Our Lady of the Sacred Heart High School held their 91st Annual Commencement Exercises on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at Sts. John and Paul Church. These exercises were the culmination of the graduation of the class of 2025, which began at the Baccalaureate Mass on Thursday, May 29, 2025.
The class was represented by Valedictorian Emily Katherine Funka and Salutatorian Kieran Christopher Tyler. Both of these outstanding students are recipients of the U.S. President’s Award for Educational Excellence, members of the National Honor Society, and AP Scholar with Distinction title holders. In addition to their scholastic accomplishments, both students were heavily involved in extracurricular activities and community service.
Salutatorian Kieran Tyler remarked on the momentous nature of the occasion in his speech:
“This [commencement] ceremony is the culmination of four years of experiences, perhaps some of the most formative experiences in a person’s life. The memories we make, the lessons we learn, and the friendships we form in high school influence and shape who we are on a fundamental level. The commencement ceremony will be the final experience that the class of 2025 will have together, and so I urge you all to drink in these next few hours and to truly appreciate your time here.” His words captured both the weight of the moment and the deep gratitude felt by a class preparing to say goodbye.
Valedictorian Emily Funka addressed the reality of change and offered a special tribute to the late Tavon Matthew Lane.
“Change will bring new friendships, new memories, new opportunities, and new people who care about us. Always remember that we will forever have our eighty-second classmate watching over us from Heaven and helping us to overcome our fears of change.” Her words reminded the Class of 2025 that even as they move forward, they are never alone.
Class President Anthony Hansen reflected on his and his classmates’ last four years.
“I’ve learned, and many of us have learned, that when life gets too heavy to carry on our own, God is still holding us. Even when we doubt, He is constant. Even when we fall short, His love never does. Some of us are here today not because the journey was smooth, but because grace got us through when we didn’t think we’d make it. So don’t be afraid to bring your faith into the future. Let God walk with you into your dreams, your struggles, your questions. He’s not just a part of our past; He’s the one who’s already waiting for us in the future.” His words were a powerful reminder that faith is not just something we carry with us — it’s something that carries us.
Under the direction of Mrs. Letitia Vallecorsa, the choir sang River in Judea arranged by John Leavitt and May the Road Rise Up to Meet You arranged by Jay Rouse.
It was a beautiful and heartfelt farewell.
In her remarks, President Terry O’Rourke Donoghue recounted the story of Charles Plumb, a U.S. Navy jet pilot who was shot down over enemy territory during the Vietnam War. After his miraculous rescue and return to the United States, Plumb encountered a man who recognized him as a Navy pilot — because he was the sailor who had packed the parachute that saved Plumb’s life. Mrs. Donoghue reminded graduates to be aware of the unsung heroes in their lives who “pack their parachutes” — parents, teachers, coaches, and more.
In his final Commencement address as OLSH Principal, Mr. Tim Plocinik urged graduates to remember the foundation and mission of Felician-sponsored OLSH:
“The heart of our Felician tradition is a simple, powerful call. Words spoken by our foundress, Blessed Angela Truszkowska: ‘Serve where you are needed.’ What Blessed Angela said are more than mere words… it’s a way of life. Because true leadership, servant leadership, isn’t about recognition… It’s about responsibility. It’s not about titles, it’s about timing, the willingness to step in, exactly when and where you’re needed most.”
Graduates received their diplomas to much applause from their teachers, coaches, peers, and loved ones in attendance.
After the tassels were turned and the class of 2025 officially graduated, they were inducted into the cohorts of OLSH alumni across the globe. Video production teacher, OLSH content creator, and OLSH Class of 2014 alum John Wojtechko welcomed the class of 2025 into the family of OLSH alumni that they will always be a part of.
Sr. Mary Francine Horos, math teacher and alumna of the class of 1968 led all those in attendance in the singing of the OLSH Alma Mater and then the faculty and staff in the Blessing of the Graduates.
The exercises closed with Chaplain Fr. Bill Dorner’s Benediction.
The 91st Annual Commencement Exercises were a memorable celebration of achievement, faith, and community. As the Class of 2025 steps forward into the next chapter of their lives, they carry with them the values and traditions of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart High School. With hearts full of hope and gratitude, these graduates are ready to serve where they are needed and to make a positive impact in the world.