![Congratulations, Class of 2026!]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1780947516/ndnjorg/vhfzkq1wikmozmbtv00u/DSC_5536.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1780947516/ndnjorg/vhfzkq1wikmozmbtv00u/DSC_5536.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1780947516/ndnjorg/vhfzkq1wikmozmbtv00u/DSC_5536.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1780947516/ndnjorg/vhfzkq1wikmozmbtv00u/DSC_5536.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1780947516/ndnjorg/vhfzkq1wikmozmbtv00u/DSC_5536.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1780947516/ndnjorg/vhfzkq1wikmozmbtv00u/DSC_5536.jpg","width":2200}])
The Notre Dame community gathered on Sunday, June 7, to celebrate the 66th Annual Commencement Ceremony for the Notre Dame Class of 2026 at the CURE Arena. The event was attended by family, friends, administration, faculty, and staff, along with Dr. Vincent de Paul Schmidt, the Superintendent for Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Trenton, Bonnie Milecki, Assistant Superintendent, School Development and Operations, and John Tattory, Notre Dame Board of Governors Chairman.
On Saturday evening, a Baccalaureate Mass was held in the Notre Dame Auditorium, celebrated by our Bishop David O’Connell and assisted by Deacon Rich Hobson. This mass is a beautiful testament to our faith and community.
The Class of 2026 has exemplified dedication and commitment to the Mercy Core Values, education, and resilience, resulting in exceptional academic, artistic, service, and athletic achievements. Their success, a reflection of the unwavering support of their teachers, families, and the wider school community, is a shared victory we all celebrate.
The class was recognized for its outstanding academic prowess, securing over $32 million in scholarships. Notably, 53 student-athletes will continue their athletic careers at a collegiate level. A record, 7 CVC Championships were won in 2025-26: Girls Swimming, Boys Soccer, Boys Golf, Boys Lacrosse, Girls Lacrosse, Boys Indoor and Outdoor Track. In line with the Notre Dame Mercy Core Value of Service, the graduating class served the community and did capstone projects based on their service.
Special recognition was given to Valedictorian Simone Nobile Pettit and Salutatorian Olivia A. Blount for their exceptional academic achievements and leadership. The pair shared words of wisdom about life and their time at Notre Dame.
Awards were presented to students at the graduation ceremony, including the Award for Excellence in Religion & Principal’s Award, both awarded to Josephine Margaret Vernon, and the Irish Spirit Award, awarded to Kara Rose Lynch and Ryan Anthony Lushbaugh, in recognition of students' outstanding contributions to the school community.
Above all, the Class of 2026 has demonstrated exceptional character and values, embodying kindness, empathy, and a genuine commitment to positively impacting the world around them. As they transition to the next phase of their lives, we urge everyone to keep them in their thoughts and prayers.
Congratulations to the Class of 2026 for their remarkable achievements and best wishes for their future endeavors!
