The 126th annual commencement ceremony for New Trier Township High School’s Class of 2026 was held at the NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates on Sunday, May 31 at 3 p.m. Continuing a long-standing tradition, 902 graduates dressed in white and black formal attire or white gowns for the event. Many wore white or ivory dresses complemented by long-stemmed red roses, creating a striking visual.
As the ceremony commenced, Campbell Bach from Wilmette had the honor of presenting the American flag. Bach shared, “I get to represent our country.” Superintendent Peter Tragos, leading the New Trier Township High School District 203 since July 2025, encouraged graduates by saying, “This commencement may feel like an end, but I can assure you, it’s just the beginning of many great things to come.”
Blake O’Donnell from Kenilworth served as the commencement speaker. O’Donnell remarked, “While we are leaving here with diplomas, we are also taking with us the stamina of a class that has already proven that it can go the distance.”
Alumnus speaker Shams Charania, a Class of 2012 graduate and professional basketball reporter, also addressed the graduates. Students Cooper Cohen and Lily Dale from Glencoe spoke about a class service project with North Chicago Community Partners, highlighting community engagement as a key high school experience.
Among the graduates, Morgan Zibell of Winnetka, Rachel Elli of Wilmette, Lexi Circ of Kenilworth, and Mia Ascione of Wilmette, showcased their red roses while reflecting on their time at New Trier. Ascione expressed mixed emotions, stating, “I’m sad but I’m also really excited for the next chapter. I feel very prepared for college.” Circ commented on the quality of education, saying, “It was very good.”
Zibell shared a sentiment many Trevians hold: “If anyone asked where you went and you said, ‘New Trier,’ it’s like an honor. It means everything.”
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