On Friday, June 27th, the FDNY Foundation joined the FDNY at a graduation ceremony for the graduating class of the Capt. Vernon A. Richard High School for Fire and Life Safety. The graduation ceremony took place at the FDNY Fire Academy on Randall’s Island. This year, 70 students graduated. Their hard work, dedication and perseverance have led them to this important milestone.
The FDNY Foundation congratulates all of this year’s graduates! We wish them the best of luck as they continue on their journeys. The Capt. Vernon A. Richard High School for Fire and Life Safety and FDNY Youth EMS programs are largely funded by the FDNY Foundation. We are proud to continue to support these great programs! The High School aims to reach talented, dedicated young men and women, many of whom are looking for a career with the FDNY.
“Getting here wasn’t easy. Some days were full of laughter and light, and others were long, frustrating, and exhausting. But we kept going—not because the road was easy, but because we refused to stop,” said Salutatorian Mia Luna, who will be studying computer engineering at Syracuse University this Fall. “We were challenged beyond textbooks. Now we open a new chapter of our lives.”
First Deputy Commissioner Mark Guerra extended a heartfelt invitation to the graduates, encouraging them to return and apply their future skills. “No matter what you do in the next few years, afterwards, I want you to come back here and be a part of this great family more than you already are.”
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the school has consistently launched students into careers in public service. Nearly 300 high school alumni have earned their New York State EMT Certification through the Youth EMS Academy, and 108 graduates have gone on to join the FDNY.
To view more photos from the ceremony, click HERE.