On the beautiful summer morning of June 10, the Chapin community came together to celebrate the Class of 2026 at their Commencement ceremony.
Following a memorable week of traditions and celebrations — including a Kilts Concert, Twelfth Night and Upper School Awards Assembly — the Class of 2026 was ready for their special day.
Graduation morning began with the traditional Upper School Assembly at Chapin, where students, faculty and staff gathered to honor the senior class. The seniors lined the perimeter of Chapin’s Assembly Room, holding hands as they listened to heartfelt remarks and words of wisdom from Head of School Suzanne Fogarty, Head of the Upper School Allison Bishop and Class 12 Dean and Head of Upper School Arts Integration Samantha Sherman ’05. Seniors in Choral Club performed a beautiful medley of songs that left many teary eyes in the audience.
At 11:30 a.m., the 60 members of Class of 2026 made their special entrance into 583 Park Avenue, dressed in all-white dresses and paintsuits, taking their seats on the peony-adorned stage. Families, friends, students, faculty and staff were eager for the ceremony to begin as they beamed with pride for the graduates.
The program included a reading of “A Call to Celebrate,” by Ms. Bishop, followed by an inspiring and heartfelt Commencement address given by their chosen speaker, Associate Head of School Xiomara Hall, who brought the audience to their feet. Board Chair LeeAnn Black and Ms. Fogarty also gave remarks to the Class of 2026 and their families.
As is the tradition, the celebration included an arrangement of songs, including "Jerusalem," "The Parting Glass," "Gaudeamus Igitur" and the School Song, performed by Upper School students and the Choral Club under the direction of Choral Conductor Elizabeth G. Adler and accompanied by Walter F. Aparcio on piano.
As the ceremony drew to a close, the newly elected President and Vice President of Student Self-Government for the 2026-2027 school year joined Ms. Fogarty to present the diplomas. Each graduate proudly crossed the stage as the Chapin community applauded, marking an unforgettable milestone.
Congratulations to our “2e6endary” Class of 2026 on your graduation! The entire Chapin community is immensely proud of all that you have achieved. We look forward to following your journeys and welcoming you back to 100 East End Avenue soon!
