always be the best high school ever."

Superintendent of Schools Todd Winch reminded graduates that they are fully prepared to take on the challenges that may lie ahead. "This moment signifies not just the closing of a chapter, but also the start of an exhilarating new one," he said. "Embrace the uncertainty that accompanies new beginnings. Life is a journey of exploration, unveiling opportunities along the way."

Salutatorian Benjamin Campbell addressed his peers and urged them to take joy in the little moments. "It's hard to not constantly get caught up in chasing success," he said, "but don't forget to enjoy the happy moments... When it feels like everything in the world is against you, find those little things that you simply love and feel grateful for."

Anastasia Angelakis returned to the podium to reflect on the hurdles she and her peers have overcome. "Freshman year was a blur," she said. "I don't want to focus on Covid-19 and the pandemic, but it's important to acknowledge how it completely defined our experience and shaped the Class of 2024 in profound and challenging ways... Nevertheless, we learned the importance of adaptability and resilience, setting the foundation for the years ahead."

Valedictorian Zarif Jamal thanked the family members and staff who have helped his peers reach this milestone. He reflected on the "golden rule" - "Treat others the way you want to be treated."

"Kindness and respect - the golden rule," he said. "Without the golden rule, we would be living in a world full of disrespect. However, those who stand their ground to be respectful of others are the ones who strive toward happiness."

Seniors joined fellow musicians in the symphonic band to perform "Alvamar Overture" before a commemorative video produced by students featuring dozens of MacArthur memories was shown.

Board of Education First Vice President Peggy Marenghi congratulated graduates before beginning the conferring of diplomas. Each graduate crossed the stage and shook hands with trustees and administrators. Following the symbolic turning of their tassels, mortarboards were launched into the air, marking the Class of 2024's becoming alumni of Levittown Schools.

General Douglas MacArthur High School salutatorian Benjamin Campbell and valedictorian Zarif Jamal stood with Assistant Principals Terence Ryan and Anne Rao and Principal Joseph Sheehan before the commencement ceremony on June 22.Senior choir members sang the national anthem and 'Slipping Through My Fingers' by ABBAGraduates entering various branches of the Unites States Armed Forces were individually recognized.Class of 2024 President Anastasia Angelakis addressed her peers.Diplomas were proudly displayed by graduates.