Newark Valley’s Class of 2024 gathered on the football field to cross the finish line and get their diplomas Friday morning.

The stands filled with family and friends waiting for the 83 graduating seniors to start the procession. There was a heaviness in the air as this next generation ventures out into the world, with one seat draped in a cap and gown in memory of a fellow student.

Last Sunday, 18-year-old Connor VanZile died in a car accident on Bailey Hollow Road, less than 10 minutes from Newark Valley High School.

First-year Executive Principal Todd Schaffer offered advice and encouragement to the graduating class.

“The passing of your classmate has left a void in our community and is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment that we have together,” he said.

The tight-knit community of Newark Valley, known for its resilience, rallied together to support grieving family and friends. A somber ovation swept over everyone as relatives of Connor VanZile accepted his diploma.

The Newark Valley valedictorian and salutatorian gave speeches thanking faculty and staff, and said goodbye to classmates as they go their separate ways, highlighting the soon to be realities of adulthood.

From going off to college, to paying off student debt, these Newark Valley graduates are ready to conquer their endless possibilities, said valedictorian Mikayla Lawrence.

“I didn’t know how to come across as motivational without sounding cliche or ignorant of the struggles we face now and will face throughout our lives,” said Lawrence. “However, I realized that maybe the point is that motivation comes from within, from ourselves.”

More: Binghamton High School graduation, Class of 2024: See the photos

The Newark Valley Class of 2024 moved their tassels from right to left “as a sign of unity” as caps went flying into the air.

Contact Kalyn Grant at kcgrant@gannett.com. To get unlimited access to the latest news, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

This article originally appeared on Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin: Newark Valley pays tribute to lost classmate at 2024 graduation