Emmaus High School held its graduation ceremony June 11 at Stabler Arena at Lehigh University with 654 students graduating.

The Class of 1967 was honored for graduating from Emmaus High School 50 years ago.

Principal David Piperato introduced the school board directors and Emmaus High School teachers were recognized. Class advisors and class officers were also recognized and parents were recognized for their love and support of the graduates. Members of the military were also acknowledged.

Piperato talked about the members of the Class of 2017. When these graduates were in second grade, Piperato began his career as principal at Emmaus High School.

“We have great kids, simply put. You are the best. I will miss your collective heartbeat and soul. I am proud to be your principal,” Piperato said.

Piperato introduced Brian Mantone, president of the Class of 2017.

“Four years ago, I started this speech,” Mantone said. “I finished it 10 weeks ago.” And he threw it away.

“Most everybody says it seems like yesterday but in reality, there have been a lot of things that have happened. From the Olympics to various tragedies throughout the world, a lot of events have occurred.”

Lori Gamble, assistant principal for the Class of 2017, introduced the Hall of Fame student from the Class of 2017, Eric Cichocki who shared the advice he received from his father moving forward in all aspect of life. “Swing hard in the batter’s box.” In addition to his academic success, he was also an award winner in basketball, baseball and golf.

Julia Bezems, president of National Honor Society, spoke about the Emmaus High School Chorale.

“Everybody talks about the success of the chorale,” Bezems said. A common question is, ‘Where do their talents come from?’ It is mentioned it’s in the water. Students carried a bright green water bottle with EHS on it and ingredients in the water.

“Sixty years from now, we will be watching neighborhood kids with our spouse or our children or maybe even 10 cats,” Bezems said.

Brandon Durrick spoke as the Lehigh Career and Technical Institute representative. He said his family told him to work hard and do his best. Durrick also said a great part of LCTI education is the fact students can get certification in certain areas.

Declan Schoen, a faculty representative, congratulated all. “This was a daunting task. An important word to remember is empathy. We must always be willing to listen to others.”

Piperato introduced President of the School Board Alan Earnshaw who declared the Class of 2017 graduated.