Melissa DeLuise of Yonkers, Maria Regina High School’s Class of 2025 Valedictorian, paid tribute to the Greatest Generation as part of her address during recent graduation ceremonies at the renowned all-girls Catholic high school.
Melissa, who will continue her studies at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute majoring in both Engineering and Pre-Law, cited the inspiration that the Greatest Generation’s example holds for her generation. Her comments are an appropriate capstone to Maria Regina’s major initiative to honor the Greatest Generation with special events and student projects underway since May 8, the 80th anniversary of VE-Day, marking victory over the Nazi regime in Europe during World War II
She shared with her classmates and audience of proud family members, alumnae and members of the administration, faculty and staff: “While we reflect back on our high school years with nostalgia or look forward with hope and uncertainty, understand that our real strength doesn’t lie just in our past achievements or future goals—it lies in our character, compassion, and courage. This year marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, in which the Greatest Generation—those who endured the hardships of the Great Depression and rose to fight in World War II—showed the world what bravery, unity, and sacrifice truly meant. We honor and are inspired by the men and women who defended our freedom.
“‘They remind us that there is immense power and potential within each of us. Even when facing adversity, our fortitude, resilience, spirit, and determination are what drive us towards excellence. Our past and future do not solely define us; rather, the values and mindset we choose shape our identity, propel us in life, and push us to influence the world.
She added: “Congratulations, once again, to the outstanding Class of 2025. I wish you nothing but good fortune and the absolute best in your future endeavors. Thank you for being the best class I could have ever imagined. You’ve made these four years special. Go live courageously!”
Principal Maria Carozza-McCaffrey (Class of ’99) noted: “Melissa’s address not only tapped into the emotion for a generation that is sadly fading from the scene whose selfless sacrifices made it possible for freedom to endure. But, it is also very historical as the Class of 2025 was the first Maria Regina class to graduate under the first American Pope. As it turns out, the announcement of the new Pope’s election was also made on May 8 VE Day. It is so fitting that Melissa’s final words to her classmates and all of us who bore witness: “Go live courageously!”
To learn more, visit www.mariaregina.org.
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