For their achievements in academics, dedication to extracurricular activities, service to the community and ability to overcome challenges, dozens of soon-to-be graduates at Wantagh High School were recognized at the annual Senior Awards Ceremony on May 28. It was one of many celebratory activities for the Class of 2026 that will culminate in graduation.

In an auditorium packed with board of education trustees, administrators, teachers, students and their proud family members, awards and scholarships were presented in more than 60 different categories. The Board of Education Paideia Award for leadership, scholarship and service went to valedictorian Victoria Ferraro, and the Superintendent’s Excelsior Award for achievement and dedication was presented to salutatorian Ethan Chen. They were also the recipients of the President’s Award for Outstanding Educational Excellence, and 16 seniors earned the President’s Award for Outstanding Educational Achievement.

Danny Donahue was presented with the Board of Education Appreciation Award for serving as one of the student liaisons at school board meetings for the past two years. Rose Fioribello and Joseph Grasso were the recipients of the Assistant Principal awards. Madison Rodriguez earned the New York State Comptroller’s Student Achievement Award and Brendan O’Callaghan and Sophia Zanelotti were recognized with the New York State Attorney General’s “Triple C” Award for character, courage and commitment.

Scholarships were presented by the school PTA units, Wantagh United Teachers and Wantagh United Retirees, and local businesses and organizations. There were also several memorial scholarships in memory of former students, teachers and community members.

The Wantagh Warrior Memorial Scholarship, totaling $3,500, was presented by the Gary Sinise Foundation, 6-12 Association and Orlin & Cohen Sports Medicine. This year’s recipients were Claudia Donofrio, Victoria Ferraro, Olivia Magoloff, Joseph Nicholson, Emma Palmisano, MaKenna Scarry and Faith Stallone.

Senior Awards night was coordinated by Deanne Pepe and Darlene Thompson. Ms. Pepe, in her opening remarks, noted that this year’s recipients “represent the very best of the Wantagh community.”