Port Jervis High School Class of 2008 Graduation

Their paths will take them in many different directions next year. Many are heading off to college. Others are entering the military or the workforce. But, for one last night, the Port Jervis High School Class of 2008 came together June 27 to celebrate the culmination of 12 years of handwork. For more than two decades, the 217 graduating seniors spent countless days together in the classroom, on athletic teams, in clubs and organizations, and in their neighborhoods. They've gone through good times and bad times. They've made friendships that will last a lifetime. And, they have left an indelible mark on their school and their community.

Many of the students' memories, and hopes for their future, were echoed at graduation by the class speakers. One speaker - who was not listed on the program - brought the class and their standing-room crowd of well wishers to their feet. High School Principal Thomas Bongiovi asked former principal Tony DiMarco to give this year's principal's address. Following a reading of the poem, "The Cold Within," DiMarco offered the graduating class some practical advice. He told them to be kind and compassionate, and to use what they have learned, to help them succeed.        

CLASS VALEDICTORIAN
Melissa Prieto
CLASS SALUATORIAN
Elizabeth Schneider

CLASS SPEAKERS

Justin Ropke   “Live Your Life”
Jake Behnke     “If It Makes You Happy”
Melissa Louis-Jacques   “Live to Become Remarkable”
Class President
Melissa Prieto   “Don’t Be Afraid to Write the Next Page”
Valedictorian

SENIOR CLASS OFFICERS

President   Melissa Louis Jacques
Vice President   Kara Kinne
Secretary   Giovanna Steinhaus
Treasurer   Elizabeth Schneider
Parliamentarian      Amanda Stawski
Social Chairperson  Kristen Manganiello

PRINCIPAL’S EXCELLENCE AWARD RECIPIENTS

SCHOLARSHIPS NOT ANNOUNCED AT GRADUATION
The names of two students who received scholarships were not announced at graduation. The High School staff apologizes for the error and extends its congratulations to these students for the following scholarships: 
Samantha Orr
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Society of Port Jervis $150
Port Jervis High School Parent-Teacher-Student Association Scholarship $300
Business and Professional Women's Club Scholarship $1,000

Caitlyn Conklin
Lieutenant John Krupunich, Jr. Memorial Scholarship $250 

PORT JERVIS HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2008