Forrestdale School’s Class of 2016 has graduated.

At the June 16 ceremony, held at Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School (RFH), diplomas were awarded to 104 eighth graders.

Student Government Association President Peyton Ming, in his “Greetings from the Class,” urged his classmates to make solid plans for the future.

“Peter Drucker once said that the best way to predict the future is to plan for it,” Peyton said. “Have a plan, take responsibility, take chances, and ask for help when you need it.

“Keep putting one foot in front of the other, and before you know it you may have climbed a mountain.”

Student Government Association Treasurer Rylie Spiegel, in her presentation of the class gift, announced that the Class of 2016 will use funds they have raised to restore a vintage aerial map of the Borough of Rumson. The map will hang in the lobby of Forrestdale School.

Forrestdale School Music Teacher John Lebitsch led the Graduation Ensemble in performances of Pomp and Circumstance (processional) and Sugar Creek Overture (recessional). The eighth grade choir, directed by Forrestdale School Music Teacher Barbara Leutz, performed Miley Cyrus’ The Climb by Miley Cyrus.

Forrestdale School Principal Jennifer Gibbons addressed the Class of 2016.

“Four years ago, we gathered together in the Forrestdale Gym after Hurricane Sandy, many of our classmates and teachers greatly impacted by the damage to their homes but all present and together as a family,” Gibbons said. “We played the Phil Phillips song and focused on his lyrics — ‘Just know you’re not alone, I’m gonna make this place your home.’

“That moment was poignant as I looked out and saw just how safe and comfortable our family made one another feel.

“I have never forgotten that, and I remind you of it tonight — four years later as you graduate — so that you never forget that Forrestdale will always be your home.”

Gibbons performed the roll call as Superintendent John Bormann and Board of Education President Colleen O’Connor awarded diplomas. Bormann then presented the Class of 2016.

“An ancient Nigerian proverb reminds us that it takes a village to raise a child,” Bormann said. “If you believe this, as I do, you must also agree that our village here in Rumson has gotten it right — especially when you look upon the accomplished and attractive class that sits before us tonight.

“Whether we measure this by championships in basketball and soccer, top placements in math tournaments, second place in Music in the Park, or the 1,475 hours of community service carried out, there is no denying that Rumson is igniting the potential of our students.

“Parents and families, thank you for raising your children in our village. This evening you must be proud, but our graduates did not do it alone.

“Remember that it is your love and guidance that has seen them to this point and will be needed as much, if not more, as they move forward.”

Graduates received the following awards:

• Excellence in Academic Engagement — Anna Nowell and Julia Perconti (English Language Arts), Meghan Connolly, Nina Gettings, and Jordan Johnson (Math), Sarah Hanlon (Science), James Greeley (Social Studies), Rylie Spiegel (Spanish), Katie Taylor-Jackson (French);
• Excellence in Academic Achievement — Sophia Barry (Pre-Algebra), Ellen Daly (Algebra), Gustav Hansen (Algebra II, English Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, and French), Matthew Garvey (Geometry), Emily Grossarth (Spanish);
• Special Subject Area Awards — Sophia Galinos and Emma Schweitzer (Health), Riley Glenn and Eliana Swell (Physical Education), Gustav Hansen and Peyton Ming (Technology), Rebecca Loughran and Cole Wall-Esteves (Music), Francesca Black and Rory McGill (Drama), Tristan Izzo and Danielle Whitman (Band), Samuel Bailey (Jazz), Eva Farr and Olivia Puglise (Art);
• Creative Spirit Award in Memory of Lynn Reinalda (Art) — Peyton Ming;
• Sarah Beels Dunikoski Trust Award for Excellence in Vocal Music — Sarah Hanlon and Peter Robinson;
• Alex J. Shanley Award for Extraordinary Determination — James Greeley;
• Jane Talmage Perfect Attendance Award — Daniel Afflito, Michael Cushing, Logan Forster, Peyton Ming, Sophia Passalaqua, Peter Robinson, Eliana Swell;
• Nancy E. Guthrie “One Student Makes a Difference” Award — Ryan Patella;
• Parent Teacher Organization Awards — Ellen Daly, Alice Havard
• Rumson Education Foundation 21st Century Learner Award — Rylie Spiegel;
• Mary Owen Borden Memorial Foundation Awards for Academic Excellence — Darby Albanese, Caitlin Wingertzahn;
• President’s Award for Educational Excellence — Caroline Fernandes, Gustav Hansen, Jordan Johnson, Eliana Swell.

Congratulations to the Forrestdale Class of 2016!