The Tilles Center for Performing Arts has seen no lack of special guests grace the stage, but on June 24, Westbury High School seniors took their place in the spotlight as they celebrated their graduation.
The Tilles Center auditorium was packed with family, friends, Westbury faculty and staff, all coming to support the Class of 2016. Donned in their green gowns and mortarboards, the nearly 300 graduates were all smiles as they waited to receive their diplomas. 
“This is a celebration. From this day forward, you will embark on a new journey, using the skills you’ve learned at Westbury schools,” said board of education president Pless Dickerson, who encouraged them to never forget home. “No matter what path you take, reach back to help someone attain their goals. Give back to thank those who have supported you.”
High school valedictorian Denisha West was not only first in her class, but in the state for triple jump. In the fall, she will be heading to Marshall University.
“We will always cherish the memories that Westbury High School had to offer,” West said in her speech. “Don’t let anyone tell you who you are or what you represent. Seize each lesson. There’s no elevator for success, you have to take the stairs.”
Salutatorian Gabrielle Brathwaite said she was excited to be graduating, but also a little sentimental.
“We’ll never be here again like this, but I know we’ll all do great in life,” Brathwaite said. She will be going to the University of Michigan to pursue an engineering degree in the fall.
Fellow senior Jose Bonilla said he loved his time at Westbury. He was involved in the ROTC, band and took AP classes.
“The four years were excellent and amazing,” Bonilla said, who heads to Adelphi in the fall to study biochemistry. “Throughout the last four years, I don’t regret what I’ve done or been through. I would never take it back.”
Also taking his final bow at the graduation ceremonies was Westbury High School principal Manny Arias, who is retiring after a 44-year career in education.
“I’m starting a new beginning with them. It’s something new and different. You don’t know what the future holds, but it’s exciting,” Arias said. “This has been an excellent class. It’ll be the one I’ll remember the most.”
