BKHS Student Wins AFS Photo Contest

Stephanie Ossorio was one of 12 award winners in Astoria Federal Savings’ annual Teen Photo Contest for her creative photo representing this year’s theme, “People in Action.” Ossorio, center, accepted her award and a check for $250 from Irene Ferrall, left, Astoria Federal’s director of marketing communications. Ossorio’s teacher, Sister Mary Pat Hurley, right, from Bishop Kearney, also received a $100 grant

Stephanie Ossorio has an eye for photography and that has won her $250 in Astoria Federal Savings’ annual Teen Photo Contest. Ossorio, who attends Bishop Kearney H.S., Bensonhurst, is one of 12 award winners recognized for their original photographs based on the theme, “People in Action.”

Astoria Federal hosted a reception at their Corporate Headquarters in Lake Success on June 5 for all the winners, their families and teachers.

Earlier this year, Astoria Federal announced the contest and asked students, ages 13 to 19, to use their cameras and their creative eyes to capture people of all ages doing interesting physical or creative activities.

Participants were encouraged to think about the many ways people are in action, such as dancing, painting, playing sports or while at work.

“We’re always finding ways to stay involved in the many communities we serve and we’re committed to supporting education at every age level. This contest is a great way for young adults in our neighborhoods to express themselves in a creative way,” said Brian Edwards, senior vice president and director of marketing.

Twelve winning photos were selected based on their composition, clarity, and originality in depicting the “People in Action” theme. Photographers each received a $250 cash prize and each photographer’s teacher won a $100 grant for his or her classroom use.

Joining Ossorio in the winners’ circle were: Anton Alenychev from Forest Hills H.S. in Forest Hills; Tara Byrne from Eastchester H.S. in Scarsdale; Monica Chulewicz from MacArthur H.S. in Levittown; Nicole DeMeo from Elwood-John Glenn H.S. in Elwood; Li Gao from Earl Vandermeulen H.S. in Port Jefferson; Eric Kunz from Hicksville H.S. in Hicksville; Erin McCabe from Glen Cove H.S. in Glen Cove; Tia Sergio from Smithtown Christian School in Smithtown; Christine Tabag from Division Avenue H.S. in Levittown, and Samantha Smith and Kristen Waslufsky from Bay Shore H.S. in Bay Shore.

Lay Leadership Ushers in New Era for La Salle Academy

This year will bring in a new era at La Salle Academy on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. For the first time in its 160-year history, the all-boys high school will be led by lay people.

Dr. Hambleton

Dr. William Hambleton was named the new president of La Salle on July 1.

Dr. Hambleton has served in various administrative and teaching positions at Catholic elementary, secondary, and post-secondary educational institutions. He holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy, a master’s in theology, and a doctorate in education administration with emphasis on Catholic leadership.

According to the Board of Trustees, it was important for La Salle to find a leader such as Dr. Hambleton, who is committed to faith-based education and will bring vigor and vitality to the high school.

Upon news of his recent hiring and excitement for the new challenge, Dr. Hambleton gave a brief statement on his plans for La Salle, “I hope to create an awareness in the New York City area that La Salle is a school of first choice.”

Hammonds

Joining Dr. Hambleton’s administration is Candace D. Hammonds, La Salle’s first female principal. She is currently the assistant principal and has served La Salle in different capacities for the past nine years. The school has a special place in her heart because her great-grandfather is a graduate.

Hammonds holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, a master’s in school counseling and a master’s in administration and supervision.

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