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Bethel Park High School held its 116th annual Commencement ceremony on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at Black Hawk Stadium on a warm summer evening, celebrating the achievements of the 313 graduates who make up the Class of 2025—one of the smallest graduating classes in recent school history.
Of the graduating seniors, 85 were members of the National Honor Society. Approximately 73% of students will attend a four-year college or university, while another 8% will attend two-year institutions. Less than 1% of the class will enter the military, while approximately 18% are undecided or plan to enter the workforce. Notably, a school-record four students received appointments to U.S. service academies: Aaron Hofbauer to the United States Military Academy at West Point, and Rocco Capozzoli, Brady McKiernan, and Clancy Orie to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis.
In their commencement addresses, outgoing principal Mr. Joseph Villani and superintendent Dr. James Walsh praised the Class of 2025 for their accomplishments, resilience, and character. Villani, delivering his final address before becoming an assistant superintendent, called the graduates “truly special” and thanked them for making his tenure “one of the most meaningful and proudest experiences” of his life. He encouraged them to let their inner light shine and reminded them that their “legacy of character, effort, and excellence” would endure.
Dr. Walsh celebrated the students’ wide-ranging achievements and commended their “resiliency and grit against forces of adversity.” He urged graduates to value kindness, integrity, and friendship, reminding them that success is defined not by titles but by character. “Who do you want to be?” he asked, encouraging them to stay connected with each other and use their collective strength as a force for good.
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Valedictorian Devin Collier reflected on the class’s journey from kindergarten through the pandemic, emphasizing the importance of kindness. “The world certainly needs more of our future professions, but above all, it needs more kindness,” he said. He closed his remarks with a quote from Curious George: “You never do know what’s around the bend, a big adventure or a brand-new friend.”
Salutatorian Josh Tierney thanked educators, family, and classmates, calling his peers a source of inspiration and growth. “You have shaped me into the person I am,” he said. Tierney centered his message around the phrase “People change people,” urging classmates to lead with kindness, live with intention, and pursue their passions with courage.
During the ceremony, graduates entering military service were honored with red, white, and blue cords and BPHS challenge coins and retired Marine Sgt. Greg Skavinski, a Bethel Park resident and grandparent, led the recognition.
Senior Class President, Ella Milliken, delivered the Senior Farewell, encouraging graduates to remain confident and optimistic. Student Government President Lyla Walsh concluded the evening by leading her classmates in the traditional turning of the tassels and tossing of the caps.
To view the complete list of graduates and the event program, click the link below. Best wishes to the Class of 2025—thank you for the warm memories, and may you continue to do wondrous things!