A tradition started four years ago by the Sachem Alumni Association, successful alumni now give the commencement address for the graduation ceremonies at Sachem East and Sachem North.
This year’s speakers are both inductees of the Sachem Hall of Honor and have left their mark on the school and their respective career disciplines.
Sachem East’s speaker was 1986 graduate Michael Lau, a music executive who serves as the COO of Roundhill Music. He spoke about his love of gymnastics and positive impact the Sachem music program had on his life. He combined both loves to eventually produce music at levels as high as the Olympic Games.
Sachem North’s speaker was 1978 graduate Jerry Figgiani, a world renowned martial arts expert. He helped Sachem win its first Suffolk County football title in 1977, but in the 40 years since he has positively impacted thousands of students around the world through his character education programs.
Speakers in recent years include:
- 2016: Bob Greifeld (NASDAQ) ’77 & Laura Gentile (ESPN) ’90
- 2017: Stephen Costello (Sports Exec) ’79
- 2018: Joe Amplo (NAVY) ’95 & Lori Ann LoRocco (CNBC) ’89
- 2019: Jerry Figgiani (Martial Arts) ’78 & Michael Lau (Roundhill) ’86