Walking into Allentown Symphony Hall to "Pomp and Circumstance," 139 seniors went to the stage June 3 to participate in the 51st commencement ceremony of the Salisbury High School.

Opening remarks were provided by Superintendent Dr. Randy Ziegenfuss who shared of the graduates, one was a National Merit Commended student, six attended Salisbury's virtual academy, 19 had learned a trade at Lehigh Career and Technical Institute, 123 would be pursuing higher education, five were entering the armed forces and 16 would be going into the workplace.

Ziegenfuss also shared members of the Class of 2015 had received $2.7 million in scholarship money.

"Commit to the journey, not the destination," Ziegenfuss said. "Learn from life's disappointments and failures."

Board member Samuel DeFrank also spoke, congratulating the graduates and welcoming their friends and family members.

DeFrank encouraged the graduates to move beyond their "comfort zone and help others." He shared his memories of coaching some of the students when they played T-ball with the Salisbury Youth Association.

President of the Board Russell Giordano also congratulated the graduates saying this was his last commencement ceremony as a school board member.

"I offer my sincere congratulations on your accomplishments. Nothing makes us [the board] prouder than your conduct and achievements." Giordano also encouraged the graduates to "thank those who have helped you."

Lastly, Giordano read a poem entitled, "Father's Family Name."

President of the Class Marisa M. Butillo thanked SHS, classmates, friends and family for the knowledge and memories. Butillo said she enjoys hearing life advice from everyone, noting "we have all influenced each other."

Salutatorian Michael E. Palmer said the students "have all developed a personal connection with at least one teacher thanks to a small school district.

"This is a start of a new opportunity," Palmer said. He said Salisbury does a wonderful job of giving back to the community with Key Club, the buddy program, blood drives and more."

Noting a classmate dealing with an illness, Palmer said, "a Falcon never fights alone."

Palmer said, "Shake off all the bad memories and remember all the good."

He encouraged graduates to thank parents, family and friends for their support. "And thank God He is always there to help us through it."

Valedictorian Makenna B. Lenover encouraged graduates "to do something worthwhile."

Lenover said the Class of 2015 is full of ambition. "Our success is our mentors' success."

The staff award was presented to Teddy Denver.

The Salisbury Education Association award was presented to Laura Albright.

The Salisbury Educational Support Professional Association award was presented to Pamela Robles.

The Salisbury Alumni Association award was awarded to Makenna Lenover.

A surprise award, presented by SHS Principal Heather Morningstar, was given to Samuel DeFrank. This award was given in recognition of DeFrank's perfect attendance throughout his school career. DeFrank has never been late or missed a day. For that, the audience gave DeFrank a round of applause.

Following the presentation of diplomas, the audience and graduates sang the Salisbury Alma Mater and graduates recessed to "Don't Stop Believing" performed by the Falcon band and chorus, under the direction of Rachel Reinecke.

A reception was held following graduation at the Arts Park.