Beaming graduates in red and white gowns and proud and happy families filled Tilles Center at C.W. Post University for the Syosset High School Class of 2003 Commencement on June 25. The 458 graduates together were awarded a record $9,684,684 in college scholarships based on merit. Two hundred forty-four students graduated with honors in one or more subjects and 29 achieved the highest honors - honors in five subjects.

The ceremonies began with the Syosset High School Orchestra playing Pomp and Circumstance." Graduating seniors took this last opportunity to perform with the group and joined them dressed in their caps and gowns. The graduating senior members of The Adelettes then performed The Star Spangled Banner.

"This is a very special class and it is my honor to present them to the Board of Education for graduation," said Superintendent Carole G. Hankin.

Valedictorian Carly Weinreb spoke to her fellow graduates about the importance of maintaining all the childhood experiences that had shaped their lives and their characters and will continue to have an impact on them in the future. Carly will be attending the University of Pennsylvania in September.

Salutatorian Jared Evans, who is headed for Yale University, gave a creative, thought-provoking speech and Lisa DeGregoris, Class Speaker, reminisced about school memories with her friends.

Syosset Board of Education President Janet Cox, Vice President Dr. Marc Herman and trustees Anthony Alizzi, Maria Anderson, Shari Dorfman, Leonard Kirsch, Patricia Maschio and Ellen Meller participated in the ceremony. After Principal Dr. Jorge Schneider gave the final words of farewell and congratulations, mortarboards were tossed in the air and the ceremonies ended. Congratulations and best wishes to the Class of 2003.