The energy felt throughout the spacious arena sizzled to match the scorching heat outside in Piscataway.
The class of 2024 commencement ceremony was held at Jersey Mike's Arena on the Rutgers University Campus for the first time before an estimated crowd of 5,000.
The 700-strong Class of 2024 participated in a classy ceremony relished by the audience, including staff, school district administrators and officials, board of education members, family, and friends.
Once the large crowd settled in their seats in the cool and comfortable confines of the arena, the students marched in, accompanied by numerous high school staff members serving as chaperones. Once seated, they listened to the opening remarks by their classmate, Student Council President Isabel Rivera.
The entire arena stood when the high school's choir, comprised of members of the Class of 2024, sang a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem.
Senior Class President Drew Davis delivered the welcome address, and Class Speaker Gracelynne Hao gave the commencement address.
Bridgewater-Raritan High School Principal Dan Hemberger presented the class, and A.J. Joshi, a member of the Board of Education, delivered congratulatory remarks.
Dr Mike Godown, the Assistant Principal for Grade 12, followed with the class honors, and then the presentation of the diplomas was led by Class Readers Rhea Muppane and Annika Warang.
Board of Education members, President Barry Walker, Emily Calistri, Rebecca Hassouna, A.J. Joshi, Lucy Li, Mike Pepe, and Steve Singer, distributed the diplomas to the graduates.
Isabel Rivera delivered the closing remarks; students turned their tassels on their caps to the left and tossed them high in the air, almost reaching the rafters.
Click the below link to read the entire graduation program that lists the names of the Class of 2024.