The 2024 Emmaus High School graduation ceremony began with the usual “Pomp and Circumstance” processional, performed by the EHS Orchestra led by Connie Arnold. This was followed by the “Star-Spangled Banner.”

The EHS Chorale, led by Julia Wallace, sang the alma mater which was written by Robert Iobst and Rachel Hauser, Class of 1932.

EHS Principal Beth Guarriello introduced the Class of 2024. She spoke of the achievements of students, the work of teachers and staff and the excitement of accomplishment. “Today is a great day to be a Hornet!”

Ryan Baig, president of the Class of 2024, talked about the accomplishments achieved by the class. “What a wonderful gang! Pat yourselves on the back,” Baig said. “We’ve had great support from friends, family, teachers and your fellow classmates. Please give a large round of applause for our co-officers. We are the architects, ready to shout! ... Let’s build a future together.”

EHS Assistant Principal Nicole D’Emilio, announced the Hall of Fame Inductee, Angela Tran, chosen by the faculty. She had a 4.63 GPA, excelled in many subjects, was also the class secretary and will attend Harvard University in the fall. Her portrait will hang in the library with other distinguished students. D’Emilio said Tran is an inspiration to many.

Guarriello presented the military and academic recognitions with the orchestra performing “The Armed Forces Salute” medley with individual salutes to all branches of the military. Honored were those entering the military, those who are currently serving and those who have served.

As commencement proceedings continued, graduating students were congratulated individually by East Penn School Board President Dr. Joshua Levinson and district Superintendent Kristin Campbell.

Kayra Gokce, president of National Honor Society, spoke about opportunities. She also expressed her gratitude to teachers, staff and influential people. She will be attending Penn State in the fall.

“It is important to uplift each other,” Gokce said. She said encouragement for each other is essential and expressed her gratitude for one of the newer programs at EHS called student mentorship where seniors help freshmen adjust and assist with changes.

Rishi Baveja, the Lehigh Carbon Technical Institute representative, spoke about learning by doing as he shadowed medical personnel. He even worked with a cadaver. “It was a perfect balance of hands-on.” It was a gift he will always cherish.

Baveja talked about a life skill learned in the district. In elementary school, he learned how to buy things with “the card.” He said it was magical during those years, not knowing bills had to be paid. Then in middle school, cash became the “real thing.”

In high school, “care” became the important word as it was a difficult time during the early years due to COVID-19. Baveja’s will attend Cornell University in the fall.

Isabella Madison Sparaco, class representative, expressed her gratitude for teachers, staff and her parents. She moved into the district in her early years at the high school which was difficult but she managed to achieve good grades, make new friends and achieve her goals. “Believe that you have and you will have it,” Sparaco said.

At the conclusion of the speeches and individual presentations to the students, Levinson declared the students graduated.

“The Brandenburg Sinfonia” was performed by the orchestra for the recessional.