Collucci grateful to be homecoming queen

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For Lilianna Collucci, the best part of being Boonton High School’s homecoming queen wasn’t all about glamour or wearing the coveted crown.

Of course, Collucci, whose prestigious honor was announced at halftime of the football game against Indian Hills on Oct. 9, instead relished other aspects of becoming BHS royalty.

“Being chosen as homecoming queen was such a surreal feeling and I don’t think I will ever forget that moment,” Collucci said. “I was a little surprised because I wasn’t expecting it, so finding out made it extra special. I felt so happy and grateful to know that I had so much support from the people around me.

“It’s not just about the crown and sparkly dress, but about the memories, the people, and getting to share such an important memory with my friends and community. I feel so lucky to have been chosen and I will always be grateful.”

Collucci, who is very involved in school and community activities, enjoyed all aspects of the 2026 homecoming weekend. At Friday night’s tailgate, she represented cheerleading and GSA. The cheer squad’s theme was sailors, which earned the group best overall honors.

GSA’s theme was movie night and that table featured candy, popcorn and games. After cheering for the football Bombers in the first half, Collucci changed into her dress for the announcement of the king, queen and court.

“It was really cool to see the alumni that attended the game,” she said. “I was able to meet some of them and talk about their own experiences at BHS. The game was great. The cheerleaders and fans were ecstatic over the team’s win, which put their record at 6-1. The day after was the dance. It was a blast. Mrs. Sinatra and the committee did a great job putting it all together. The weekend was super special and I will always remember it.”

Being homecoming queen was another accolade in Collucci’s high school years. She is the captain of cheerleading and the GSA overall for Black Team. In addition, she is involved in FBLA, NHS, and the Leadership Committee. Outside of school, she has served as a volunteer Lincoln Park Raiders Cheerleading Coach for the past four years.

Her future is just as bright. After graduating from BHS, Collucci plans to attend a four-year college and major in marketing. Valdet Ahmetaj was named the senior king.

Junior princes were John Howell and Jeffrey Schmucker while the junior princesses were Addison Kelly and McKayla Williams.

The sophomore class was represented by duchess Carly Sibi and duke Noah Olsen. The freshman maid was Adrina Leone and the freshman Squire was Mason Lopez.

The Bombers capped off the night with a 27-17 victory over Indian Hills which was highlighted by Josiah Chaplain’s three touchdowns and 217-yard rushing effort.

Boonton improved to 6-1 with the win.