The Suffolk County School Superintendents Association hosted its 32nd annual Valedictorians Luncheon at Villa Lombardi in Holbrook on May 28, honoring Suffolk County’s highest-achieving Class of 2026 graduates.

Ross Valedictorian Melanie Ruiz, and Sonderling Valedictorian Luis Romero attended the luncheon with their families alongside Superintendent Wanda Ortiz-Rivera and Brentwood High School Principal Dr. Dashana Dulin.

“This beautiful tradition brings together some of Suffolk County's highest-achieving graduates and the parents who have supported them every step of the way,” Ortiz-Rivera said. “Every year, I leave with a tremendous sense of admiration for our Brentwood students and all they have accomplished.”

SCSSA Vice President and Smithtown Central School District Superintendent of Schools Dr. Mark Secaur welcomed attendees before SCSSA President and Kings Part UFSD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Timothy Eagen addressed the graduates, recognizing the dedication and perseverance that led to their achievements.

“This afternoon is about hard work, perseverance and the pursuit of knowledge,” Dr. Eagen said. “Each of these students we are honoring this afternoon has demonstrated not only exceptional academic ability but also dedication, discipline and a commitment to making the most of every single opportunity available to them at their high school.”

Dr. Eagen reminded students that becoming a valedictorian reflects years of effort and determination.
“Being a valedictorian is not about a single test or assignment,” he said. “It reflects years of curiosity, hard work and resilience.”

The valedictorians were then called to the stage alongside their school superintendent and high school principal to receive certificates of recognition, plaques and copies of Dr. Seuss’ “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!”