Mepham High School graduating Class of 2025 was celebrated on the football field on June 8 under a canopy of maroon fanfare and Pirate pride. 

Mepham Poet Laureate Vladimir Mkrtchian recited an original poem and the vocal group MephAcapella graced the ceremony with a song, led by Christina Dimitriou. 

Superintendent Michael Harrington, Assistant Superintendent of Business Mikaela Coni, and Board of Education Trustee Nina Lanci were on hand to help congratulate graduates.  

Valedictorian Makayla Daube addressed the crowd, recanting an assignment from her ninth grade English teacher who challenged the class to “thank someone new each day for 100 days.” 

“What seemed simple at first became a powerful reminder of the impact of two small words; ‘thank you,’” she stated. “High school taught me many things, but above all, it taught me the power of appreciation.”  

Reflecting on her past 13 years in Bellmore-Merrick schools, Daube said she is “deeply grateful.”  

“We’ve grown through challenges and triumphs, discovering who we are and who we can become,” she told her peers. “The future belongs to the curious, creative, and courageous. Chase what excites you, stay open to the unexpected, and surround yourself with those who inspire and challenge you.” 

Salutatorian Helen Strite spoke about the importance of being present in the moment and turning challenging moments into life lessons. 

“Remember, the present is the future past,” she noted. “So, what is truly important is the ability to accept past imperfections, to use those lessons learned to be fully present, and to love ourselves into future change. Be proud of yourselves, for you have all achieved so much. Who you were, who you are right now, and who you will be will forever be enough.” 

Click here to view a gallery of Mepham Graduates Class of 2025 photos.