New Trier High School Class of 2026 Commencement

The 126th annual commencement of the New Trier Township High School Class of 2026 was held on Sunday, May 31, at 3 p.m. at the NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates. In line with Trevian tradition, the 902 graduates donned white and black formal attire or white gowns. Many graduates added a touch of color with handheld long-stemmed red roses.

As the ceremony commenced, Campbell Bach from Wilmette carried the American flag, honoring the nation. “I get to represent our country,” Bach remarked on the privilege of holding the flag.

Peter Tragos, the superintendent of New Trier Township High School District 203 since July 2025, took the podium. “This commencement may feel like an end, but I can assure you, it’s just the beginning of many great things to come,” Tragos stated.

The commencement speaker, Blake O’Donnell from Kenilworth, shared inspiring words with the graduates. “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,” O’Donnell said.

Alumni speaker Shams Charania, a 2012 graduate, offered insights from his career as a professional basketball reporter.

Students Cooper Cohen and Lily Dale, both from Glencoe, spoke about their class service project with North Chicago Community Partners. This project emphasized the community spirit of the graduating class.

Among the graduates were Morgan Zibell from Winnetka, Rachel Elli from Wilmette, Lexi Circ from Kenilworth, and Mia Ascione from Wilmette, all carrying long-stemmed red roses and dressed in white. They reflected positively on their experiences at New Trier Township High School.

“I’m sad but also excited for the next chapter,” Ascione expressed, ready for college. “I feel very prepared.” Circ echoed these sentiments, praising their education. Zibell added, “If anyone asked where you went and you said, ‘New Trier,’ it’s like an honor. It means everything.”