Back in the school district where it all began, five Binghamton City School District alumni were honored Thursday evening as Distinguished Graduates. David Cody (BNHS '70), Judge Eugene Faughnan (BHS '83), Marcus Hennekens (BHS '07), Steven Nanni (BHS '99), and Mayor Katie Wilson (BHS '00) were inducted at the 32nd annual Distinguished Graduates Dinner. The annual event recognizes the achievements and contributions of Binghamton graduates who have excelled in their career fields. A CEO.
A reception in the newly renovated Helen Foley Theatre lobby began the evening as honorees and guests sampled hors d'oeuvres served by Binghamton High School Culinary Arts students. Musical selections were performed by BHS orchestra students Julia Otero and Cecilia Walsh. Dinner was served in the high school cafeteria-turned-elegant banquet hall. Following an opening performance from the Binghamton High School Davidge Choir, attendees dined on a gourmet meal prepared by Chef Thomas Dello; BHS culinary arts students assisted with catering and served guests their food and beverages.
Student host Olivia McKan (BHS ‘27) led the program and introduced five of her classmates who welcomed back each Distinguished Graduate. Adrienne Mitrus (BHS '28) provided an introduction for Cody, who has coached more than 100 seasons of cross country, indoor, and outdoor track & field for Binghamton. Michael Macharia shared a welcome for Hennekens, a NASA engineer who was a lead on the Artemis II lunar mission. Jordan Prince (BHS '27) detailed the achievements of Judge Faughnan, who started his career as an attorney before ultimately being elected as a NYS Supreme Court Justice. Mary Keenan (BHS '27) introduced Steven Nanni, a decorated singer and stage performer. To end the recognition of Distinguished Graduates, Caroline Clarke (BHS '27) shared Wilson's journey to becoming the 58th Mayor of Seattle, WA.
During their remarks, each honoree discussed how their time as Binghamton students shaped them and ultimately made it possible for them to get where they are today. Cody shared that the athletes that join his teams each year are the reason he hasn't retired yet. Hennekens recollected on the importance of BHS's Project Lead the Way pre-engineering academy to his decision to become an engineer. Faughnan talked about teachers and coaches who instilled the important values he uses each day as a judge. Nanni told guests how it was the BCSD music program, which wasn't offered at a private school he attended before transferring to Binghamton as an elementary student, inspired his dream to become a performer. Wilson, who was unable to travel to Binghamton for the event, shared in a video message how things she learned at Binghamton pushed her to a career in public service.
Remarks from Superintendent of Schools Dr. Tonia Thompson and a final singing performance by McKan concluded the evening, both of which shared messages about the importance of never forgetting where you came from and those who helped you along the way.