UTICA — Students from Thomas R. Proctor High School gathered on Friday at the Adirondack Bank Center at the Utica Memorial Auditorium as they celebrated one of the largest commencement ceremonies in the area.

The class of 2022 walked through the arena to thunderous applause from friends and family in attendance.

After a presentation of national colors by the Proctor NJROTC Color Guard and a performance of the national anthem by the Senior Choir and Show Choir, Principal of Thomas R. Proctor High School Joshua Gifford addressed the graduating class and remarked on their achievements during such an unprecedented time.

“This day marks the culmination of your high school career and yes, it’s been a wild ride for sure,” Gifford said. “This year has been tough to say the least. After all, you dealt with challenges that no one else has ever encountered, ever. However, to your credit, you persevered, we made it work and here we are today watching you get ready to take the next steps in your lives.”

Many people in attendance couldn’t contain their excitement and would often shout and cheer for the graduates throughout the ceremony.

Utica City School District Superintendent Bruce Karam and Board of Education President Louis LaPolla both offered their remarks to the graduating class on their success of becoming a high school graduate. Valedictorian John Nguyen and Salutatorian Grace Simmons both offered their remarks on their journey throughout high school and offered advice for their fellow graduates.

“The past is done and your present and future are what guides you to become the best version of yourself,” Nguyen said. “We all fall in the habit of remembering a minuscule moment in time. Doing that only puts you on a treadmill looking at past history rather than a marathon towards the future. Be the change you want to see today and work to be the version of yourself you want tomorrow.”

After a final performance by the Senior Choir singing their ‘Alma Mater,’ students were called up one by one to receive their high school diploma.

To view a gallery of photos taken at the commencement ceremony, visit: romesentinel.com/stories/gallery-proctor-high-school-graduation-june-24-2022,136840