BG Celebrates the Class of 2026 at 60th Commencement

NASHUA, N.H. – Bishop Guertin High School held its 60th Commencement Ceremony honoring the Class of 2026 on Sunday, May 31.

For the 187 graduating seniors, the afternoon was a celebration of their remarkable achievements over the past four years. From academic excellence and athletic accomplishments to service and community projects and personal growth, this year’s graduating class leaves behind a legacy of dedication and community spirit.

Surrounded by friends and family inside the Roedel Field House, the graduates bid farewell to their time as BG students and looked ahead to new beginnings as members of the school’s welcoming and far-reaching alumni network.

Maxwell Moynihan served as the Master of Ceremonies, welcoming friends and family to campus to celebrate the Class of 2026.

The honor of serving as this year’s valedictorian was bestowed upon Mohid Khan, the son of Hasan and Nadia Khan. A standout scholar who was heavily involved in extracurricular activities during his time at BG, Khan will attend Yale University this fall, where he plans to study neuroscience and religious studies.

In his valedictory address, Khan reminded his classmates that failure can often be a positive force for growth. Reflecting on his own experiences, he shared how setbacks helped him become a more confident student and person.

“At times, even my best friends will lose faith,” Khan told his peers. “Yet, self-confidence and the ability to embrace failure; that’s half the battle.”

Samuel Woodward, son of Jeffrey and Mary (Abbott) Woodward ’92, was named class salutatorian. In his speech, Woodward — who plans to continue his studies at the University of Massachusetts this fall — encouraged his classmates to make an impact on the people around them, both loved ones and strangers alike, while also making memories and enjoying the journey along the way.

Principal Jason Strniste echoed a similar theme in his closing remarks, speaking about how perceived failures often become moments of growth and resilience. He praised the Class of 2026 for overcoming obstacles throughout their high school journey and for setting an example of hard work and perseverance for the students who will follow in their footsteps.

As the ceremony concluded, caps flew into the air and the Bishop Guertin Class of 2026 officially became alumni, ready to leave their mark on the world grounded in the faith, service, and tradition they embraced during their four years on Lund Road.

Departmental and class awards were also presented to members of the Class of 2026:

Class Awards

The Thomas Sullivan Memorial Scholar-Athlete Awards are presented to two seniors who are the commendable and enviable combination of outstanding scholars and fine athletes. The Scholar-Athlete Awards are given in memory of Thomas Sullivan. Mr. Ryan Brown, Director of Athletics, presented this year’s Thomas Sullivan Scholar-Athlete Awards to Samuel Woodward and Olivia Baker.

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The Larry Elliott Loyalty Award is given annually in loving memory of Larry Elliott, a friend and benefactor of the school and is presented to a senior whose dedication and loyalty to Bishop Guertin cannot be adequately expressed in words. The senior is chosen by the faculty and staff and exemplifies dedication and loyalty through both curricular and co-curricular activities and is also presented a scholarship as part of the award. The winner of the 2026 Larry Elliott Award was given to Jack Spengler.

The All-Guertin Award is presented in memory of Joseph P. Lebrecque. This is the most prestigious award offered to a senior and is presented to a student who enjoys the respect of the entire school community. Selected by the faculty and staff, this senior is an outstanding student who is dedicated to learning, has participated in interscholastic activities, and has given service to the school and community. Presented with this award is the Stephen J. Boland ’86 Memorial Scholarship, granted in his memory. BG is proud to announce the recipient of this year’s All-Guertin Award was given to Maxwell Moynihan.

Additionally, The Cornerstone Award was presented on Friday evening at the Senior Awards and honors a student who is foundational to the school, its clubs and activities, who represents the values of the school both in word and in deed. It is awarded to a student who is not necessarily a captain or MVP of a team, president of a club, or honored by any other existing award. During the awarding process, it is sometimes easy for a student to be overlooked and not noticed, especially one who prefers to work quietly in the background. This type of leadership is subtle, but very effective. The person we honor with this award is present and has always participated in clubs and activities — a respected member of the senior class. Character and a sense of values are beyond question; this person is a cornerstone for the school and the community. The award is determined after consultation with the faculty and staff, club moderators and coaches. This year’s recipient was Anne-Marie Hammond

Student Body President Isabella Fayad was also presented with The Senior Award, one of the highest honors bestowed upon a graduating senior. Selected by the faculty, staff, and members of the junior class, the award recognizes the student who best exemplifies outstanding leadership, character, and commitment across all areas of the school community. Fayad’s dedication, involvement, and positive influence throughout her time at Bishop Guertin made her a fitting recipient of this prestigious distinction.

The faculty and staff of Bishop Guertin High School wish the Class of 2026 the best in all their future endeavors.