Dobbs Ferry Bids Farewell to 'Greatest Group Ever'

DOBBS FERRY, N.Y. – As the Dobbs Ferry graduation ceremony came to an end Saturday, the sun began to set high above the Hudson River.

It was a fitting scene for members of the Class of 2012, who had the sun set on their own time as Eagles.

Dressed in white and blue gowns, Dobbs Ferry seniors were honored in the 111th annual commencement ceremony Saturday evening in the village’s Waterfront Park.  With the river in the background, students reminisced about the past and looked forward to the future.

High School Principal John Falino congratulated the class for being what he called the “most dedicated, thoughtful, hardworking and driven group of students” he has ever met.

Senior Martin Ascher agreed with Falino during his welcoming speech.

“I think it’s safe to say that our class has exceeded all expectations, as high as they were, although this shouldn’t come as a surprise,” Ascher said.

“Even though the years before us have all said this, we are the greatest group to ever grace the school,” he said, drawing laughter from the crowd.

Salutatorian Regina Chan spoke about maturity and what lies ahead for the graduates as they part ways and go about their lives. She spoke about the need for balance, from money to emotions to thoughts and actions.

“While it is difficult for us to balance on the economic tightrope, we should view this as an opportunity,” she said. “It is an opportunity to be challenged and to use our assets to build our future. If life were easy, there would be no excitement and nothing worthy of perseverance.”

Falino encouraged the group to be people who inspire others and help make the world a better place.

“Graduation is not the end of something great but the very beginning to your path to greatness,” he said. 

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