Suffolk County School Superintendents Association recognizes Suffolk County Class of 2026 Valedictorians
Congratulations!
The Suffolk County School Superintendents Association hosted its 32nd annual Valedictorians Luncheon at Villa Lombardi in Holbrook on May 28, honoring Suffolk County’s highest-achieving Class of 2026 graduates.
The annual event brought together school district superintendents, high school principals, special guests, valedictorians and their families to celebrate the academic accomplishments and future aspirations of the county’s top students.
SCSSA Vice President and Smithtown Central School District Superintendent of Schools Dr. Mark Secaur welcomed attendees before SCSSA President and Kings Part UFSD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Timothy Eagen addressed the graduates, recognizing the dedication and perseverance that led to their achievements.
“This afternoon is about hard work, perseverance and the pursuit of knowledge,” Dr. Eagen said. “Each of these students we are honoring this afternoon has demonstrated not only exceptional academic ability but also dedication, discipline and a commitment to making the most of every single opportunity available to them at their high school.”
Dr. Eagen reminded students that becoming a valedictorian reflects years of effort and determination.
“Being a valedictorian is not about a single test or assignment,” he said. “It reflects years of curiosity, hard work and resilience.”
Guest speaker Jason Silbergleit, Head of Americas at Classiq and former vice president of research, business development and partnerships at IBM, encouraged students to continue learning and embrace the opportunities ahead.
“As you begin this next chapter, I leave you with a few thoughts,” Silbergleit said. “Never stop learning. From this point forward, growth becomes self-directed, and you have the ability to change the world in ways that none of us have yet to imagine.”
The valedictorians were then called to the stage alongside their school superintendent and high school principal to receive certificates of recognition, plaques and copies of Dr. Seuss’ “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!”
During closing remarks, SCSSA President-elect and Superintendent of Schools for the Remsenburg-Speonk UFSD Denise Sullivan also congratulated the students on their accomplishments and future potential.
“We are incredibly proud of all you have accomplished, and we are eager to see the impact you have on the world,” Sullivan said.
