WAYNESBORO, Pa. — More than 345 seniors officially transitioned from students to alumni during the 144th Annual Commencement for Waynesboro Area Senior High School on May 29, 2026. The evening ceremony featured traditional musical performances, addresses from student leaders, and remarks from district administrators as the class of 2026 looked forward to careers, higher education, and military service.
The ceremony opened with a prelude by the high school wind ensemble, which performed “Emblems of America” before leading the traditional processional to Edward Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance”. Following the arrival of the graduating class, Treasurer Lily Cool delivered the opening greeting, followed by Historian Jadyn Witmer leading the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. The wind ensemble then performed “The Star-Spangled Banner” and the school’s alma mater.
Jada Twigg delivered the Summa Cum Laude speech, reflecting on the academic triumphs of the class. Student representation continued with Vice President Blake Jones introducing Superintendent Dr. Rita Sterner-Hine, who offered remarks to the families and community members in attendance.
Principal Dr. Allison Kopco and Assistant Principal Derek Null addressed the graduates, praising their resilience and community commitment. Class President Christina Pan gave the commencement address, urging her peers to embrace change as they depart the high school halls.
Following the speeches, Kopco presented the class for graduation, which was formally accepted by Assistant Superintendent Dr. Diane McCallum. Class officers presented the diplomas and class roll, with Secretary Nevaeh Debrick leading the acceptance of diplomas. The ceremony concluded with the wind ensemble playing Johannes Hanssen’s “Valdres March” during the recessional.
The class of 2026 is charting a wide variety of paths following graduation. A substantial portion of the class has elected to immediately enter the workforce, taking jobs locally and regionally. Dozens of other graduates will attend regional post-secondary institutions, including large cohorts enrolling at Hagerstown Community College and Pennsylvania State University.
Several seniors have also committed to serving the nation, with enlistments confirmed in the United States Army, the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, the United States Marines, and the United States Air Force. Others will pursue specialized vocational paths at technical and trade institutions, such as the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics and the Culinary Institute of America.
