“Be unapologetically yourself” was the direction given to 2026 graduates of the Lehigh Valley Charter HS for the Arts from their Principal Jennifer Levernier at ceremonies held at ArtsQuest-SteelStacks June 8. The principal’s address was a call to action, reminding students that “those who make the biggest impact think both critically and creatively.” Graduates were reminded of the sacrifices each of them, and their families have made to include both the arts and academics in their lives.

The 126 newly-minted graduates displayed their creativity and passion for the arts showcasing their talents during the ceremony. The Charter Arts Orchestra, under the direction of Tom Maher, performed “Pomp and Circumstance” as the students entered and played “War March of the Priests” as the recessional.

Charter Arts’ Touring Choir led by director David Macbeth performed the Star Spangle Banner. The Charter Arts 11/12 Choir sang an acappella version of “The Road Home” also directed by David Macbeth.

Students added to the visual appeal of the festivities by decorating their mortar boards in their own style. Some had quotes; some had colorful decorations; others were silly; some had meaningful phrases; but all were “unapologetically” a representation of themselves.

Two students are chosen each year to speak at graduation through an application process. The 2026 graduation speakers were Lila Dobrowolski, of Bethlehem, and Diana Herrera of Allentown.

Dobrowolski has been a Literary Arts major at the Charter Arts HS and has plans to attend Villanova University to major in criminology on a per-law track. She is also a member of the National Honor Society and received the World Language Award for Citizenship.

Herrera has been a dance major at Charter Arts and plans to attend the University of Pittsburgh to study international relations, also on a pre-law track. Herrera is a member of the National Honor Society, Sociedad Honoraria Hispanic Member, National Honor Society for Dance Arts member, and received the Social Studies Award for citizenship.

Students were congratulated and challenged by the evenings staff and administrative speakers. History teacher Doug Boyer said the class stood out for its character and the moral standards its members upheld.

In his opening remarks, Board of Directors President Mario Acerra encouraged graduates to “expose and resist tyranny.” He reminded them that “to fight darkness, they need to turn on the light.”

Levernier continued. “This is more than a graduation,” she said, “It is the end of one chapter, and we are celebrating your strength, creativity and resiliency.” Executive Director and CEO Dr. Christina Lincoln pointed out that “an arts education is your anchor. Be present and attend to each other.”

Diplomas were presented by Dr. Christina Lincoln, Jennifer Levernier, Assistant Principal Jessica Diana and department artistic directors. Special recognitions were given in each of the six core departments, as well as in each of the seven artistic departments.

Diana told graduates to remember their commitment to their craft.

“You are taking your talents to the world,” she said.