Gerstell Academy Celebrates Commencement

A large crowd of parents, friends, and alumni gathered to witness this momentous occasion.

Dr. Frederick G. Smith, Founder, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, and President Emeritus, led the traditional opening procession through the picturesque center of campus. The procession included members of the Board of Trustees, administration, alumni and faculty, accompanied by The Sounding Brass. The graduates followed, walking with their advisors and led by the distinctive sound of a solo bagpiper.

President Mr. John Polasko opened the ceremony with a brief introduction, and welcome.

 

Ms. Jenna Daly, Chair of the Music Department, performed the National Anthem.

 

Class of 2026 President Ashtyn Loque, led the invocation, followed by Mr. Brian Abbott, Head of Upper School who provided opening comments.

 

Valedictorian Kyle Rudich spoke to his classmates about the importance of living in the moment and appreciating those around them. Reflecting on the loss of his father, Kyle shared that we can never be certain when a moment might be our last with a loved one.

 

Ashtyn Logue presented the Senior Class Gift of a sound system for the Smith Baseball Complex to Dr. Frederick G. Smith, and Mr. Polasko.

 

Mr. Brian Abbott presented the Norm Smith Leadership Award to Erin Yelland.

 

Dr. Frederick G. Smith, along with Mr. John Polasko and Mr. Stephen Olszewski, honored guest, presented The Stephen Olszewski Excellence in Teaching award to Ms. Rachel Janowitz beloved middle school mathematics teacher, and Department Chair of Mathematics.

 

Dr. Frederick Smith addressed the graduates and presented the Christopher A. Poklemba Award to Charlie Crawford. Dr. Smith also presented the Gary E. Slyman Leadership Scholar Award to Bebe Adetunji. Monetary prizes accompanied the awards.

 

Diplomas were presented by Dr. Frederick G. Smith, Mr. John Polasko, Mr. Brian Abbott and Dr. Venice Paterakis, Vice President of the Board of Trustees. Dr. Jason Hammond, Mr. Steve Krulevitz, Mrs. Janine Wilson, Mr. Connor Eline’12 and Mrs. Melo Vaeth, represented members of the Board of Trustees and were also in attendance.

 

President Mr. John Polasko offered closing remarks, and the ceremony closed with the The Sounding Brass performing the Gerstell Alma Mater, accompanied by the guests and written by Deborah Paterakis.