Ryan Nobles, an alumnus of Cassadaga Valley Central School and an NBC News Correspondent, spoke at the commencement ceremony for CVCS. He is pictured in front of the school with his family.

SINCLAIRVILLE – One of the greatest measures of a school is not only the success of its graduates, but the willingness of those graduates to return home and inspire the next generation.

On Friday, June 26, the Cassadaga Valley Central School District was privileged to welcome back two exceptional Cougar alumni as guest speakers for our 2026 Commencement Ceremony — Ryan Nobles, Class of 1993, and Derek Houser, Class of 2001.

As NBC News’ Chief Capitol Hill Correspondent, Ryan Nobles has built an extraordinary career at the highest levels of broadcast journalism. Reporting daily from Washington, D.C., he appears across NBC Nightly News, TODAY, NBC News NOW, and Meet the Press NOW, covering the nation’s most significant political events and breaking news.

Before joining NBC News, Nobles spent eight years as a Congressional Correspondent for CNN, where he led coverage of the January 6 Select Committee, presidential campaigns, and historic events shaping our nation.

Throughout his distinguished career, Nobles has traveled internationally with Congressional delegations, interviewed world leaders — including three sit-down interviews with President Barack Obama — and earned Emmy nominations, two regional Emmy Awards, and an Edward R. Murrow Award for excellence in journalism.

From Western New York to the halls of Congress, Noble’s journey is a remarkable testament to where hard work, curiosity, and determination can lead.

Joining him was fellow Cougar alumnus Derek Houser, Salutatorian of the Class of 2001. Derek has dedicated his career to education as a Social Studies teacher at a neighboring district, where he has inspired students for nearly two decades. In addition to his work in the classroom, he has served as a class advisor and has coached the varsity girls soccer team since 2009, leading the program to sectional championships in both 2020 and 2023. His unwavering commitment to education, leadership, and student success embodies the very best of the teaching profession.

The Class of 2026 had the unique opportunity to hear from two graduates whose careers have taken different paths but are united by a common foundation: the values, perseverance, and sense of community that define Cassadaga Valley.

“We extend our sincere gratitude to Ryan and Derek for returning to where their own journeys began and for sharing their wisdom, experiences, and encouragement with our newest graduates,” CVCS school officials stated. “Congratulations once again to the Cassadaga Valley Class of 2026. The future is bright, and the Cougar legacy continues.”