South Huntington board creates Diana Cinquamani Fritze Impact Award; seven students honored across district

Board of Education member Erin Meyer introduced the Diana Cinquamani Fritze Impact Award — a new district recognition named for a South Huntington graduate and educator — and seven students from across the district received the inaugural honors for “leaving a little sparkle” in their school communities.

Meyer said the award recognizes students nominated by teachers, paraprofessionals, administrators, coaches, nurses or support staff who “are creating an exceptionally positive impact on our school community, making it a better place because of their presence.” She described Diana Cinquamani Fritze as “a beloved South Huntington graduate and educator” and said the award aims to continue her legacy of kindness and generosity.

The board presented the award to seven students representing multiple buildings; presenters read short nominations describing each student's contributions:

- Beckett Loomis, Walt Whitman High School: honored for campus beautification projects, work on the school’s recording studio and stewardship of the school's meditation and memorial pond.

- Meghan Gullickson, Stimson Middle School: recognized for substantial volunteer service, work toward a Girl Scout Silver Award project and peer support with life‑skills students.

- Jonah Becker, Silas Wood Sixth Grade Center: cited for daily acts of kindness, leadership and empathy that create a welcoming school environment.

- Cristal (Cristelle) Hidalgo Martinez, Maplewood Intermediate: commended for a positive attitude, support of peers and determination in speech class work.

- Madison (Maddie) Enzirillo, Birchwood Intermediate: recognized for consistent kindness, involvement with student newspaper and efforts to include peers.

- Owen Lamont, Oakwood Primary Center: honored for quiet leadership, empathy and volunteerism (presenters noted his involvement with Make‑A‑Wish events).

- Josie Snyder, Countrywood: singled out for classroom contributions, steady smiles and student‑council participation that foster school spirit.

Meyer told the board each recipient will receive a certificate and that school buildings will display plaques with the students' names. She asked recipients to remain at the dais after the ceremony for a group photograph with Diana Fritze’s family and the Board of Education. Board President and other members thanked Meyer and the family for creating a district‑wide recognition and for the work of nominators and presenters.

Presenters and the family described the award as the district’s only cross‑building recognition and said they hoped it would become an annual honor.