Under clear skies and a blazing sun, 641 graduating seniors from Vineland High School gathered on June 18 to grace the field at the renowned Gittone Stadium for the 146th annual Commencement Ceremony.
The crowd erupted in cheers as the graduating students made their way to their seats on the turf, filling the stadium with excitement. Numerous graduates showcased their creativity through vibrant, decorated caps, symbolizing the challenges they overcame in recent years and their aspirations for the future.
Special guests at this graduation ceremony included members of the graduating class of 1974, celebrating their 50th year out of high school.
Vineland High School South principal Jacqueline Roman-Alvarez officially began the ceremony by welcoming the students, parents, and other guests and extending her heartfelt congratulations to the senior class.
“Class of 2024, as you begin your new chapter, remember that today marks not the end but the beginning of a journey filled with endless opportunities,” Roman-Alvarez said. “Your futures are bright, and the possibilities are limitless.”
Following Roman-Alvarez was Senior Class President Denise Gonzalez. Gonzalez reflected upon several highlights from senior year and is confident the best is yet to come for the Class of 2024.
“I never pictured having this moment, and I definitely could not grasp that this would be one of the final moments I have with those I have grown up with for years or just clicked with the other day,” Gonzalez said. “But it’s here, it’s beautiful, and it’s absolutely not the last time you see Vineland’s Class of 2024 shine.”
Gonzalez then presented principals Roman-Alvarez and Justin Adams with the senior class gift. The gift is an outdoor classroom in an exterior space next to the cafeteria. The gift will include benches built by our CTE students and planters with plants provided by our agriculture classes.
VHS Tanner Building principal Justin Adams then spoke a few words in honor of Sai Vasireddy, who passed away earlier this year. Llano and Roman-Alvarez presented her family with her diploma.
Adams then introduced Michaela Giuliani, poet laureate, who read an original poem, “Dear Graduate.”
Vineland Mayor Anthony Fanucci, whose son, Vincenzo, is also a member of the Class of 2024, spoke on kindness and strength.
“Life is more about being diplomatic and finding ways to harness your strength for the betterment of others, which leads back to being kind,” Fanucci said. “Thursday morning I challenge you, one last time, to remember how great today was, but how you’re going to wake up and be even greater.”
Student Government Association president Gyanna Porreca followed Fanucci. Porreca encouraged her classmates to continue to learn and grow as they experience more of the world.
“As we step into the next phase of our lives, let's remember that we hold the power to shape our future,” Porreca said. “We have the chance to define our identities and set our goals. Embrace every moment in the coming year, making the most of each experience. Enjoy the journey and seize the opportunities that come your way.”
Board of Education member Inez Acosta spoke after Porreca, dedicating her speech to her daughter, Lianna Velazquez.
“Your journey has been filled with determination and hard work,” Acosta said. “From your first steps to this momentous graduation, you’ve shown strength, courage, and a commitment to social justice. You never hesitate to lend a helping hand.”
Superintendent Alfonso Llano took the stage next, hyping up the crowd as the speeches neared their conclusion. He also offered a few words of wisdom to the graduates.
“Class of 2024, you're on the launchpad to a future bursting with possibilities,” Llano said. “Remember the core lessons of hard work, empathy, and adaptability that you've learned here. Success isn't just about the job title or the paycheck—it's about the lives you touch and the fulfillment you find along the way.”
Following Llano was Board of Education president Kimberly Codispoti, who encouraged the students to pursue their dreams and continue to learn.
“Continue to learn, grow, and pursue your passions with enthusiasm and determination,” Codispoti said. “Your education is a lifelong journey, and the possibilities are endless. Today, we celebrate your achievements and look forward to the bright futures that lie ahead for each of you.”
The ceremony concluded with students receiving their diplomas by twos and then exiting the platform on their way to new lives in higher education, military service, and employment. Adams had a few words for the students before the traditional tassel turn.
“Make every day meaningful,” he said. When you wake up tomorrow morning, wake up with purpose, drive, and determination to make a positive difference in the lives of those you can.”
The Commencement Exercises were videotaped by VPS TV and can be viewed on our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SSePwx8Ldg
Click on the link below for a gallery of still photos of the 2024 Commencement: https://bit.ly/3zbvb5S
Please note that T&F Camera took the individual photos of the students receiving their diplomas. Families will receive a link to those photos at a later date.