By Ella Schwalbe
Rye Country Day School celebrated its 157th commencement recently, honoring 111 graduates in the Class of 2026.
“The world needs accomplished people who care, who listen, who build bridges, who show empathy, and who use their talents to improve the lives of others,” Head of School Randall Dunn told the graduates. “The world needs you. Stand up for what matters to you. Help someone who can never repay you. And above all, love the journey.”
Student Body President Nola Coady emphasized the support of the community in her remarks. “Every decision that we wrestled with, every hard task we undertook, every challenge we took a deep breath and faced — everyone here today, our teachers, parents, and family members, saw us through those moments.”
Senior Class President Selena Zhang’s remarks touched on a similar theme. “I hope we can hold on to that feeling of home wherever we may go,” she said.
The ceremony featured remarks from teacher Ginny Black, who retired this year after 48 years of teaching middle school English. She was also language arts coordinator, department chairwoman, committee member, mentor, and advisor to generations of Wildcats.
“Graduates — today, you may be ready to let go with your hands. But you don’t ever have to let go with your hearts,” she said. “Hold us close. Because we love you.”
The graduation concluded with the presentation of diplomas by Dunn, Board of Trustees President Rosa Perkins P’26, P’28, and Upper School Principal Jenny Heath.
Music for the ceremony included the RCDS String Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, and Cosmopolitan Brass Quintet, along with vocal performances by the Concert Choir and WildScats a cappella group.
