This year’s Sachem Hall of Honor induction class was recognized on June 6 at Sachem High School North.
This year’s induction class …
- Rick Ammirati (Class of 1982) – President, Prince Public Relations & President, Holbrook Chamber of Commerce
- Thomas Banks (Class of 1977) – Physician Assistant
- Richard Berger – Sachem administrator from 1955-1980, first principal of Sachem Junior High School and Sachem High School, retired as superintendent
- Christopher Giambrone (Class of 1992) – Law enforcement executive and community leader
- Kevin P. Knight, PFC (Class of 1969) – United States Army veteran who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in Vietnam on Feb. 8, 1971
- Dr. Justin John Moniz (Class of 2007) – Performer, educator and arts leader *Juli Schmidt (Class of 1996) – Commander, United States Navy (Retired)
- Hon. Douglas M. Smith (Class of 2008) – Proud Sachem parent, educator and state representative
- Erin Stephenson (Class of 2000) – Journalist, News 12
- Laurie A. Vollgraff-Harlin, CPA (Class of 1986) – Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President, Sportime Clubs, LLC
Rick Ammirati was raised in Holbrook and is a proud product of the Sachem Central School District. He attended Merrimac, Seneca and Sachem South before graduating from Sachem High School.
After studying at Suffolk County Community College, Rick began his professional career as manager of Friendly Drugs, an independent pharmacy located on Main Street in his hometown of Holbrook. In 1995, he became an owner of the business and remained there for 33 years. Under his leadership, Friendly Drugs became a trusted community institution, serving thousands of local residents with their prescription and healthcare needs.
One of Rick’s proudest accomplishments was Friendly Drugs’ participation in the Sachem Transition Program, which provided meaningful opportunities for students. The pharmacy also became a strong supporter of Sachem athletics, student organizations and community initiatives.
In 1997, Rick was elected vice president of the Holbrook Chamber of Commerce. Three years later, in January 2000, he became president, a position he continues to hold today, making him the chamber’s only president of the 21st century. Under his leadership, membership grew from just 35 businesses to nearly 200. He has helped secure hundreds of thousands of dollars in municipal funding for infrastructure improvements throughout the Holbrook business district and played a key role in obtaining $12 million in county and federal grants for sewer improvements along the Main Street and Union Avenue corridors, with construction expected to be completed by 2028.
Working alongside longtime Sachem resident and chamber vice president Kevin Guilfoyle, Rick successfully advocated for Suffolk County’s acquisition of the former Sachem administration building property on Union Avenue. Supported by federal, state and county funding, the site is being transformed into “Chamber Park,” an inclusive and accessible community space for children of all abilities, as well as seniors. Plans include walking trails, gardens and gathering areas, with completion anticipated in 2028. Fellow Sachem Hall of Honor inductee and New York State Assemblyman Douglas Smith also played an instrumental role in advancing both the sewer and park projects.
Beyond his community and business leadership, Rick has become a familiar face on national television. Since 2020, he has served as a co-host of “Live From Studio 6B,” a nightly primetime program on Real America’s Voice. Known affectionately as “Slick Rick” for his colorful wardrobe, he brings sports commentary, humor and personality to audiences nationwide.
Rick credits Sachem’s teachers, staff and fellow students for helping shape the person he has become. He often reflects on the education, creativity and confidence he gained during his years in the district. Being inducted into the Sachem Hall of Honor, he says, is “the single greatest professional recognition of my life.”
Thomas Banks has built a distinguished career spanning more than four decades as a cardiothoracic surgical physician assistant, educator, innovator and healthcare leader. Throughout his career, he has combined clinical excellence with leadership in education, healthcare administration and medical technology, helping shape advancements in cardiac surgery on Long Island and beyond.
Banks served as Assistant Director of Physician Assistant Services and supervisor of physician assistants in Cardiothoracic (CARDIO-THOR-ASIC) Surgery at Long Island Jewish Medical Center, where he oversaw staffing, education and clinical operations for a large team of advanced practice providers. His leadership extended to hiring, mentoring and training physician assistants, while contributing to institutional policy development and quality improvement initiatives.
A pioneer in his field, Banks developed the Radial Artery Harvesting Program and helped advance minimally invasive surgical techniques used in coronary artery bypass surgery. He performed more than 5,000 radial artery harvesting procedures and was the first practitioner on Long Island to perform the procedure endoscopically. He also developed the Endoscopic Vein Harvesting Program and became the first to harvest the saphenous vein endoscopically in New York State. His work helped establish endoscopic vein harvesting as the standard of care in cardiac bypass surgery, and he has trained physician assistants and surgeons across the country in the technique.
An accomplished author and presenter, Banks has published more than 10 peer-reviewed articles and lectured nationally on topics including atrial fibrillation, radial artery harvesting and the evolving role of physician assistants in cardiac surgery. His expertise earned him an appointment to the New York State Department of Health Cardiac Advisory Committee, where he helped develop guidelines for physician assistants serving as first assistants in open-heart surgery.
Beyond the operating room, Banks has served in leadership roles with national and state professional organizations, including the Association of Physician Assistants in Cardiovascular Surgery, the American Academy of Physician Assistants, and the New York State Society of Physician Assistants. He has also held executive positions in the medical device and healthcare technology industries, supporting innovations in cardiac surgery and arrhythmia management while earning top national sales honors.
Banks earned a Master of Science in Health Science from Long Island University and completed his surgical residency at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. He also served as an adjunct clinical instructor at Hofstra University and an adjunct assistant professor at Touro College, reflecting his lifelong commitment to education and mentorship. Throughout his career, he has received numerous honors recognizing his contributions to patient care, professional leadership and the physician assistant profession.
Richard A. Berger devoted his life to service, leadership, and education, helping shape the Sachem Central School District during its most formative years.
Born on March 1, 1917, in Sayville, Berger grew up on Long Island during a time of tremendous change. As a young man, he answered his nation’s call to service during World War II, serving in the United States Army in the European Theater of Operations. He was among the American soldiers who endured the harsh conditions of the Battle of the Bulge, one of the most significant and costly battles of the war. After more than seven months overseas, Berger returned home in the summer of 1945, carrying with him the resilience, discipline, and commitment that would define the rest of his life.
Following the war, Berger pursued a career in public education. His professional legacy became closely intertwined with the history of the Sachem, which was officially established in 1955. Berger joined the newly formed district almost immediately and was appointed principal of Sachem’s first junior high school.
As Sachem’s communities rapidly expanded during Long Island’s postwar population boom, Berger emerged as one of the district’s key educational leaders. He later served as principal of Sachem High School before rising to Superintendent of Schools.
During his tenure, Sachem experienced unprecedented growth. Of course, as we know, by the late 1970s, Sachem had become one of the largest school districts on Long Island, serving more than 14,000 students at one point.
Berger retired as Superintendent of Schools in 1978 after a career that spanned virtually the entire first 25 years of the district’s history. His leadership helped guide Sachem through a period of extraordinary expansion while maintaining a steadfast commitment to educational excellence and community engagement.
After retirement, Berger relocated to Virginia, where he spent his later years. He passed away on November 30, 2001, at the age of 83.
For his extraordinary contributions to public education and his enduring role in the development of the Sachem Central School District, Richard A. Berger is proudly inducted into the Sachem Hall of Honor.
Christopher Giambrone has dedicated his life to public service, leadership, and community involvement through an accomplished career in law enforcement and emergency services.
He currently serves as a Deputy Inspector with the New York City Police Department, overseeing three commands. As a patrol officer assigned to South Jamaica, Queens, Christopher responded to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and spent months participating in the rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero. Throughout his distinguished NYPD career, he has risen steadily through the ranks while leading and participating in numerous life-saving operations, including rescue and recovery efforts during Hurricane Sandy. He has successfully commanded both investigative and operational units and is widely respected for his leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to public safety.
In addition to his law enforcement career, Christopher is a commissioned officer in the New York State military, where he serves as a Second Lieutenant, leading, mentoring, and developing the soldiers under his command. His commitment to service extends beyond his professional responsibilities. He serves as a Disaster Action Team member with the American Red Cross, responding to emergencies and disasters throughout the region, and is an active member of a Suffolk County Community Emergency Response Team focused on emergency preparedness and community resilience.
Christopher has also volunteered extensively throughout his life, including service with the Salvation Army feeding those in need and more than a decade as a firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician with the Holbrook Fire Department.
A passionate advocate for civic engagement, Christopher remains actively involved in numerous community, fraternal, and charitable organizations. He believes true leadership is measured not only by professional achievement, but by service to others and the ability to positively impact a community. Throughout his career, he has mentored countless young officers and emerging leaders, striving to be a positive role model both within his profession and across the Sachem community.
Christopher credits Sachem with helping lay the foundation for his leadership journey. As a student, he served as president of several clubs, competed on the wrestling team, and was inducted into the National Honor Society. Those experiences instilled the values of discipline, teamwork, and service that continue to guide him today.
He holds a Bachelor’s degree from the State University of New York at Albany and is a graduate of the prestigious FBI National Academy.
Kevin Peter Knight served his country with honor during the Vietnam War, making the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. A member of the United States Army, he began his tour of service in Vietnam on May 10, 1970.
Private First Class Knight was assigned to the 61st Aviation Company, 268th Aviation Battalion, 17th Aviation Group, 1st Aviation Brigade. Born on December 4, 1951, he called Farmingville, New York, home.
On February 8, 1971, while serving in South Vietnam, Pfc. Knight lost his life following a vehicle crash. Military records classify the incident as a ground casualty.
For his service and sacrifice, Pfc. Knight was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Army Presidential Unit Citation, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross.
Though his life was cut tragically short at just 19 years old, Kevin Peter Knight’s service and sacrifice remain a lasting testament to his courage, duty, and commitment to his country.
Dr. Justin John Moniz is an internationally recognized educator, performer, researcher, and arts leader whose impact on vocal performance and pedagogy has earned him distinction throughout the United States and worldwide. He was named the 2025 Ellen Faull Master Teacher by the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS), one of the profession’s highest honors.
Dr. Moniz serves as Associate Director of Vocal Performance, Coordinator of Vocal Pedagogy (PETA – GO- GEE), and Music Associate Professor at New York University’s Steinhardt School. There, he leads one of the nation’s premier graduate vocal programs, mentors future voice teachers and performers, and directs the award-winning NYU Pop/Rock Ensemble. In recognition of his exceptional commitment to students, he received NYU’s 2024-25 Steinhardt Teaching Excellence Award.
A respected scholar and author, Dr. Moniz serves as Associate Editor of the Journal of Singing and has presented research internationally in cities including Paris, Tokyo, Athens, Istanbul, and Barcelona. He is also the founder of the NYU Vocal Pedagogy Outreach Program, which has provided educational opportunities to more than 2,000 students in underserved communities across the United States and abroad.
His influence is reflected in the success of his students, many of whom perform on Broadway, in national tours, and with major opera companies throughout the country. His former students and graduates now serve as educators and leaders at institutions nationwide.
As a performer, Dr. Moniz is a three-time winner of The American Prize in Vocal Performance. Praised for his vocal artistry and commanding stage presence, he has appeared with opera companies and orchestras across the United States and has performed more than 100 roles spanning opera, concert, and musical theater repertoire.
Beyond the classroom and stage, Dr. Moniz serves as Executive Director of the Hawaii Performing Arts Festival, where he has led significant organizational growth and expanded opportunities for young artists. He also serves as Artistic Director of the ArtsBridge Summer Contemporary Vocal Performance Program, helping prepare the next generation of performers for collegiate and professional success.
Dr. Moniz holds degrees from Florida State University, the University of Miami, and SUNY Potsdam. His many honors include recognition as a Yamaha Corporation 40 Under 40 Music Educator, a Musical America Top Professional of the Year, and distinguished alumni awards from each of his alma maters.
Through his achievements as an educator, performer, researcher, and arts administrator, Dr. Justin John Moniz has become a leading voice in the arts, inspiring students and audiences around the world while exemplifying the excellence and impact of a Sachem graduate.
Juli Schmidt is a retired United States Navy Commander, healthcare leader, and fitness professional whose career exemplifies leadership, service, and lifelong learning.
Over more than 25 years of military service, Juli held numerous leadership positions, including Commanding Officer of the Navy Operational Support Center on Long Island, where she led and mentored hundreds of sailors while overseeing critical operations and organizational readiness. Her distinguished military career was marked by a commitment to excellence, integrity, and service to others.
Following her retirement from the Navy, Juli transitioned into healthcare leadership with Northwell Health, continuing her dedication to improving the lives of others through service and innovation.
A graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Juli earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Oceanography while competing as a Division I varsity athlete in track and field and cross-country. She later earned a Master of Science in Management from the Naval Postgraduate School and completed Joint Professional Military Education through the U.S. Naval War College.
Continuing her pursuit of professional growth, she also completed graduate studies in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and most recently earned a graduate certificate from Stanford University in AI-Driven Leadership.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Juli is a nationally certified fitness professional and Pilates instructor who is passionate about helping others build confidence, resilience, and wellness through movement and healthy living.
Juli credits her experiences as a Sachem student-athlete, student leader, and active participant in school activities with helping shape the values of discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and service that guided her throughout her career. She said her induction into the Sachem Hall of Honor recognizes a lifetime of leadership, achievement, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on others.
Hon. Douglas M. Smith is a lifelong Long Island resident, dedicated public servant, and proud Sachem alumnus who has represented the 5th District in the New York State Assembly since 2018. His district includes communities throughout Brookhaven and Islip, where he has built a reputation as a strong advocate for families, taxpayers, and local communities.
A graduate of Sachem North and St. Joseph’s University, Doug earned a degree in Mathematics and Adolescent Education and is a New York State-certified mathematics teacher. Before his election to the Assembly, he spent seven years serving as Chief of Staff to Assemblyman Al Graf, where he helped resolve thousands of constituent issues and championed efforts to improve education, address the opioid epidemic, and strengthen protections for victims of domestic violence.
Raised by hardworking parents who instilled in him the values of education, service, and community involvement, Doug began working at a young age and developed a deep appreciation for giving back. Throughout his career, he has remained committed to helping others, whether through public service, teaching, mentoring local youth, or assisting residents in navigating government services.
In addition to his legislative work, Doug is a small-business owner and an active community leader. He has served with local chambers of commerce, civic associations, and community organizations throughout the region, always maintaining strong ties to the community that shaped him.
Doug and his wife, Elizabeth, reside in Holbrook, where they are raising their daughter, Sophie. His dedication to public service, community leadership, and Long Island’s future continues to reflect the values of service and excellence that define the Sachem community.
Fittingly, one of Doug’s most treasured honors dates back to his time as a Sachem student. At his sixth-grade moving-up ceremony in June 2002, he received the Herman W. Beebe Award for “Service and Dependability.” More than two decades later, that plaque still hangs in his office and remains his favorite award. It serves as a daily reminder of the values that have guided his life and career … service, dependability, and a commitment to never change who he is.
Erin Stephenson is an award-winning journalist and media executive whose career has been defined by a commitment to local storytelling, journalistic excellence, and public service.
As Executive Producer of Content for News 12 Long Island, Erin leads editorial strategy, content development, and newsroom operations for one of the region’s most trusted news organizations. She also played a key role in the launch of Newsday TV, helping establish it as an important source of local news and information for Long Islanders.
After Sachem, she earned a degree in broadcast journalism, with a minor in political science, from American University.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Erin is dedicated to advancing the field of journalism. She serves on the board of the Press Club of Long Island, a chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists, where she supports First Amendment freedoms, promotes ethical journalism, and helps provide professional development opportunities for media professionals.
Erin’s induction into the Sachem Hall of Honor recognizes her outstanding contributions to journalism, her leadership in local media, and her unwavering commitment to keeping communities informed through trusted, impactful storytelling.
Laurie A. Vollgraff-Harlin’s journey began in Sachem, where she attended district schools from kindergarten through high school graduation. During her time as a student, accounting and office administration courses sparked an interest in business and finance that would ultimately shape her career path.
After Sachem, Laurie earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Dowling College, completing her studies a semester early to begin her professional career. She started in public accounting at a small firm, where she gained valuable hands-on experience working closely with clients and developing a strong foundation in accounting, finance, and client service. While balancing the demands of the profession, she continued her education and earned her Certified Public Accountant license.
Throughout her career, Laurie steadily advanced through positions of increasing responsibility, building expertise as a leader, mentor, and manager. Her dedication and hard work eventually placed her on the partnership track at a public accounting firm, fulfilling a goal she had pursued since the start of her career.
At that same time, one of her clients, SPORTIME, was embarking on an ambitious growth strategy. Laurie worked closely with company leadership to develop business plans, create financial models, and secure financing to support expansion. Recognizing an opportunity to help build a growing organization from within, she joined SPORTIME in 1998.
Over the past nearly three decades, Laurie has played an integral role in the company’s growth and success. Today, she serves as Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President of SPORTIME Clubs, LLC, and holds a partnership interest in the company.
Laurie credits the education, encouragement, and opportunities she received at Sachem for helping establish the foundation of a distinguished career in business and finance.