Dozens of Wantagh High School students were recognized for their vast accomplishments during the annual Senior Awards Ceremony on May 27. The evening program in the auditorium featured the presentation of numerous recognition awards and scholarships. 

Academic excellence, involvement in school activities, community service, strong character and perseverance in the face of adversity were among the many reasons that earned seniors an invite to the ceremony. 

“Each of these students has achieved something remarkable, making the Wantagh community very proud,” said Darlene Thompson, co-coordinator of the event along with Deanna Pepe. 

Principal Dr. Paul Guzzone commended the seniors for remaining committed to their goals and dreams while using their talents in ways that were both innovative and inspiring. He also thanked all of the donors and award sponsors for their continued support of the seniors, and generosity that makes awards night possible. 

Valedictorian Skylar Mondelli received the board of education’s Paideia Award for leadership, scholarship and service. Salutatorian Gabriel Avitable was presented with the Superintendent’s Excelsior Award for achievement and dedication. They also earned the President’s Award for Outstanding Educational Excellence while 16 additional seniors received the President’s Award for Outstanding Educational Achievement. 

Scholarships were presented by the Forest Lake, Mandalay and Wantagh elementary school PTAs, the 6-12 Association, PTA Council, SEPTA, Wantagh United Teachers, Wantagh Aides and Monitors and several community organizations. 

The inaugural Wantagh Warrior 9/11 Memorial Scholarship was given out. The Gary Sinise Foundation, which was the gold star sponsor of the 5K race, awarded scholarships to Morgan Masterson, Matthew Riley and Julianna Tsempelis. The 6-12 Association, a silver star sponsor, gave scholarships to Emma Burns and Liza Wasnieski.

Awards night concluded with the presentation of several scholarships in honor of former Wantagh students, staff and community members. Max Naglieri received the William D. Desroches Memorial Scholarship, named for a student in the Class of 2025 who tragically died while on vacation before his junior year. Isabella Kugal and Stephen Albano were presented with the Kathleen J. Cahill Memorial Scholarship named in memory of the beloved former science department chairwoman.