Graduates of Pierson High School gathered on the front lawn to celebrate a milestone years in the making as they received their diplomas during the school’s 2026 commencement ceremony.

The ceremony opened with a performance of the national anthem by members of the senior chorus before senior essayist Reece Trotter welcomed classmates, faculty, families and community members. Trotter reflected on the support that surrounded the graduating class and introduced the student speakers who would share their final messages with classmates.

Salutatorian Lily Caplin spoke about the memories and nostalgia that have defined her years in the Sag Harbor School District. As graduation approached, she said she found herself appreciating the everyday moments that made her time at Pierson so meaningful.

Reflecting on the close-knit nature of the Sag Harbor community, Caplin encouraged her classmates to remain open to forming new relationships while carrying with them the connections they built throughout their school years. She compared yearbooks, filled with handwritten notes and photographs, to the memories graduates will continue to carry long after leaving Pierson. 

“We have lots more living left to do,” she reminded her fellow graduates.

Valedictorian Madeline Quinn acknowledged the mix of excitement and sadness that comes with graduation, noting how much the class has grown together since their earliest days in Sag Harbor schools.

From learning songs as children and sledding down the school’s hill to standing together as graduating seniors, Quinn reflected on the shared experiences that shaped the Class of 2026. While many graduates will soon head in different directions, she said they all share the uncertainty that comes with beginning a new chapter and the community they come from.

Principal Brittany Carriero presented the Principal’s Award to Ashley Buestan Perez in recognition of her leadership and contributions to the school community.

The ceremony’s keynote address was delivered by Aerin Lauder, founder and creative director of AERIN, who encouraged graduates to embrace change, remain curious and trust themselves as they move forward.

Lauder shared personal stories about launching her business, explaining how persistence and creativity helped her succeed. She reflected on lessons learned from her grandmother, Estée Lauder, explaining that when she entered the fragrance industry, the market was largely dominated by European brands. Through determination and innovative thinking, Estée eventually earned the opportunity to have her products sold by Saks, despite facing numerous rejections along the way.

Aerin shared her favorite quote from her grandmother: “Whatever you do, do it well and with passion.”

She also reminded graduates that passion provides strength during difficult moments and emphasized that success does not require perfection. She encouraged students to trust their instincts, embrace their individuality, value discipline and grace, continue learning throughout life and never underestimate the importance of building meaningful relationships.

“No matter where life takes you,”Aerin said, “you carry your Sag Harbor community with you.”

Superintendent Jeff Nichols announced each graduate as diplomas were presented by Sag Harbor Board of Education President Sandi Kruel and Pierson Principal Brittany Carriero.

As the ceremony concluded, the newly minted graduates made one final climb together, running up the school’s hill before tossing their caps into the air, marking the official beginning of the next chapter for Pierson High School’s Class of 2026.

Photos courtesy of Rise Media, Inc.