After four years of high school, and nine years longer since that first step into kindergarten, Cranston High School East graduates walked the stage last week.

Cranston East presented its 130^th graduating class Saturday afternoon in the Ryan Center at the University of Rhode Island. The ceremony included remarks from city officials as well as the valedictorian, salutatorian and class presidents.

Mayor Kenneth Hopkins praised the class for its determination and willingness to work hard to get to this special day.

“No matter which path you choose, remember this, you have the power to shape your own destiny,” Hopkins said.

Hopkins emphasized the importance of giving back and encouraged the graduates to use their skills and knowledge to make a difference in their communities.

Schools Superintendent Jeanine Nota-Masse congratulated a class of more than 200 students, celebrating the students’ hard work and the collective efforts of the Cranston East community to help get the graduating class to graduation day.

“It marks the culmination of many years of schooling, beginning when some of you were as young as 4,” Nota-Masse said of the importance of graduation day for each student and their family and friends.

Principal Thomas Barbieri presented the 2025 Thunderbolt of the Year award to graduating senior Liam De Rosa. Awarded to a student who represents the values and spirit of Cranston East, this honor is a surprise to the recipient each year.

The inaugural Thunderbolt Award was presented in 2023.