The Peru Gazette

Saranac, NY, June 17, 2026 – Senator Dan Stec (R,C-Queensbury) yesterday joined the Saranac High School community in honoring graduating senior Sebastian Prial with a special commencement ceremony. Prial joined the United States Navy as a midshipman and his arrival at Annapolis, MD coincides with his school’s commencement date. Saranac school officials and his fellow graduates put together a special ceremony in his honor, so Prial could still partake in this milestone achievement in a young person’s life.

            Stec, a Naval officer himself who served in the first Gulf War, was a surprise speaker at the event. He appreciated having the opportunity to join the community in congratulating Prial for his accomplishment and highlighting his post-high school commitment to serving our nation.

            “It was a privilege to speak at Sebastian’s graduation ceremony and celebrate his academic achievement and decision to serve our nation in the Navy,” said Stec. “As a Naval Veteran, I know firsthand the commitment it takes to make that decision and I appreciated having the opportunity to personally congratulate him for that choice.

“It was a special afternoon and seeing Sebastian’s school community come together to ensure he received the special graduation ceremony all our students deserve was a fantastic moment. I’m so glad to have been a part of it,” he added.