Introduced by High School Principal Ron Hoffer as the "visionary behind the success of our programs," Superintendent Dr. Rosemary Jones welcomed the assembly with a special nod to returning alumni for "being part of a seven-year [Alumni Walk] tradition." Dr. Jones also acknowledged the dedication, wisdom, and unrelenting commitment of the High School faculty, staff, and administrators, and praised the parents, families, and community members for their support.

Congratulating the Class of 2010, Dr. Jones confided, "This is a very special class for me. In a way, I am graduating with you as I prepare to retire at the end of the month. Just as your dreams and wishes have been fulfilled, I want you to know, so have mine. I have each of you to thank for that."

With great pride, Dr. Jones enumerated the class statistics: "You have brought distinction to yourselves and family, your school, your community. You have accomplished what many have said were impossible goals...met the most rigorous academic standards, completed the most advanced classes, and excelled in more sports and arts, and achieved more charitable goals than any previous class, and as a result, this class has more acceptances to top-tiered universities than any other class in the history of Sayville schools."

Dr. Jones expressed confidence that Sayville High School graduates had the building blocks for making this world a better place and resolving unforeseen future challenges, not unlike the Gulf Oil Spill.

Admitting she loves the music of Lady Gaga, Dr. Jones borrowed from the pop artist’s lyrics for specific advice: There will be many ‘love games,’ many ‘bad romances,’ many professors, bosses, even commanding officers, with ‘poker faces.’ "I encourage you to put down your telephones and absorb all the wonderful things around you...."