Hali Ponce

Taking part of the senior experience, senior Sophia Tripi adds her handprint to the wall. Part of the graduating class, Tripi takes part in a 24-year-old tradition. “My favorite part was just seeing my friends and everyone being excited as we’re seniors now,” she said.

As seniors get ready to leave the nest, they take one of their first symbolic steps by adding their handprints to the senior wall.

“Handprints represent the class legacy because it shows how much people grow and how much we’ve grown. It resembles our class and it shows how much hard work you put in. I was glad I put it up there,” senior Gabriela DiCosmo said.

Together the graduating class of 2026, on Oct. 20, stuck their handprints to the wall in the commons. 

“I think it’s important for each senior to leave their mark on the building. The evidence that they were here. That they were a part of making Eisenhower as great as it is. Putting your hand on the wall is a commitment to finishing this adventure,” student council advisor Amber Bronson said. 

For 24 years, seniors take part in this tradition and though not every handprint stays visible, each senior leaves a mark on the school. Together, the handprints create a mural that represents the graduating class and leaves space for future students to continue the tradition.

“I saw my older friends do it last year and it really shows how much I’ve grown and how much I’ve tried,” DiCosmo said. “It just makes me feel good knowing my hand is up there.”