Reading Memorial High School celebrates the Class of 2025
On Friday, May 30, 2025, the Reading Memorial High School (RMHS) community came together at the Hawkes Fieldhouse to celebrate the Class of 2025 during their commencement ceremony. The event, which featured heartfelt speeches, musical performances, and the conferring of diplomas, honored the achievements, resilience, and future aspirations of this year’s graduating class.
Student Council and Class President Justin Raimo. Photo from the RCTV Youtube recording.
The ceremony opened with a professional performed by the RMHS Band under the direction of Joseph Mulligan, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Justin Raimo, Student Council and Class President. Choral Seniors performed the National Anthem before Raimo delivered an inspiring address centered on unity and strength, using the metaphor of a bundle of sticks to represent how the class succeed together through collaboration, from championship wins to sidewalk chalk that brought the class closer.
Caitlin DeRosa, the Class of 2025 Saluditorian, encouraged classmates to approach challenges with a growth mindset, reminding them: “Take advantage of every opportunity, not because you have to, but because you get to.”
RMHS Choirs performing Let the River Run. Photo from the RCTV Youtube recording.
Valedictorian Vivian Bateman spoke about the beauty of imperfection and the lessons found in hardship, urging graduates to embrace their individuality. “Be proud of the blemishes - they’re proof that you lived and tried,” she said, closing with, “Class of 2025, go out, make mistakes, and change the world.”
Musical performances, including “Let the River Run” by the RMHS Choirs led by Andy Mullen, added moments of reflection and celebration.
Principal Jessica Callanan giving her address to the Class of 2025. Photo from the RCTV Youtube recording.
Principal Jessica Callanan addressed the class with gratitude for their resilience, community spirit, and individuality. She acknowledged the diverse futures ahead - from college and trade schools to military service and the workforce - encouraging students to continue helping others and reminding them that “your path may not always be linear.”
Superintendent Dr. Thomas Milaschewski recognized the class’s academic and extracurricular successes, including 70 National Honor Society members and the launch of the Unified Basketball Team. He highlighted students who demonstrated leadership and inclusion - welcoming new students from Japan, Haiti, and Ukraine, and supporting peers through challenges. “You are not just talented - you are generous,” he said.
Following the conferring of diplomas by School Committee members Thomas Wise and Carla Nazarro, Assistant Principal Kadi Buckley, and Principal Callanan, students were invited to move their tassels from right to left, officially marking their transition from students to graduates.
A view of the Hawkes Fieldhouse full with the RMHS Class of 2025 and their families. Photo from the RCTV Youtube recording.
Graduates from the Class of 2025 will continue their journeys at a wide range of institutions, including Harvard University, WIlliams College, Tufts, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, University of British Columbia, United States Air Force Academy, Massachusetts State universities, and several community colleges. Others will pursue careers, gap years, or service in the United States Marine Corps.
As the ceremony concluded, Principal Callanan reminded students and families to take pride in the day. “Don’t downplay this milestone. Be proud of what you’ve accomplished and the community that helped you get there.”
