Congratulations on Graduating, Class of 2023!

Archbishop Molloy High School would like to congratulate the 333 graduates of our Class of 2023! On Sunday, June 4th, seniors attended their Commencement Ceremony at St. John’s University’s Carnesecca Arena. Friends, family, faculty, and staff applauded as Stanners accepted their diplomas and moved their tassels from right to left, signifying the end of their high school journey.

During the ceremony, Salutatorian Stutee Oke ‘23 and Valedictorian Nancy Sun Zilz ’23 each delivered speeches reflecting on their time at Molloy while providing hope for the future, as well as thanking their friends and family for their love and support. Stutee shared that she experienced growth through Science Research with Ms. Mallia and Peer Groups with Br. Eugene. She encouraged the Class of 2023 to not let their friendships fade as they head off to different schools, because “true friendships only need a place to start, and a time to grow.” Nancy acknowledged the resilience of the Class of 2023, who overcame the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and online learning during their high school careers. She thanked her teachers and counselors for nurturing and guiding her, and helping her to feel seen. In turn, Nancy encouraged her classmates to “be the person that makes others feel special and not alone.” She also gave a special shoutout to Br. Eugene, calling attention to the Marist values he embodies and which the Class of 2023 should continue to embrace throughout their lives: a strong sense of community and commitment to service.

A number of Stanners won special awards, including Grace Murphy ‘23 winning the new Brother Leo Richard Pillar Award, presented to a student who has embraced, upheld, and lived the pillars of Molloy’s Marist educational mission! During the ceremony, Molloy congratulated Mr. Donald Mooney on his retirement after 15 years. Mr. Mooney received a standing ovation! The Louis E. Willett Award was awarded to Tarik Lajoie ‘23, in recognition of their regard for and assistance to others, befitting of the memory of PFC Willett, who gave his life while serving our country. The Br. Angus Wilkinson Alumni Medal was awarded to Hailey Ramzan ’23, in recognition of her outstanding character, leadership, school spirit, and academic record over four years. Congratulations to Grace, Tarik, Hailey, and all of this year’s award winners.

The Class of 2023 is attending many outstanding colleges and universities worldwide, including: