'You've got this.': Principal Vince DiGrandi bids farewell to North Salem's Class of 2026

NORTH SALEM, N.Y. - Before the North Salem High School Class of 2026 received their diplomas on June 15, Principal Vince DiGrandi offered words of wisdom and encouragement:

"Welcome and good evening, students, families, staff, and special guests, to the graduation ceremony for the Class of 2026.

It is a beautiful night for this, and I know these 69 students are eagerly awaiting my 78-minute speech. Ah, first typo I missed... a 7- to 8-minute speech. Phew.

I like to remind myself that the Class of 2026 is also the kindergarten class of 2013-14. Just think about how much has changed around you and how much you have changed. Movies like Iron Man 3, Guardians of the Galaxy, and The Hunger Games: Mockingjay were all the rage, and the nearby UConn Huskies captured both the men's and women's Division I National Basketball Championships in the same season—a historic double win for the program.

That same year, Frozen took the world by storm (see what I did there), and yes, you are all now secretly humming "Let It Go." My apologies, but it was Idina Menzel's Oscar-winning song for Best Original Song. To further confuse parents of kindergarteners, the Grammy-winning song of 2014 was Sam Smith's "Stay With Me." Truly fitting for parents at the time—let them go or stay with me? I'm sure parents felt both ways.

However, as I reflected on this past year, I'd like to begin with my gratitude and thanks. There are many people who played an essential part in the day-to-day running of our school and helped us navigate another successful year.

Think about all that we do each and every year—back-to-school nights, homecoming, awards ceremonies, honor society inductions, our Mental Health and Wellness Fair, the musical, and once again producing a tremendous Tiger Times school newspaper. We had a great OPTIONS Night, and we played a few sports throughout the year. Last I checked, we may have even won back-to-back state soccer championships!

First and foremost, my thanks to Dr. Kate Murphy. Kate, your work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to create positive relationships with students and staff do not go unnoticed. Thank you for being you, for showing up each and every day, for steering the ship with me, and for keeping it off the icebergs. I appreciate you and all that you do. I wish you all the best in your new endeavor. Thank you.

Mrs. Shames, you have been a truly outstanding addition to the North Salem family. Your student-first mentality, professionalism, and daily passion for improving the learning environment for both students and staff continue to enhance MSHS. Thank you.

The same holds true for our wonderful administrative assistants—Brigida D'Alesandro, Lauren McGuire, and Melissa Armstrong. Your professionalism, focus on detail, and uncanny ability to solve most problems in under 30 seconds are truly remarkable.

A special thank-you to our 12th-grade advisors, Mrs. Johnson and Mrs. Murphy. In their first year "running the show," they both did an outstanding job, and their work is greatly appreciated.

And although today is all about the students, I would be remiss if I did not mention the large elephant in the room.

Or, to be more accurate, the GOATs in the room.

Retirement is gaining some GOATs this year—Mr. Austin, Mrs. Blessing, Mrs. DeMorris, Mrs. Quigley, Mr. O'Callaghan, Mrs. Bratt, and Mr. Hendrie. Together, they represent approximately 200 years of educational experience. I have no words for all the passion you have brought to North Salem and for the countless lives you have positively impacted. Thank you all.

And now to the Class of 2026.

Each year, I take time to reflect and try to give you my best effort when it comes to what's next, lessons learned, and some tangible advice that may help you navigate your path—whatever that path is and wherever it may take you.

I read everything I can and try to summarize the highlights as best I can without going on for too long. I usually find two or three points that I like to speak about and hopefully points you might remember. Tonight, I found five essential takeaways.

So here goes.

I am an acronym guy. I love acronyms. It's how I study, remember topics, and organize ideas, so please bear with me.

When I attended high school, this was true, and often, to this day, it remains true: for better or worse, we label people. There were the jocks, or as you learned in eighth-grade English while reading The Outsiders, there were the Greasers and the Socs.

I know labels are not always politically correct or appropriate, but like this senior class, I'm leaving as well, so here goes.

I have reflected on my past nine years at North Salem and have decided that what the world needs is more NERDS—N-E-R-D-S—my acronym.

Those who are Noble.

People who live by a high moral standard. People who not only root for the underdog but who stand up and speak up when there is an imbalance of power. They give a voice to those who may not have one or who are unable or afraid to speak.

I don't know if it was the great writer Mark Twain or the great philosopher and coach Ted Lasso who said these words: "It is never wrong to do the right thing."

They knew that choosing integrity over convenience provides peace of mind that never fades, even when the immediate path gets tough.

Those who are Empathetic.

Individuals who can both see and understand the perspectives of others, especially those in need. They pause and reflect on their place in the world and can metaphorically walk in another person's shoes. They listen for understanding—not simply to respond, but so others can be heard.

This is a learned skill.

Those who are Resilient.

Life will throw obstacles your way. It often happens when you least expect it. Usually, you have two choices: you can wallow and let it consume you, or you can breathe, pause, learn from it, and become stronger.

The best lessons in life often come after one of these challenges. It's not a matter of if it will happen, but when.

Remember: You've got this.

Those who are Determined.

Determined to make a positive change in the world. Maybe in some small way—in your school, town, county, or state. Or maybe go big.

Be the change you want to see in this world.

When you put your mind to it, I truly believe there is nothing you cannot attain. Have a plan. Work the plan. Be disciplined and be consistent.

It will happen.

Determined people find a way, and they succeed.

And finally, those who have a Seriousness of Purpose.

Sadly, high school ends today. That doesn't mean you haven't already demonstrated a seriousness of purpose to get to this point. Continue that mindset.

Put in the effort.

Show up on time.

Control your attitude and how you react to life.

Author Charles Swindoll's quote hangs on the wall in my office:

"Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it."

I hope your teachers, the staff, and I have helped you see that it's okay to be NERDS. Embody those ideals. Take what works for you and leave the rest.

Be successful however you define success—in business, in family, or in life.

So, to our seniors, to the Class of 2026, I hope I have given you some worthwhile advice as you finish your time at North Salem and move on to the workforce, the military, or further your education at a college or university.

Go out and inspire others!

I wish you all much success in your future endeavors, and remember:

Once a Tiger, always a Tiger!"