Valedictorian Jacob Rizzo leads the class of 2024
Genesee Valley Central School (GVCS) hosted its twenty-eighth commencement ceremony on Saturday, June 29, honoring the accomplishments of thirty graduates.
Jacob Rizzo, son of Jaci and Rich Rizzo, earned the title of Valedictorian, graduating with a cumulative grade point average of 94.99.
Kendra Bigelow, daughter of Jennifer and Bill Bigelow, achieved the honor of Salutatorian for the Class of 2024, earning a cumulative grade point average of 94.88. In her salutatory address, Kendra reflected on personal challenges and collective experiences and celebrated the resilience and growth of the Class of 2024. She commented: “to my fellow graduates and everyone who has come here to support us, let us celebrate our accomplishments, cherish the small moments, and look forward to a bright future.”
Diplomas were presented to each graduate by Board of Education Member Heath Gordon, High School Principal Sara Donlon, and Superintendent Dr. Brian Schmitt. Thirteen graduates earned an Advanced Regents Diploma, 16 attended a course of study at the BOCES Career and Technical Education Center, 4 were members of the National Honor Society, and 12 earned a Regents Diploma.
The class of 2024 showcases a diverse range of post-graduation plans. Fifty-seven percent of the graduates have chosen to pursue higher education, with 27% planning to attend two-year colleges and 30% enrolling in four-year colleges. Additionally, 43% percent of the graduates have decided to enter the workforce.
In her class farewell, Jade Rounds expressed pride in her classmates’ achievements and confidence in their future success. “Although this goodbye may be bittersweet,” she expressed, “we are all on to new and better things, and with that, never forget to make the most of your life, take chances, never settle and always be the best ‘you’ you can be. Farewell!”
