Sanford High Celebrates Commencement
- June 6th 2025
- School News
SHS 2025 Graduates
Photo: Kristie Baker
By Kendra Williams
Sanford High School Alumni Stadium was bursting with joy and anticipation Wednesday night as friends and family celebrated the 230 Sanford High School 2025 graduates. Students entered in a processional to Pomp and Circumstance, played by the SHS Band and the SHS Chorus provided two musical selections before the ceremony began.
Salutatorian Samone Gallagher, in her heartfelt address to the class, reflected on their shared journey of growth, resilience and individuality. Using the metaphor of seeds weathering storms to become something strong and beautiful, she honored the support of teachers, families and peers while celebrating each student’s path. Her message was clear: growth is measured not just by achievements but by perseverance through challenges often unseen. As she put it, “It is one thing to plant a seed and come back four years later, and it is another to be the seed.”
In his warm and witty valedictory speech, Rishi Patel encouraged his classmates to move forward with authenticity, gratitude, and faith. He described graduation as “the moment our cage door swings wide open,” filled with both excitement and uncertainty about what lies ahead. He reminded his peers that while dreams shape their futures, integrity and intention give those dreams direction. Drawing on personal memories, cultural wisdom, and the support of loved ones, Patel emphasized that dreams are only meaningful when guided by values and intention. “When your mind is aligned with your values,” he said, “your actions follow effortlessly.”
Before diplomas were awarded, Principal Tracy Gibson presented prestigious annual awards to four deserving students. The Alumni Cup, given by the Sanford Alumni Association to the senior with the highest number of verified service hours to the school and community, was awarded to Zachary Welch. The Tribune Cup, which recognizes a girl who has demonstrated character, leadership, and exceptional physical and mental achievement, went to Adeline Fiandaca. The Campbell Cup award for the boy who has shown the greatest improvement in athletics, scholarship, and character went to Brady Adams. Finally, the winner of the High School Achievement Cup, recognizing a student in the graduating class for outstanding achievement in major activities of the school was Benjamin Terrill.
Students, individually announced by Senior Class President Alex Lemay, were then awarded their diplomas by Superintendent Matt Nelson and School Committee Chair Amy Sevigny.
The ceremony ended with the new graduates standing on their chairs, facing their family and friends as they sang their class song, “See You Again.” Following a processional to the far end of the field, the new graduates celebrated together by tossing their caps in the air.
After mingling with the crowds, the graduates were off to the Apex Entertainment Center in Marlborough, MA for an all-night chemical free event, sponsored by the committed parents of the Project Graduation Committee and made possible by the generosity of local businesses and community members.
