Welcome to Commencement, The Eagle’s special graduation section.
Commencement is associated with both endings and beginnings. For the Berkshire graduates celebrated in these pages, it marks the completion of their college degrees or high school diplomas, as well as the start of their journeys as lifelong learners.
Here at The Eagle, we believe their accomplishments deserve applause and recognition. Inside these pages, you will find every member of the class of 2026 from each high school and college in the Berkshires in print, as well as their awards, memorable moments and photographs captured by Eagle staff.
We’ve printed this section since 2022, and this year’s edition would not have been possible without the support of our sponsor, Greylock Federal Credit Union, The Eagle’s local ownership and our talented staff of reporters, editors and photographers.
I’m proud to take this on each year. I’ve edited and designed every iteration of this section since its inception, and it has become a yearly tradition. I’m a graduate of both Wahconah Regional High School and the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, so I know how special it is to have The Eagle celebrate these milestones.
We put this section together because every Berkshire graduate is important and deserves to have their story told.
Several themes emerge throughout this edition, including the importance of the communities these graduates forged during their time at their respective schools and the dedication of the educators who guided them. In Lee, graduates honored Jayden Andre, a classmate who died in a car crash in 2024, and Pittsfield High School remembered Colleen Quin, a beloved art teacher who passed away last month after a battle with cancer. Wahconah awarded diplomas to its first class to spend all four years in its new building. On the college level, Berkshire Community College and the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts bid farewell to their presidents after a combined 24 years of service.
These stories highlight the world-class education available in the Berkshires and the students who have overcome adversity to attain it.
As they take their first steps into the next chapters of their lives, please join me in welcoming the Berkshire County class of 2026. — Mitchell Chapman, Commencement editor
To watch a video version of these instructions, go to tinyurl.com/49b64x8h.
Anisa Abdallah*+, Anderson Adanaque Juarez*, Seth Aitken+, Allison Albayeros Herrera+, Aiden Alibozek*, Jackson Almeida+, Annabelle Amichia+, Kwaku Ampofo, Yanis Anwonzo, Andrea Armah*, Kobby Asare, Tessa Bailey, Yashita Banga, Cerilene Bassett, Modesta Benle*, Audrey Berard, David Bernal Neira, Lheomar Biaggi, Ava Boos, Kaleel Brown, Anthony Bruno, Aubree Bryant, Seveah Bryant, Lilliana Bu oni, Liliana Bullock, Maddelynn Burdette, Elliott Burke, Henry Campos Verdugo, Liam Cann, Kayleigh Capitanio, Dylan Carlson, Eva Cassavaugh+, Harolyn Castillo*+, Amaya Chaparro, Anthony Chavarry*, Damaris Chicaiza Rivera*, Jason Codey*+, Sam Contini, Dennise Cordova Zelaya, Koby Cross*+, Renan DaSilva Alves, Gabriela De Jesus Baez, Madison Deane, Mia DeJesus, Giovanni DelSonno, Laura Diaz Ruiz, Joshua Diaz-Burgos, Konnor Dugan, Matthew Egan*+, Bre’Jai Ellerbee, Davon Fitts, Sirus Frenkel, Morris Fried*+, Thomas Gonzalez Salcedo, Asher Gri n, Taryn Gri n+, Seamus Guinan, Anissa Guzzo, Enjelah Haecker, Lily Hartl, Miguel Henao Calle*, Madeline Henner*+, Cameron Hillard, Nyla Hooks, Luke Irwin, Annarena Jackson, Shaheem Jackson, Noah Kane-Smalls, Joseph Kearns*+, Isla Kirchner*++, Jacob Klein*, Ellen Klepetar*++, Mekhi Knight, Cassandra Koomson*, Sophia LaMalfa*++, Jay-Lynn LeGree, Gionnah LeVardi*, Yasmerly Liriano Estevez, Lianna MacHa e, Piper MacKinnon*+, Spozhmai Mangal*, Daniel Martin+, Adyson Mayberry, Caitlyn McDonald*+, Amari McLaughlin, Olivia McMahon, Simon Mele*+, Cam Menard, Logan Middlebrook, Camryn Mochon, Kathy Monigan, Darwin Montalvan Astudillo, Andres Moreno Peralta, Lynece Moses, Eduardo Mottos, Shyanne Mungin+, Camden Ngo, Quinn Obregon-Lopez, Joseph Oman-Cobbinah, Chelsea Otibu*, Nicolina Paredes, Jae’lyn Patterson-McIntyre, Nicol Piraquive Vargas, Evelyn Powell+, Josue Proano, Ava Rachiele+, Taye Ramirez, Amaya Rennie, Colton Revord, Danna Rivas Chacon, Cate Roberts*, Gianna Rocca, Nicolas Roderiguez Arenas, Daniel Rodríguez Figueroa, Ian Ryer, Sarah Salcedo, Jeymarie Salgado Rosa, Isabella Scalise*+, Esha Shah+, Rachel Shaw*+, Ethan Smith, James Smith*++, Oliver Smith, Max Soldato, Dalia Soriano-Leon, Xavier Southard, Bashiru Sowe, Navaeh Squires, Madison Stetz*+, Kyana Summers*+, Quinn Supple, Reagan Supple*, Joshua Tandoh+, Bri’awn Thompson, Drake Thompson, Samseedy Touray, Lilian Tower, Eilish Travis*+, Alana Turner, Carter Tyer*, Sebastian Valdivieso, Daniel Varon, Michael Vegas*, Rosita Velasquez Chang, Yadel-Gabriel Velez Marrero, Margaret Vittum*+, E e Wax*+, Carson Weber, Evan Webster, Ariel Weiner++, David Wildgoose*+, Christian Winchell, Kara Wong*+, Gloria Yankey*, McKenna Zamboni*+ * National Honor Society
2026 Class Council
Student Government
GILLIAN HECK
PHOTOS BY GILLIAN HECK — THE BERKSHIRE EAGLE
Above: Chelsea Apeaa Otibu receives her diploma during Pittsfield graduation exercises at Tanglewood on June 14. Inset: Eilish Travis delivers a graduation speech.
Nicolina Paredes sings the National Anthem.
PHS CLASS OF 2026
From left: Joshua Tandoh and Student Government President Ellen Klepetar speak.
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PITTSFIELD HIGH SCHOOL AWARDS & SCHOLARSHIPS
PHOTOS BY GILLIAN HECK — THE BERKSHIRE EAGLE
HOOSAC VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL
GOING OUT IN STYLE
Hoosac Valley graduates walk out of the school’s gym on June 5.
BY STEPHANIE ZOLLSHAN
The Berkshire Eagle
School name: Hoosac Valley High School
Graduation location/date: Hoosac Valley High School,June 5
Number of Graduates: 61
Valedictorian: Anna Thurston
Salutatorian: Alexis Warner
Class Speaker: Noah Rehill
Memorable moment: A prevalent theme of the day from each of the class of 2026’s student speakers was thankfulness for not only the friendship of their classmates, but for the families and teachers who got them to this point in their lives. Each speaker emphasized the importance of the support systems that, in the words of class speaker Noah Rehill, stood “in my corner.”
Bissaillon, Jacob Borawski, Qwanell Bradley, Kelsey Brown, Jarod Burdick, Richard Carr, Daniel Cernik, Kylie Clark, Richard Colon Jr., Elizabeth Curry, Nyla Dion, Virginia Field, Ezekiel Gibson, Brooklyn Gregory, Conor Gri n, Carson Harrington, Kamarion Kastner, Tatyalonna Kastner, Cash Kolodziej, Ashlyn Lamke, Nathan Lapinski, Hannah Lord, Cameron Lovato, Hailey Loynes, Alannah Luciano, Johnathan Lyons, Iyakxel Marquez Cruz, Blake Mazzeo, Madison McIntosh, Ava Mclear, Issac Meyle, Levi Miller, Julianna Modena, Drew Norcross, Logan O’Connell, Cameron Odvar, Timothy Olver, Samuel Pantano, Noah Rehill, Gracie Rhinemiller, Evan Richardson, Dylan Rohlfs, Hailey Rudy, Alayna Shears, Brady Sherman, Cameron Sobieski, Macy Sprague, Mark St. Hilaire, Kyle Suleski, Izabela Tart, Anna Thurston, Jayquan Vazquez, Alexis Warner, Kennedy Whitley, Lance Whitted, Adan Wicks, Jayquan Williams, Rachael Wnuk, Gracelyn Wright
PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE ZOLLSHAN — THE BERKSHIRE EAGLE
Alexis Warner holds her graduation cap.
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MOUNT EVERETT HIGH SCHOOL
EAGLES SPREAD THEIR WINGS
BY STEPHANIE ZOLLSHAN
The Berkshire Eagle
School name: Mount Everett Regional High School
Graduation location/Date:
Tanglewood, June 6
Number of graduating seniors: 40
Valedictorian: Benjamin Vella
Salutatorian: Philip Enoch
Memorable moment: The school’s well-publicized budget and sta ng controversy was not ignored throughout the ceremony, with references to the turmoil in speeches by administrators. Student speeches
focused on the future, with Salutatorian Philip Enoch urging his fellow classmates to get out and experience the world. “To learn is to experience, and to experience is to live,” Enoch said; a sentiment echoed in a speech by Valedictorian Benjamin Vella, who said, “... from this point forward, the ship is yours to command. From now on, you do whatever you want. Pursue any career, go to any country, do any hobby, meet new people, eat food, try new things, travel to the ends of the world.”
MOUNT EVERETT CLASS OF 2026
David Bautista-Santos, Levi Boardman, Annabella Brady, Jade Brown, Quinn Butler-Carlson, Cameron Coon, Luna Crawford-Harvey, Guthrie Davis, Sophie DelMasto, Jayden Dolby-Capeless, Madeline Emerling, Philip Enoch, Siobhan Fedell, Emily Gilmore,Jonah Harrington, Alexis Je ries, Brody Kinna, Ainsley Krans, London Krans, Kingston Lee,
Max Manning, Lindsey Markham, Adara McLaughlin, Joseph McNulty, Italia Oates, Alexis Peck, Hayden Pothul, Kamari Pridgen, Abigail Reiners, Elizabeth Robitaille, Lillian Rotenberg, Roselyn Rotenberg, Kyle Sermini, Nicholas Thomson, Cheyanne Tilley, Blake Turner, Madison Van Deusen, Benjamin Vella, Finnegan Vion, Xavier Zorn
PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE ZOLLSHAN — THE BERKSHIRE EAGLE
Above: Graduates line up in their caps and gowns before the start of the 2026 Mount Everett graduation ceremony at Tanglewood. Inset: Valedictorian Benjamin Vella delivers his address.
Graduates move their tassels from right to left as the final step in their high school journeys.
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TACONIC HIGH SCHOOL
‘YOUR STRENGTH IS
THE BONDS YOU’VE CREATED’
BY STEPHANIE ZOLLSHAN
School
Graduation
Salutatorian:
Valedictorian: Gavin O’Donnell
Memorable
“Your
Erik Adler**, Antoinette Ahoussi, Gianna Aiello, Ethan Albano, Joshua Alvarez Gomez, Ayden Anderson, Conner Andrews, Tyler Arseneau, Sean Assamoi*, Sophie Aubin**, Yaraliz Auqui, River Avanzato**, Samuel Avanzato Scott, Meena Ayala, Evette Baidoo*, Savannah Baker*, Sharleen Barahona, Madison Barber*, Brendan Bayles*, Hunter Bentz*, Jahmier Berry-Irvis, Kaitlynn Bishop**, Anthony Booth Jr., Autumn Borden, Ryleigh Brassard, Jaeshaun Brown, Mariana Cardenas Orozco, Lillian Castaneda, Anthony Castoldi, Isaiah Centeio, Tahira Chimarro Torres*, Quentin Christopher, Jayce Clark, Jocelynn Cobb, Jordan Cornellier**, Jillian Croce**, Kyla Croshier, Lacey Daly*, Joy Davis, Michelle Davis**, Bella Deinlein, Kingston DeJesus*, Josiah Delph, Matilda Delsignore, Aliyah DelSonno**, Lyrin DeMaranville, Ny’onha Demary, Lindsay Devitt, Robert DiFilippo, Lydia DiNicola, Ayden Dowling, Janessa Driscoll, Michael Duclos*, Caleb Dunham, Emma Dziewanowski, Milo Erwin, Chantel Evans, Edward Ferris*, Emma Foster, Jayvon Frazier, Sanyah Frazier, Dominick Gassaway, Finnian Gillespie*, Alivia Gingras*, Savannah Gomes**, Jarlo Gomez Guijarro, Jsuan Gri n, Aiden Hall*, Madeline Harrington*, Dylan Harty*, Jason Hassan Jr.**, Daniel Hebreo Orellana, Abigail Henriott, Julian Henriquez, Joshua Holcomb*, Anabel Holguin Munoz**, Alexander Holt, Dominick Horalek, Grace Horbah*, Mia Ives, Quinn Ives, Edmund Janoszewski**, Anthony Jimenez Rios*, Vee Johnston, Javon Jones*, Serenity Jordan, Shaun Knysh*, Precious Kpofolo*, Isabella Lampro, Parker Lang**, Dominic Lannan, Reilley LaShomb, Isaiah Lee, Emanuel Lemieux Robinson, Cade Lewis, Addie Litourneau, Brianna Lilian Lopez**, Aidan Lyman*, Malakai Lytle, Isabel Manarchik*, Mason Manning*, Harold Markham, Easton Martin, Nicholas Martinez*, Mekhi McClain, Aiden Medina*, Ste on Miller**, Gabriel Mlynarczyk, Kevin Montealegre Rivera, Emma Moon*, Avery Moore, Blake Moore**, Cameron Morrison, Ilianna Motta, Landon Mountz, Lexi Murphy-Malloy, Catherine Napravnick-Valero*, Arielle Nicholls, Collin Norton*, Rodolfo Nunez, Ethan O’Donnell*, Gavin O’Donnell*, Cody O’Neil**, Tye O’Neil, Gabriela Orellana-Alfaro*, Prince Owusu, Connor Paronto, Yash Patel*, Braden Pease, Brody Perkins-Barnes, Matthew Perrea*, Talan Perry, Deacon Peto, Laureus Pettijohn, Thomas Pettinato, Alexis Phelps**, Natalie Pitcher, Talia Pope, Luis Quizhpi Caguana, Adriana Ramos, Remynisce Ramos, Henry Rapkowicz, Savannah Restivo, Devin Reynolds*, Nolan Reynolds**, Connor Robarge, Amara Robertson, Maria Rodriguez Torres, Olyviana Romano*, Caleb Roucoulet, Cicily Roy, David Schenker, Brooklyn Shaw*, Lola Shaw, Shaheem Shelton*, Rayon Shuttleworth, Janous Slonski, April Soasti*, Qing Song*, Abbigael Soto, Luke Soule**, Victoria Spagnuolo, Dale Spooner, Dakota St. John, Marlayna Staebler, Chloe Stansen, Elizabeth Stedman, Nyla Stevens, Ella Stodden*, Spencer Talis, Alexander Tardibuono, Shelby Tart*, Kaelen Thomas, Hailey Tinney, Victor Torres Jr.**, Samuel Tremblay, Cristian Villeda Berganza, Micah Wappes, Angelese WardGreen*, Damien White, Wesley Willey, Logan Williams, Jazmyn Wilson, Frederick Yankey**, Romeo Yankey*, Julia Young* * High Honors ** Honors
TACONIC CLASS OF 2026
PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE ZOLLSHAN — THE BERKSHIRE EAGLE
Graduates line up at the start of the 2026 Taconic High School graduation ceremony at Tanglewood in Lenox.
Quizhpi, Abbigael Soto, Dakota St. John Culinary Arts: Antoinette Ahoussi, Meena Ayala, Savannah Baker, Autumn Borden, Michelle Davis, Lindsay Devitt, Michael Duclos, Milo Erwin, Isabella Lampro, Mason Manning, Emma Moon, Brooklyn Shaw, Lola Shaw, Victoria Spagnuolo, Hailey Tinney, Angelese Ward-Green, Logan Williams Early Education and Care: Joselynn Cobb, Alivia Gingras, Isabel Manarchik, Talia Pope, Nolan Reynolds, Luke Soule, Marlayna Staebler, Elizabeth Stedman, Shelby Tart, Julia Young Electrical: Erik Adler, Tyler Arseneau, Hunter Bentz, Finnian Gillespie, Jarlo Gomez Guijarro, Daniel Hebreo Orellana, Gabriel Mlynarczyk, Blake Moore, Connor Paronto, Braden Pease, Thomas Pettinato, Connor Robarge, Qing Song Health Technology: Evette Baidoo, Mariana Cardenas Orozco, Joy Davis, Robert DiFilippo, Precious Kpofolo, Reilly LaShomb, Brody Perkins-Barnes,
Mekhi McClain, Collin Norton, Janous Slonski, Chloe Stansen Information Technology & Cybersecurity: Sean Assamoi, Dominick Horalek, Shaun Knysh, Dominic Lannan, Aidan Lyman, Nicholas Martinez, Prince Owusu, Matthew Perrea, Devin Reynolds, Romeo Yankey Metal Fabrication: Josiah Delph, Edward Ferris, Abigail Henriott, Addie Litourneau, Ilianna Motta, Natalie Pitcher, Shaheem Shelton Multimedia Production & Broadcasting: Brendan Bayles, Cody O’Neil Health Technology Awards: Alzheimer’s Caregiver Certificates: Evette Baidoo, Mariana Cardenas Orozco, Joy Davis, Aliyah DelSonno, Robert DiFilippo, Precious Kpofolo, Reilley LaShomb, Brody Perkins-Barnes, Laureus Pettijohn, Alexis Phelps, Adriana Ramos, Amara Robertson, Kaelen Thomas, Victor Torres Certified Nursing Assistant Certificates: Evette Baidoo, Joy Davis, Aliyah DelSonno, Robert DiFilippo, Precious Kpofolo, Reilley LaShomb, Brody Perkins-Barnes, Laureus Pettijohn, Adriana Ramos, Amara Robertson, Kaelen Thomas, Victor Torres American Heart Association First Aid & CPR Certificates: Evette Baidoo,
TACONIC HIGH SCHOOL AWARDS & SCHOLARSHIPS
PHOTOS BY
Valedictorian Gavin O’Donnell speaks at the Taconic High School graduation ceremony at Tanglewood in Lenox.
MONUMENT MOUNTAIN REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
‘KEEP NEEDING EACH OTHER’
School name: Monument Mountain High School
Graduation location/date: Tanglewood, June 7
Number of graduating seniors: 108
Valedictorian: Sadie Honig-Briggs
Salutatorian: Reese Duchesne
Memorable moment: During her valedictorian speech, Sadie told her fellow graduates to “keep needing each other.” She said that in life, you will need people to do the work to keep the world going. She mentioned some her classmates and their future careers. During her salutatorian address, Reese encouraged everyone to protect the environment and not take it for granted. “We all have the power to reverse ecological harm.” Digital visual journalist Gillian Heck can be reached at gjones@berkshireeagle.com
MONUMENT MOUNTAIN CLASS OF 2026 BY GILLIAN HECK The Berkshire Eagle
Miles Allard, Jordan Alston, Estelle Baden, Kathryn Barquinero, Gianna Beacco, Caroline Becker, Francis Bilotta, Tatum Birnhak, Charles Bloom, Kamren Boino, Mari Brennan, Thomas Brown, Mason Bu oni, Juan Cabrera, Dominic Calautti, Juan Cambi, Tyler Campbell, Lexi Carpenter, Edward Castille, Andrea Castillo, Jazmin Celis-Antonio, Harshveer Chahal, Berdy Cheramy, Lotus Cohen, Mabel Cooney, Grace Coughlin, Oliver Curtis, Lily Davis, Aiden Decker, Brooke Decker, Sophia deLuca, Amelia Desilets, Reese Duchesne, Kestrel Duke, Mya Dupont, Harvey Ehrbar, Emaily Eichstedt, Cole Errichetto, Harmony Estrada, Avanti Fudge, Logan Hartzell, Isabella Havens, Owen Heck, Yuliana Herrera Cortes, Autumn Higa, Sadie Honig-Briggs, Larkin Howard, Brenden Hunt, Cole Kennedy, Quest Kent-Limon, Lily Khalsa, Juliana Kisiel, Luka Kononenko, Eleanor Konrad, Josephine Kozaka, Maya Lang, Alexandra Martinez Cruz, Kyle McMahon, Brady Merritt, Mirabelle Meyers, Daniel Mullen, Avery Murray, Jessica Navichoc Coche, Dylan Netzer, Marcos Ortiz, Everett Pacheco, Thomas Palmer, David Parker, Jeel Patel, Andrea Paul, Gage Payer, Luisa Pazmino Pina, Logan Pease, Remi Perreault, Valerie Perry, Wilber Petzey-Cruz, Willa Pohl, Dylan Possu Santamaria, Ember Raifstanger, Luna Reynolds, Santiago Riano, Daniela Rocche, Blaize Rowen, Leilana Salvini, Jonah Salzmann, Dana Sanchez, Heidi Saupe, Emma Seward, Peter Simonelli, Liam Smith, Ashley Sonsini, Dakotah Soules, Gri n St. John, Francesca Stanmeyer, Sadie Suters, Thea Szymanski, Gri n Touponce, Ian Tryon, Rocco Villano, Dioniso Vivarelli, Noah Walker, George Wallace, Emmett Warren-Lane, Aaron Wilkinson, Rose Wilson, Steven Woodard
Valedictorian Sadie Honig-Briggs delivers her address. Salutatorian Reese Duchesne delivers her address.
PHOTOS BY GILLIAN HECK — THE BERKSHIRE EAGLE
Grace Coughlin reacts as she goes up to receive her diploma from Monument Mountain Regional High School during their 59th commencement exercises on June 7 at Tanglewood in Lenox.
David Parker Monument Mountain Girls’ Softball Scholarships: Lexi Carpenter, Andrea Paul, Gianna Beacco, Lily Khalsa, Mya Dupont, Sophia deLuca, Ember Raifstanger Monument Mountain Girls’ Cross Country Scholarships: Sadie Honig-Briggs, Estelle Baden, Amelia Desilets, Mirabelle Meyers, Francesca Stanmeyer, Sadie Suters Monument Mountain Golf Scholarship: Liam Smith Monument Mountain Greenhouse Scholarships: Marcos Ortiz, Thomas Palmer, David Parker Monument Mountain Ski Scholarships: Kathryn Barquinero, Avanti Fudge Monument Mountain Swim Scholarships: Estelle Baden, Rocco Villano Garrett Norton Memorial Scholarship: Dominic Calautti Olde Yankee Street Rod Scholarship: Cole Kennedy Town of Otis Scholarships: Francis Bilotta, Andrea Paul, Cole Kennedy, Rose Wilson C.M. Owens Scholarship: Brady Merritt
Antonio & Antoinette Pieropan Scholarship: Tatum Birnhak Pittsfield Co-Op Bank Scholarships in Memory of Conrad R. Bernier: Caroline Becker, Heidi Saupe
The Kenneth Preston Memorial Scholarship: Jazmin
Celis-Antonio, Thea Szymanski The Kenneth Preston Memorial Scholarship: Jazmin
Chief Roosa Memorial Scholarship: Tyler Campbell, Cole Kennedy
Digital Asset Scholarships: Rose Wilson, Harshveer
Chahal
Sandisfield Scholarship: Logan Pease
School Center Inc. Scholarships: Caroline Becker, Autumn Higa, Sadie Honig-Briggs, Mirabelle Meyers Searles High School Alumni Scholarship: Ember Raifstanger Senior Science Scholarship: Reese Duchesne Hilda Banks Shapiro Creative Writing Award: Kestrel Duke Smile Like Jack Awards: Cole Kennedy, Mason Buffoni, Andrea Paul, Francis Bilotta, Tyler Campbell, Larkin Howard Spartan Scholarships: Mari Brennan, Juan Cabrera, Leilana Salvini, Lily Khalsa, Ashley Sonsini, Sophia deLuca Spirit of Monument Mountain Scholarships: George Wallace, Tyler Campbell St. Ann Scholarship: Heidi Saupe Vincent Standard Scholarship: Caroline Becker John F. Stern Trust Scholarship: Tatum Birnhak Stockbridge Fire Department Awards: Tatum Birnhak, Kathryn Barquinero, Brady Merritt
Stockbridge Fire Department Award, Michael J. Obanhein Memorial Scholarship: Dylan Netzer Stockbridge Police Association Scholarships in Memory of Sally Korte: Kathryn Barquinero, Tatum Birnhak, Brady Merritt Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club Scholarship — Sportsmen for the Environment: Tyler Campbell Stonehouse Properties LLC Scholarship: Francesca Stanmeyer Stonehouse Properties LLC Pathways to a Trade Scholarship: Andrea Paul Dave Sullivan Memorial Scholarship: Cole Kennedy Supporting Democracy Leadership Award: Sadie
The Chris Unsworth Memorial Scholarship: Amelia Desilets
The “Uns” Chris Unsworth Memorial Scholarships: Francesca Stanmeyer, Mirabelle Meyers
West Stockbridge Grange: Estelle Baden, Josephine Kozaka, Brady Merritt
“Be the Light” Scholarship: Francesca Stanmeyer
The Susan Wilbert Scholarship: Owen Heck Williams Academy Scholarship: Tatum Birnhak Williams High School Scholarship: Francesca Stanmeyer Williamson Family Scholarship: Harvey Ehrbar
Women’s Club of the Berkshires Scholarship: Mirabelle Meyers
A. Anne Zucco Memorial Nursing Scholarship: Brooke Decker
Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen Certificate: Tyler Campbell Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents Academic Excellence Award: Sadie Honig-Briggs
National School Development Council Award for Academic Growth and Student Leadership in Learning: Reese Duchesne
National School Development Council Award for Academic Growth and Student Leadership in Learning: Mirabelle Meyers
Seal of Biliteracy: Caroline Becker, Amelia Desilets, Mirabelle Meyers, Dylan Possu Santamaria, Dana Sanchez, Juan Cabrera, Berdy Cheramy, Luka Kononenko, Wilber Petzey-Cruz, Jessica Navichoc Coche, Yuliana Herrera Cortes
Seal of Biliteracy with Distinction: Oliver Curtis, Sadie Honig-Briggs, Everett Pacheco
Class Artist Award: Kestrel Duke
Director’s Award for
PHOTOS BY GILLIAN HECK — THE BERKSHIRE EAGLE
Francesca Stanmeyer receives her Monument Mountain Regional High School diploma during their 59th commencement exercises on June 7 at Tanglewood in Lenox.
LENOX MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL
BLAZING THEIR OWN PATH
BY TALIA LISSAUER
The Berkshire Eagle
School name: Lenox Memorial High School
Graduation location/date: Tanglewood, June 14
Number of graduating seniors: 59
Valedictorian: Sai Sanjana Meesala
Salutatorian: Chloe Parsenios
Memorable moment: One of the ceremony’s more personal moments came when Principal Jeremiah Ames paused reading graduates’ names to present a diploma to his son, Owen Ames, before the two shared a hug.
Talia Lissauer can be reached at tlissauer@ berkshireeagle.com and 413-496-6378.
LENOX MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2026
Dayna Ackerman, Evan Albert, Owen Ames, Emily Barenski, Autumn Biernacki, Lauren Bridges, Chase Candee, Jackson Carhart, Fyodr ChairezVolakh, Amelia Coco Gilardi, Gavin Doherty, Matteo Ferioli, Aleksandria Healey, Dylan Heath, Madeleine Hennessey, Ayden Jezak, David Joham Jordao, Grace Julieano, Owen Kamienski, Charlie Keator, Ava Klapes, Keaghan Kline, John Kowalski, Ilayda Kuruca, Brooklynn Lamke, Emma Lane, Je rey Larmon, Liam Laundry, Evan Love, Evie Lynch, Bronwynn MacQueen, Leanne Maschino, Connor McCormack, Sai Sanjana Meesala, Michael Methe, Ana Moore, Kaitlin Mott, Ava Mozian, Julian Newton-Demary, Claire O’Brien, Chloe Parsenios, Isabella Pereira, Roman Phillips, Michael Piretti, Tristan Pritchard, Elias Ramos, Dawson Reber, Matthew Schoenberg, Elyssa Scrimo, Adalyn Shufelt, Jason Sibley, Devon Smits, Jolyan Tessier, Aiden Tran, Ariana Velasquez Castillo, Farid Vizcardo-Dominguez, Benjamin Westlake, Emilia Yefremov, Ahmet Yildiz
PHOTOS BY TALIA LISSAUER — THE BERKSHIRE EAGLE
Lenox graduates applaud their classmates as they are awarded their diplomas at Tanglewood on June 14.
From left: Lenox High School Salutatorian Chloe Parsenios and Valedictorian Sai Sanjana Meesala speak.
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LEE HIGH SCHOOL
COMING INTO THEIR OWN
The Berkshire Eagle
School name: Lee Middle and High School
Graduation location/date: Tanglewood, June 6
Number of graduates: 39
Valedictorian: Isabella Hall
Salutatorian: Nox Colello
Memorable moment: Before the graduates on stage received their diplomas, Lee Principal Gregg Brighenti presented an honorary diploma to the family of Jayden Andre, a classmate of the class of 2026 who was killed in a car crash in 2024. The feeling of Andre’s loss permeated the event, with many tears shed by both faculty and students throughout the ceremony.
Joseph Abderhalden, Riley Albert, Javier Anaya Gomez, Tamia Andrade Loor, Jack Boden, John Brighenti, Mia Cashman, Samuel Cashman, Nox Colello, Jacob Cooper, Maxdyn Daigneault, Claire Davis, Timothy DeLuca, Rydel Drenga, Hunter Fosby, Chrystina Gale, Kenzie Garrity, Isabella Hall, Natalie Hall, Seth Hopkins, Hunter Jones, Devon Keefner, Samuel Korte, Madelyn Kotek, Connor Lewis, Matthew Mairo, William Mairo, Gabriel Masis Elling, Alexis Masten, Faith Newton, Adam Pincelli, Emma Ranzoni, Savannah Rexford, Patrick Rudolph, Layla Shepard, Payton Simmons, Jenna Simone, Zavien Siok, Elyse Thomson
LEE HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2026
BY STEPHANIE ZOLLSHAN
Above: Graduates walk across the manicured grounds of Tanglewood toward The Shed. Top left: Valedictorian Isabella Hall speaks.
PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE ZOLLSHAN — THE BERKSHIRE EAGLE
Principal Gregg Brighenti hands a yellow rose to each graduate as they line up for the start of the 2026 Lee Middle and High School graduation ceremony at Tanglewood in Lenox.
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A ROCKIN’ GOODBYE
Clockwise from above left: Valedictorian Landon LeClair addresses graduates and guests; Zachary Howland is embraced by his dad, Justin, a carpentry instructor, after receiving his diploma; a mortarboard is decorated with Scrabble tiles; salutatorian Ryleigh Holland speaks to the crowd.
PHOTOS BY GILLIAN HECK THE BERKSHIRE EAGLE
BY GILLIAN HECK
The Berkshire Eagle
School name: Charles H. McCann Technical School
Graduation location/date: MCLA’s
Amsler Campus Center, May 27
Number of graduating seniors: 126
Valedictorian: Landon Plankey LeClair
Salutatorian: Ryleigh Holland
Memorable moment: Senior Cole
Stentiford played the National Anthem on electric guitar to start o commencement exercises. (Jimi Hendrix style)
Abigail Anderson, Brett Belsky, Arthur Bentley, Alisandra Bills, Brady Bolte, Nolan Booth, Dylan Bourdon, Mackenzie Boyce, Zackary Bradbury, Tavian Brazeau, Faith Brazeau, Jackson Breard, Landen Brodeur, Kolton Buck, Je rey Burgess, Julian Carrier, Rocco Cellana, Aiden Champney, Gabriel Charron, Harley Collins, Thomas Connors, Malia Coons, Lillyonna Crawford, Jaslyne Crockwell, Tanner Davignon, Dallas DeAngelis Ritcher, Mya Demers, Jaydon Dimitropolis, Gabrielle Driscoll, Tyler Dubreuil, Skyler Ellsworth, Brianna Fachini, Bryan Faucher, Aidan Ford, Hayley Foucher, Ethan Fredenburg, Ella Ga ey, Stephen Gage, Eli Gagne, Dylan Goodell, Emma Gregory, Ehryn Hall, Jordyn Hamilton, Landon Hnatonko, Ryleigh Holland, Zachary Howland, Koleigh Hubbard, Kylee Hubby, Logan Irace, Gianna Jacobbe, Noah Kanelos, Leyla Kincaid-Chesbro, Nicholas King, Juliet Knapp, Kamilia Kondel, Nora Kondel, Ava Kratz, Timothy Kupiec, Emma LaCasse, Emerson Lane, Ashley Lane, Tyne Laroche, Shaylee Lawson, Landon LeClair, Reilley Lefebvre, Jaxin Lemaire, Ashley LeSage, Gabriel Lescarbeau, Rhea Lincoln, Abbey Little, Jordyn Lloyd, Ryan McCarthy, Matthew McCormick, Aimee McPherson, Andrew Meaney, Addisyn Meczywor, Ethan Medon, Mason Mickle, Ian Militello, Jonathan Miller, Marley Miner, Mackenzie Miranda-Ruiz, Carter Moore, Sage Moran, Thomas Morton, Jackson Mullen, Ryder Murach, Marley O’Neill, Keegan Ouellette, Riona Parkman, Boden Peck, Grace Perreault, Paige Perry, Liam Poirot, Derek Pratt, Jacob Rash, Ryleigh Rathbun, Hunter Robert, Bryce Robison, Matthew Roeder, Mason Rondeau, Kyle Rougeau, Logan Senecal, Rider Senecal, Jacob Sherman, Jacob Smith, Jayden Smith, Amari Smith, Micah Spencer, Cole Stentiford, Natalie Tatro, Elizabeth Therrien, Jackson Tower, Aidan Tremblay, Peyton Trivette, Quincy Vilayvanh, Brooklynn Warner, Ethan Weiskotten, Gabrielle Wells-Vidal, Justin Wesolowski, Ayden Williams, Jason Williamson, James Witto, Maggie Wohrle, Tucker Wrenn, Taylor Ziemba
MCCANN CLASS OF 2026
MCCANN
Above: Students react after Cole Stentiford, top inset, performed the national anthem on electric guitar on May 27 at the beginning of commencement exercises for McCann Technical School at MCLA’s Campus Center Gym.
PHOTOS BY GILLIAN HECK — THE BERKSHIRE EAGLE
Rocco Cellana is embraced by his carpentry instructor Justin Howland, after receiving his diploma during commencement exercises for McCann Technical School at MCLA’s Campus Center Gym on May 27.
Cosmetology: Grace Boland, North Adams; Gloria Cruzado, Bennington, Vt.; Madison Cyrulik, Adams; Idahlia Frazier, Adams; Ava Johnston, Pittsfield; Tessa Morin, Lee; Nora Moser, Adams; Chevelle Raifstanger, Alford; Sophie Reid, North Adams; Andrea Rice, Adams; Mia Zuccalo, North Adams
Dental Assisting: Annaka Bradley, Clarksburg; Kimberly Brames, North Adams; Ahnajae David, Clarksburg; Shayanna Depson, Pittsfield; Mia Filiault, Lanesborough
Medical Assisting: Kelsi Houghtlin, Pittsfield; Nicole Liebenow, North Adams
Hollie Converse Memorial Scholarship: Nicole Liebenow Patricia Dunn Memorial Scholarship: Nora Moser, Sophie Reid
MCCANN
PURCHASE PHOTOS HERE:
WAHCONAH HIGH SCHOOL
BY GILLIAN HECK
Desrochers,
Haczela, Aidan Hagmaier, Alexander Jerebtsov, Brodie Kelly-Smith, Riley Kinzer, Lauren Lange, Lorenzo Lewis, Samuel McLaughlin, Jason McNulty, Isabelle Merhar, Alexander Noyes, Alexis Olds, James Rabuse, Nolan Raymer, Alexandra Rougeau, Ella Scalise, Cindy Siguencia, Paetyn Tatro, Owen Tucker, Mia Viola, Audrey Wildrick
National School Development Council Academic Growth & Student Leadership in Learning Award: Natalie Aldrich, Alexandra Rougeau Physical Wellness Department Awards: Dawson Hitchcock Principal’s Leadership Award: Elizabeth Connor Science Department Award: Haze Brown Social Studies Department Award: Brodie Kelly-Smith Student Council Awards: Sophie Alsmaan, Rose Broderick, Haze Brown (President), Elizabeth Connor (Vice President), Taea Cunagin, Vincent
Graduation location/ date: Wahconah Regional High School gymnasium, May 31
Number of graduating seniors: 107
Valedictorian: Haze Brown
Salutatorian: Sophie Alsmaan
Memorable moments: The inspiring speeches. Alsmaan told students to remember, “How powerful your voice is.” Brown said to, “Never give up and always be
Croshier, Jackson Crow, Taea Cunagin, Ian Daley, Alannah Dargi, Jayden Delgado, Vincent Desrochers, Jocelyn Dowd, Anna Doyle, Jack Ducharme, Athan Dungey, Dawson Feeley, Luke Ferguson, Charlotte Flanders, Lucas Fones, Brianna Frisbie, Skylar Gagliardi, Zayden Gale, Ryan Geoghan, Melaina Haczela, Aidan Hagmaier, Kacie Harte, Dawson Hitchcock, McKenzie Hover, Michael Hubby, Christopher Hyatt, Samuel Iovieno, Alexzander Isenhart, Emma Jacinto, Olivia Jarvie, Alexander Jerebtsov, Madison Judson, Carissa Kearin, Brodie Kelly-Smith, Braeden Killeen, Riley Kinzer, Robert LaBonte, Rylynn Lamb, Lauren Lange, Ryyan Levernoch, Lorenzo Lewis, Natylee Martin, Everett Massini, Dominic Mastrogiovanni, Madison McCarthy, Samuel McLaughlin, Jason McNulty, Isabelle Merhar, McKenzie Morin, Aubrey Muddiman, Alexander Noyes, Kiaya O’Neil, Alexis Olds, Lucas Ostrander, Marissa Poirier, James Rabuse, Kayla Rando, Cole Rapkowicz, Jonah Rawson, Nolan Raymer, Jacob Reilly, Isabella Riechers, Alexandra Rougeau, Aiden Russell, Kiara Ryan, Ella Scalise, Vincent Sciola, Cindy Siguencia, Mariah Sinclair, Tanner Speth, Paetyn Tatro, Tora Thoresen, Owen Tucker, Katelyn Tynan, Caroline Vincelette, Jacoby Vincelette, Mia Viola, Makayla Wadman, Abby Welch, Audrey Wildrick, Ryder Winters, Treyvon Wood, Brodie Ziemba
PHOTOS BY GILLIAN HECK — THE BERKSHIRE EAGLE
Graduate Isabelle Merhar shows her excitement as she goes up to receive her diploma during graduation exercises at Wahconah Regional High School on May 31.
Wahconah Regional High School class of 2026
President Alexandra Rougeau and Vice President Natalie Aldrich
lead their class into graduation exercises on Sunday.
Valedictorian Haze Brown, above, and Salutatorian Sophie Alsmaan, below, deliver remarks.
Thane Adams, Natalie Aldrich, Sophie Alsmaan, Hannah Avalle, Isabelle Baker, Benjamin Barry, Eloise Bates, Madeline Beatty, Rebecca Broderick, Rose Broderick, Emma Brokenik, Haze Brown, Riley Brown, Kaidan Buzzella, Cooper Calvert, Nicolle Camelo Romero, Stefany Cedeno Bolivar, Isabella Churt Hernandez, Brayden Clausen, Jocelyne Cole, Sadie Collins, Elizabeth Connor, Ethan Coughlin, Christopher Crocker, Darrick
WAHCONAH CLASS OF 2026
BERKSHIRE ARTS & TECH. CHARTER PUBLIC SCHOOL
GETTING THEIR FLOWERS
Town of Adams Scholarship: Molly Middlebrook Adams Community Bank Scholarship: Sarah Leedham, Ginerys Vazguez Melendez
Greylock Federal Credit Union Community Enrichment Scholarship: Bishop Casey, Dareen Hage The Lions Club of Adams: Molly Middlebrook
North Adams Elks Lodge 487: Dareen Hage, Molly Middlebrook Northern Berkshire County Youth Diversity Scholarship: Dareen Hage
A student walks during Bart Charter School’s graduation ceremony on June 6, when 32 graduates collected their degrees.
Molly McGrath Richard introduces the Moment of Appreciation ceremony.
A graduating student presents a flower to a teacher who made a lasting impact. The students selected educators who had played
honored them with flowers and embraces.
Lilianna Feliz Choque
MOUNT GREYLOCK REGIONAL SCHOOL
‘THEY REFUSED TO BE ABSENT’
Memorable
Addison Abel, William Apotsos*, Brady Auger, Teigan Brady, Alexander Briggs*, Jaime Brito+, Grady Brownell-Wilkins, Mason Canata, Molly Cangelosi, Paige Cangelosi, Adriana Carasone*, Cooper Carlson, Cora Chaney, Ava Charbonneau, Siera Clemo, William Cortes, Everett Crowe+, Samuel Davidson, Shubham Devre, Madison Drake,
Ruby Dufour*, Manuel Dupras, Maxwell Easton, Frances Evans*, Chloe Fleury, Cyley Getzla , Arianna Henderson++, Skylar Johnson, Emilie Jones*+, Maxwell Killam, Violet Kornell, Kiera Kristensen, Alexander Labendz, Nora Lopez*, Amelia Madrigal+, Krishiv Malhotra, Brandon Mason, Luca Mellow-Bartels*+, Reed Miles-Harris, Teresa Moresi, Roman Nixon+, Natasha Nugent*, Akosh Olchvary, Audrianna Pelkey*, Madison Powell*, Kofi Roberts*, Murphy Sayers, Indira Semon Pike, Otto Sharon, Jacob Shelsy, Lincoln Simpson, William Svrluga+, Dana Taylor, Fanny Thomas, Jesse Thompson, Honor Tidmarsh, Charlotte Towler*, Jack Uhas*, Xavier Velazquez,
Thomas Warren*, Carter Wescott, Mateo Whalen-Loux*, Antonia Wied*, De’Andre Wiggins, Evora Xu++, Andy Zheng, Olivia Zoito* * National Honor Society + Seal of Biliteracy ++ Seal of Biliteracy with Distinction
PHOTOS BY MATT MARTINEZ — THE BERKSHIRE EAGLE
Speaker William Apotsos delivers his speech, “Refuse to be Absent,” at Mount Greylock Regional School’s graduation on June 6.
DRURY HIGH SCHOOL
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Valedictorian Brayden Canales, far left, and Salutatorian Carson Rylander, left, speak.
BY GILLIAN HECK
The Berkshire Eagle
School name: Drury High School
Graduation
Graduation location/date: Drury High School auditorium, June 4.
Number of graduating seniors: 60
Valedictorian: Brayden Canales
Salutatorian: Carson Rylander
Memorable moment: Principal Stephanie
Kopala remarked that the Class of 2026 had “already made a di erence.” Valedictorian Brayden Canales instructed his classmates to “refuse to play it safe.” Digital visual journalist Gillian Heck can be reached at gjones@berkshireeagle.com.
DRURY CLASS OF 2026
Rommel Alvarez, Ariana Barton, Ryan Braman, Layla Brooks, Ian Brule, Raymond Bunt, Makayla Bushika, Brayden Canales, Jack Cavanaugh, Jordan Chrisman, Kurt Christian, Josiah Colon, Marlee Cooke, Donald Cusson, Kylie Darby, Rachel DeCoste, Ayden Duncan, Eden Duval, Hollyann Field, Mady Frederick, Aliyah Gamache, Alexis Girard, David Gregory, Max Gri n, Lucas Hamilton, Kayden Haring, Kai Haselton, Connor Hinkell, Matthew Howland, Vane Jacobs, Bradley Karmazyn, Aaron LaCasse, Sariah Larko, Sophia Loverin, Karma Maney, Leo Marable, Keira Martin, Chandler Matney-Strange, Scarlett McAuli e, Terese McCue, Megan McGrath, Devon Morales, Jaylee Moran, Eva Moser, Ariel Murphy, Sage Nicholas, Jocelyn Phelps, Parker Rivard, Joe Rourke, Carson Rylander, Cole Schadler, Kailey Soucie, Eyzaiya Sutton, Paytton Therrien, Shaylynn Twing, Jayden Vandesteene, Jamil Wheeler, Ava Williams, Norah Wood
PHOTOS BY GILLIAN HECK — THE BERKSHIRE EAGLE
Drury High School graduates are showered in confetti at the end of graduation exercises in the school auditorium on June 4.
PURCHASE PHOTOS HERE:
Ellen Kennedy makes her final commencement remarks as Berkshire Community College president to students and faculty at Tanglewood in Lenox on May 29.
PITTSFIELD — Berkshire Community College held its 66th commencement ceremony on Friday, May 29, at Tanglewood. The College awarded 218 associate degrees and 159 certificates.
A total of 377 awards were conferred to 341 students in 38 programs of study. Twenty-nine students received more than one degree or certificate. This is the highest number of graduates the College has had since 2014, when it conferred awards to 362 students.
Graduates range in age from 17 to 68, with an average age of 33. One student completed degree requirements as a dual enrollment student. While the majority of graduates reside in Massachusetts, others hail from Connecticut, Kentucky, New York, Vermont and West Virginia.
BCC President Ellen Kennedy welcomed attendees and provided inspiring remarks for the institution’s graduates. Laurie Gordy, vice president for Academic Affairs, introduced valedictorian Jeremiah Reagan, who delivered an address to the graduates. The commencement address was delivered by Lori Moon, class of 1990. Moon, the dean of Nursing, Health and Wellness, is retiring at the end of the year. Moon also received the President’s Award in recognition of her dedication and commitment to the College. She is the first person to receive the award since 2018. The City of Albany Pipe Band provided the music for the processional and recessional, and the national anthem was sung by 2026 BCC graduate Clara Bargas Guatta-Cescuni. The 2026 graduates, listed by degree or certificate awarded, include the following:
Associate in Arts, Business Administration: Jonesy C. Bones, Brady M. Breitmaier, Christine M. Moore, Michael F. Butler, Hannah M. Dargi, Sarah A. DeJesus, Lisa M. Dubreuil, Jennifer R. Duchaine, Angeli T. Faggioni, Elliot J. Fletcher, Emma L. Matteau, Shaun W. Kinney, Jule Emily Kuechen, Kathryn M. Leblanc, Keegan E. Lennon, Liam T. O’Keefe, Sergio J. Orellana Ramos, Samantha A. Spaulding, Beau E. Walton
Associate in Arts, Fine Arts: Clara Bargas Guatta Cescuni, Britain A. Sadowy, Marvin J. Stefanik, Wyatt E. Wellington, Eternity J. Williams
Associate in Arts, Liberal Arts: Stephanie A. Bush, Linda L. Cachat, Aiden E. Fennelly, Bethany Paula Iffetayo,
Holly L. DiGrigoli, Alexander H. Estrada, Miranda-Ann Mae Grant, Ryan E. Hillebrand, Christina M. Lester, Austin W. Liebenow, Hadyn F. Lyford, Xavier B. Noyes, Clare Marie Pomerantz, Olivia R. Scholz, Marissa M. Simms, Aaron P. Allen, Joseph N. Boni, Briana M. Booker, Georgeilys G. Gomez, Dan L. Hardy, KelsieReese V. Moore, Travis Murach, Miranda E. Smith-Hunt, Jessica R. Kitch, Kim A. Ostellino
Associate in Science, Business Careers: Tracy L.
Bassette, Britney E. Martin, Andrea L. Overbaugh, Kyleigh Y. Pannesco
Associate in Science, Computer Information Systems: Argen Baver, Matthew A. Lake, Jeremy R. Patterson, Matthew L. Reynolds, Colin M. Rosier, Tano Dylann Chris Junior Addoh, Shaun H. Beverly, Jeremy Lawrence Boord, Vincenzo G. Covello
Associate in Science, Criminal Justice: Shane M. Adams, David James Castegnaro Jr., Douglas Michael Daury, Alex Kareem Jamel Devaughn, Jazmin E. Gregory, Brendan M. Holcomb, Jodi A. Hurley, Nicole Ibeth Illingworth, Mackensie L. Martin, Matthew Brian McCormack, Arthur F. Stanton, Patricia Ann Sumler, Alexia Rose Vriezelaar
Associate in Science, Early Childhood Education: Valentyna N. Gagnon, Olivia Gardom, Raja M. King, Greta A. Lacey, Jackie L. Lehman, Jessica McKeon, Augustine Owusu, Jessica Prieto Herrera, Karla Robalino, Kaylyn M. Vincent
Associate in Science, Engineering: John-Carlyle Reid Macioge, Tiberius A. Shafer
Associate in Science, Environmental Science: John Richard Beauregard, Holden P. Loverin, Shane A. O’Bryan, Braden Kelly Rice, Ryan S. Trela
Associate in Science, Fire Science: Michael C. Jordan Associate in Science, Health Science: Amber M. Brown, Kerstine C. Moore
Associate in Science, Human Services: Ainsworth G. Ainsley, Allison K. Casey, Crystal Lynn Chapman, KeShya Hawkins, Kialonni Hawkins, Katie Kelly, Sherry Lynn Sullivan, Aidan M. Wellington
Associate in Science, Mechatronics: Brock A. Prett, Callum J. Prett Associate in Science, Natural & Physical Sciences: Rian E. Brassard, Darwin X. Carangui, Charlotte Jo Fleury-Belman, Stefani A Forrest, Alexandra Hudson Associate in Science, Nursing: Karina A. Baver, Mercedes Hayes Bell, Daniel P. Berk, Nicole M. Bianco, Nathaniel R. Blackler, Victoria Blake, Isaac Boahen, Brittany L. Bourassa, Jessica A. Boyce, Yairibel Cedano Avila, Melissa Cobb, Santiago Diaz Charry, Sean G. Duma, Holya Ebiyatakyih, Gabriela P. Elicier Melendez, Laonie R. Ellerby, Grace Gallagher Ellrodt, Amber G. Fabiano, Charity A. Fianko, Nicholas A. Fortin, Jenessa M. Fuller, Marquisha Marie Fulton, Amber Lyn Furtado, Sabine Grout
Bartlett Zabera, Thomas Gwinnell, Taleara M. Hillery, Kobe D. Holloway, Luisa Castro, Brooke M. Kiger, Paige E. Killiard, Betty J. Klash Welsh, Nerline Erine N’gatta Koffi, Max W. Koivisto, Tori M. Lashway, Teressa N. LeBeau, Adele L. Lee, Bruna K. Lino, Sandra T. Littell, Jaquira M. Llanos, Ella Lyon, Trevor G. Maffuccio, Mwila Malama, Jennifer L. McCue-Ciempa, Alanah T. McLear, Elizabeth C. Botero, Payton L. Miller, Carrie E. Morelli, Rachel Moriarty, Orette Morris, Emma Claire Moser, Cara J. Moulton, Mireille Moussoyi, Lauren R. Mroz, Laura Murphy, Akash Nair, Clarinda M. Osei, McKensie M. Ovitt, Chiara M. Paris, Victoria K. Partridge, Tabor M. Paul, Amelia C. Pecon, Kelly Nicole Phipps, Alanza R. Quinones, Jeremiah P. Reagan, Peter Joseph Regan IV, Elisabeth Richman, Marissa R. Rivard, Petrina Monagaye Roberts, Stephanie Sanchez-Heredia, Alexandra R.
PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE ZOLLSHAN — THE BERKSHIRE EAGLE
PHOTOS BY TALIA LISSAUER
Graduates cheer during the 2026 MCLA graduation ceremony in North Adams on May 16.
Above: Graduates wave to loved ones. Below right: President James Birge congratulates a graduate.
WILLIAMS COLLEGE
BY JANE KAUFMAN
The Berkshire Eagle School name: Williams College
Graduation location/date: Williams College, June 7
Degrees conferred: 572 Bachelor of Arts, 26 Master of Arts in development economics, 11 Master of Arts in art history.
Honorary degrees: Journalist Dan Harris, Doctor of Humane Letters; Cecile McLorin Salvant, Doctor of Music
Retiring faculty: Karen R. Merrill, professor of history, emerita; Lee Y. Park, William R. Kenan Professor of Chemistry emerita; Lori A. Pedersen, lecturer in mathematics; David J. Zimmerman, professor of economics and Orrin Sage Professor of Political Economy, emeritus.
Valedictorians: Mica Calzolaio, Eve A. Hammerman, Forrest Hu, Abigail S. Wallace
Principal speaker: Composer, singer and visual artist Cécile McLorin Salvant
William Bradford Turner Citizenship Prize: Samantha Samuel
Memorable moment: Cécile McLorin Salvant sang. She opened by singing a poem by Hafiz for which she composed the melody.
She urged students to honor the unique qualities in themselves and in others.
“What I’m advocating for ultimately is a kindness that goes both ways,” she said. “That kindness toward yourself, toward what is a little strange within you, is that same kindness with which you can meet the people in the world around you.
“And you can keep giving that kindness both ways, even when you think you have none left to give,” she said. “So, I’m going to be most myself right now.”
She closed with the song “Somewhere,” from the musical “West Side Story,” with lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, who graduated from Williams in 1950. Leonard Bernstein wrote the music.
Jane Kaufman is a News Reporrter at The Berkshire Eagle. She can be reached at jkaufman@ berkshireeagle.com or 413-496-6125.
LOCAL WILLIAMS GRADUATES
WILLIAMSTOWN — Williams College President
Maud S. Mandel conferred bachelor of arts degrees to 14 local graduates at the college’s 237th Commencement on Sunday, June 7. Composer, singer and visual artist Cecile McLorin Salvant was the principal speaker.
This year’s local graduates are as follows: Alexis Chisom, Lee; Sam Jaffe, Great Barrington; Olivia Johnson, Bennington, Vt.; Zoe Kerns, North Adams; Cameron Langsdale, Pittsfield; Sabrina Lewis, Lenox; Cathy McPartland, Williamstown; Jon Oris, Otis; Mary Pelosky, Lenox; Daisy Rosalez, Williamstown; Emma Sandstrom, Williamstown; Maia Shore Sheppard, Pownal, Vt.; Eliza Sullivan, Manchester Center, Vt.; Kate Swann, Williamstown.
PHOTOS BY JANE KAUFMAN — THE BERKSHIRE EAGLE
Graduates embrace at Williams College commencement on June 7.
Maia Shore Sheppard of Pownal, Vt., is the daughter of two Williams College professors. Now she’s a graduate.
Cécile McLorin Salvant gave the keynote address at the Williams College. She sang twice for the graduates, first a poem by Hafiz and later “Somewhere,” from “West Side Story.” Michael Ma, class musician, played several times,
