Usually, photos are taken of the guest speaker at Commencement ceremonies. But Michael Scotto – senior partner of the Fourth Avenue Group who has served for many years as the photographer for St. Rose High School, Belmar – turned the tables on the graduates, snapping one final class photo May 29, their graduation night in Monmouth University, West Long Branch.
PHOTO GALLERY: St. Rose Baccalaureate Mass
PHOTO GALLERY: St. Rose Graduation
“Thank you for letting me take your photos the last four years. If I missed any of you, I want to fix that right now. Can we pose for one more picture?” Scotto, whose wife and three children graduated from SRHS, shared his deep affection for the school community in his address.
“What I see through my lens is joy, happiness, friendship and an amazing school spirit.”
Milan Hawkins and Owen Mehring present Msgr. Edward Arnister with the offertory gifts during their Baccalaureate Mass in St. Rose Church, Belmar. John Batkowski photo
That joy and happiness were once again evident as members of the Class of 2025 crossed the stage to receive their awards and diplomas.
The school community gathered with their families and St. Rose pastor Msgr. Edward Arnister May 22 in St. Rose Church for the Baccalaureate Mass.
Father John Paul Del Rosario, St. Rose parochial vicar and school chaplain, was the homilist. “As you prepare to leave St. Rose High School, put into practice the lessons your teachers and your mentors have so patiently imparted upon you,” he said.
While at St. Rose the Class of 2025 earned nearly $24 million in scholarships, 17 student-athletes from the class committed to continuing their athletic careers at the collegiate level.
Another notable statistic is the number of legacy students – graduates whose family members also attended St. Rose.
“Over 50% of our graduates are part of a proud legacy family, continuing the rich tradition of St. Rose through generations of faith, excellence, and community,” said Michelle Dries, a member of the school’s marketing team.
That family connection was meaningful to parents, both those from legacy families and those who chose St. Rose for the first time.
“It’s a nurturing, tight-knit community,” said Kristen Thompson, whose daughter Emilia graduated this year. “It was a wonderful experience for her.”
Sarah Wilton, herself an alumna, chose St. Rose for her daughter Hope because of the school’s family atmosphere and strong Catholic values.
“Catholic education is important, and that’s why we chose St. Rose. It’s more than a high school – it’s a community of faith.”
Monitor June 2025 Graduation: Led by Faith
Graduation 2025 in the Diocese