On Saturday, June 6, 117 members of the Viewpoint Class of 2026 crossed the stage on Ring Family Field, celebrating years of academic achievement, personal growth, and meaningful connections. Surrounded by proud families, friends, faculty, and staff, graduates reflected on their time in the canyon while looking ahead to the opportunities that await them.

Head of School Mark McKee opened the ceremony by reflecting on the Class of 2026's Upper School journey and encouraging graduates to embrace a life of service. Noting that each year of high school is centered around one of Viewpoint's core values, McKee shared that the Class of 2026's senior year was devoted to excellence, reminding graduates that "true excellence is service."

"To live in service to an idea greater than oneself will always fulfill you," McKee said.

Following McKee's remarks, Salutatorian Avi Shah '26 reflected on the relationships, chance encounters, and shared experiences that shaped the Class of 2026's journey. Drawing on a story about his grandfather's life-changing decision to remain in the United States after a chance conversation in a college dining hall, Shah explored the idea of the butterfly effect and the lasting impact people can have on one another's lives.

"So many things had to go exactly right for us to end up on this stage as the people we are, so be grateful for it," Shah shared.

The ceremony also featured several musical performances, including "Blue Mambo" by the Upper School Wind Ensemble, "Glorious" performed by the Upper School Concert Choir, and "Moon River" performed by Twelfth Grade String Students.

Continuing Viewpoint's tradition of welcoming distinguished members of the community to address graduates, the School welcomed alumnus Brenden Rodriquez '16, a Lieutenant Junior Grade and Naval Flight Officer in the United States Navy, as the commencement speaker.

Introduced by Anniston Aragon '26, Rodriquez returned to campus ten years after graduating from Viewpoint to reflect on the lessons that have guided his journey since leaving the canyon. Drawing from his experiences in military service, he encouraged graduates to seek opportunities to serve others, remain adaptable in the face of unexpected challenges, and appreciate the small moments that make each stage of life meaningful.

"Find something you love, find something you're good at, and something that helps those around you, and put it to use to serve the greater good," Rodriquez said.

Later in the ceremony, Valedictorian Joseph Abdou '26 reflected on the importance of the everyday choices that shape life's larger journey.

"It is not the way that you begin that writes your story's conclusion. Instead, it is written by the 35,000 decisions that you'll make today, tomorrow, and the day after that," Abdou said.

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of diplomas and the recognition of several outstanding members of the graduating class. Andrew Neville '26 received the Arthur B. O'Leary Award, Viewpoint's highest honor for a senior. Established in 1986 by the Board of Trustees, the award recognizes the student who best exemplifies the qualities Viewpoint strives to develop in its graduates, including service to others, academic accomplishment, positive spirit, and good character.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026! As they depart Viewpoint and begin new journeys across the country and around the world, we wish them continued success and fulfillment in the years ahead. The recording of the ceremony is now available for viewing here.