Hornell High School proudly celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2025. The 144th Commencement Ceremony honored 93 graduates as they concluded their high school careers, marking a significant milestone in their lives.

This year’s ceremony recognized outstanding academic achievements and leadership within the graduating class. Alaina Raish was celebrated as the Valedictorian, while Christopher Hoyt was named Salutatorian. In her valedictorian address, Raish encouraged her classmates to embrace change and new beginnings. “We are going to burn the way back to our old selves and create a new bridge towards our new beginning,” she shared. “Let’s light the match and burn our bridges behind us, not in anger, but with purpose. Let us create our path to a new beginning.” 

Hoyt reflected on the challenges faced during high school, offering a message of resilience. “Through high school I faced many challenges that seemed big in the moment, but in the end I realized that they really weren’t that bad,” he said. “In life you’ll find things that may seem bigger than they really are, but you’ll get through them in the end.” 

The ceremony featured an inspiring address from alumni speaker Joe Racalto, a graduate of the Class of 1989. He gave a strong message of empowerment, “Anything is possible. Today is not simply a day of celebration, it’s a moment of transformation. You are standing on the edge of possibility with the power to not only shape your future, but the future of your community, your country, and the world.” 

Of the 93 graduates, 30 received a Regents diploma with advanced designation, showcasing their academic pursuits. Sixteen students were recognized as honor graduates, and 25 are members of the National Honor Society. Additionally, 6 graduates are members of the NYS Business and Marketing Honor Society, and 16 are members of the BOCES Technical Honor Society. Further highlighting the academic rigor of the class, 11 graduates successfully completed 30 credits of college classes or the equivalent of one full year of college through the Corning Community College ACE program. The Hornell High School community also recognized Sheamus Khork, a dedicated graduate who will be entering the armed forces for the United States.

Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Hornell High School Alumni Association, a substantial $149,500 in grants and scholarships were awarded to graduates. Furthermore, scholarships contributed by local businesses and organizations totaled an additional $83,925, demonstrating the strong community support for the graduating class.

Class President Lillian Hoyt delivered words of farewell, urging her classmates to look forward with optimism. “As we say goodbye to this chapter, let’s look forward with hope, courage, and determination.” 

Congratulations to the Hornell High School Class of 2025!