“I know I have been changed for the better,” sang the Lehigh Valley Academy HS choir to begin the graduation ceremony June 3 at Stabler Arena.

Principal Jennifer Nonnemacher reflected on the school’s motto of integrity and effort. “Whether you are heading to college, a career, the military, or taking a gap year, I hope you carry our motto with you. When life gets complicated, let integrity guide your choices. When things get hard, let effort drive your persistence.” These were the words of wisdom that Nonnemacher gave the graduating class before they embark on their next journey in life.

“As we both prepare to leave LVA, we do so with a treasure chest of memories and lessons learned,” said math teacher and faculty speaker Sonya Sigley. “The class of 2025 will forever hold a special place in my heart. I truly could not have dreamed of a better class to share my final year with.” She announced that she will be leaving alongside these new graduates while sharing fond memories and what she admires about them, such as being courageous and kind.

Tadeo Giganti Dima spoke next. He plans to attend Emmanuel College and study premed. He has been at Lehigh Valley Academy for two years and said he was afraid that he would be alone when he joined LVA, due to his peers being there longer than him. “Each and every one of you has proved me wrong,” he said, describing a community to lean on.

“There’s not a single person in this crowd that I can look out to today, that has not crossed paths with me at least once. And I find that to be truly wonderful.”

Student Council President Diana Fuentes, who plans to attend Wilkes University and study pharmacy, joked and kept her speech light and fun while still making sure to thank friends, teachers and family members.

“I’ve studied next to some of the smartest people I know. From dominating Jeopardy games to late-night FaceTime calls, trying to help each other understand Sigley’s math homework. Every one of the classmates I studied next to, dedicated their hard work to the passion of wanting to succeed.” Fuentes spoke highly of both her classmates and teachers.

Special Awards were presented by Susan Mauser; each of four worth $1,500.

The first scholarship was donated by the Lehigh Valley Private Equity Fund. This was awarded to Simon Hume. He plans to attend Northeastern University and study mechanical engineering. The second scholarship was also donated by Lehigh Valley Private Equity Fund. It was awarded to Nilesh Surendran. He plans to attend the University of Pittsburgh and study neuroscience. The third scholarship was donated by Arbor Insurance and awarded to Lola Ramos. She plans to attend Lehigh University to study computer science and business. The last scholarship was donated by Metz Culinary Management, awarded to Fuentes.

One more scholarship was awarded in remembrance of Assistant Principal Dr. Dan Jennings. It is based on the values of integrity, service before self and excellence, and was awarded to Simon Hume due to maintaining an A average in every course in high school, as well as being a part of multiple communities and clubs at LVA.