183 seniors from Class of 2025 set for next step in their life’s journey
ERMA — The Class of 2025 gathered on the field at Lower Cape May Regional High School for the final time June 18, sharing smiles and memories from their four years leading up to the graduation ceremony.
While the 183 students’ futures may be bright, the event was held beneath brooding skies threatening rain.
Class President Sophia Vitelli introduced the class, followed by “Pomp and Circumstance” by the band, led by Director John Drechen.
Olivia Grace Lewis led the Pledge of Allegiance and Jillian Endicott sang the “Star Spangled Banner.”
Senior Ava D’Amico delivered the Welcoming Address.
“I am honored to welcome you to the 2025 LCMR commencement ceremony, a moment that marks the beginning of the end of our time as students here,” she said. “While our years as students at LCMR are coming to a close, there is something special about becoming an LCMR alumni.”
D’Amico said graduation is not the end but the beginning, offering a “multitude of new opportunities to give back.”
“So many former students have found ways to stay connected to LCMR in many ways,” she said, noting students come from Lower Township, Cape May, West Cape May, Cape May Point and other surrounding communities. “The sense of community that we have built as a class does not disappear once we walk across the stage, your impact never really ends unless you allow it to.”
She said alumni play a very important role in the school, noting many teachers are graduates themselves.
“Alumni have created scholarships for students attending higher education, opened the doors to their businesses for students interested in Work Based Learning, returned to LCMR to give presentations on their careers, have donated their time to help as tutors, coaches and so much more,” she said.
D’Amico said doors are open for students as well.
“Before even entering adulthood, my fellow students have been accepted into prestigious universities, committed to college-level athletics, have attended and won state-level competitions through skillsUSA, have obtained experience working in professional environments through work-based learning, and have promoted the importance of vulnerability when it comes to mental health through Morgan’s Message,” she said. “We have already accomplished so much, it’s exciting to see how we will use our skills fostered at LCMR to flourish and improve our community post graduation.”
Samantha Benigno delivered the Academic Address.
“Dating back to 1961, LCMR has been more than just a place to take classes — it’s been a second home for generations of students across communities. It’s a place where teachers double as mentors, lunch staff ask how your game went and our administration knows every student by name,” she said. “We have championship sports teams, award-winning musicians, skills USA champions and a theater program that brings Broadway-level energy to our stage.”
Benigno said the culture goes beyond trophies and titles.
“At LCMR, students support each other. Whether it’s cheering for our athletes on the field, rallying behind a classmate in need, or coming together to fight for a community cause — we show up. We always show up.”
Lawrence Ziemba offered the Principal’s Address and Superintendent Greg Lasher certified the class.
In her Farewell Address, Autumn Richards welcomed students to a new chapter in their lives.
“I would like to welcome you to the end. The end of endless notes in Mr. Pacevich’s biology class. The end of getting your daily bagel at the Bagel Shop. The end of screaming yourselves hoarse in the student section. The end of regular debates over silly things in Mr. Vitale’s English class. The end of watching the LCMToday show in home base every Monday morning. And the end of racing to make it in time for that 7:45 bell. Welcome seniors, to the end of high school,” she said. “This is a scary yet exciting time for all of us. Emotions are running high, I know. But we did it. We made it to the end.”
Richards looked back on their journey.
“Four years ago, we entered the halls of LCMR not knowing what to expect. And yet, not only did we grow accustomed to the hallways, classrooms, cafeteria, theater and gymnasiums, these things became part of who we are. In the time that we have spent here, we have made an investment of ourselves into the spirit of our school,” she said.
Richards said all of the graduates share one thing in common.
“We are dedicated. Dedicated to our school, dedicated to our community and, most importantly, dedicated to each other,” she said. “I know some of you have known who you wanted to be since you were little, when high school, and senior year, was a distant thought. And because of the dedication we have, those childhood dreams are about to come true.”
She said the class has formed a strong bond.
“We are a family that has been learning and growing together. And just like every family, we have our fights and disagreements. But in the end, deep down, we do really care about one another. No matter how far we go, we can always count on the dedication and strength that stems from the community of the 2025 Caper Tigers,” Richards said. “And now, the adventure begins. Goodbye, my dear classmates. I cannot wait to see what the future has in store for us.”
By CRAIG D. SCHENCK/Cape May Star and Wave
