Hundreds of supporters cheered while more than 70 honorees were celebrated at the 2023 Power List of Long Island on June 29 at The Heritage Club in Old Bethpage.
The individuals selected to the 20th annual Long Island Press Power List make Long Island the thriving and vibrant place it is to live, work, and play. Honorees networked and celebrated, as leaders from across the region united, ranging from finance to nonprofits, information technology to healthcare and law. People sat and strolled indoors and outdoors on a beautiful day, ate at round tables with red table clothes and photographs of honorees. They took photographs with Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and met as well as reconnected with each other.
“At Bethpage, we believe leadership is about enriching people’s lives,” said Linda Armyn, chief strategy officer at Bethpage Federal Credit Union. “We understand the responsibility we have to our members, employees, and the communities we serve; and we are proud to receive this award for our commitment “
The ultimate networking event celebrated extraordinary men and women from a broad spectrum of the business and nonprofit world who were recognized for their commitment, impact and influence on the Long Island community.
“It is a privilege to be in the company of these powerful changemakers celebrating their commitment to Long Island,” said Dr. Kimberly Cline, president of Long Island University. “Tonight, we gather to support, collaborate and together build a stronger community.”
The event was hosted by Schneps Media, publishers of Long Island Press, Dan’s Papers, Behind the Hedges and Noticia.
HONOREES HONOR ORGANIZATIONS
Those who were honored often took the opportunity to express gratitude for the recognition, but to honor others.
“It’s a great honor to be recognized by the Long Island Press. It’s a testament to the hard work of my business partner, our management team, and staff,” said Adam Mahoney, president and CEO of Network Outsource, an information outsourcing company in New Hyde Park. “While I truly appreciate the honor of the award, the chance to learn and connect with such an esteemed group is probably the most exciting part. “
Wayne Grossé, president and CEO of Bethpage Federal Credit Union, said the award recognizes individuals “making a positive impact to our region,” but also BCFU and other entities. “This award is a reflection of the efforts of our entire organization,” Grossé said.
Long Island’s large number of small businesses is one of its strengths, and some talked about the need to serve that community. Jason Lipiec, M&T Bank’s Long Island Regional President, said helping small companies is a key part of his bank’s mission.
“M&T’s enduring presence in Long Island is a testament to our unwavering support for fostering the growth of small businesses, generating employment opportunities, and uplifting the entire community,” he said. “This group of honorees is representative of the hardworking and dedicated individuals in the region, and I am honored to be among them.”
In addition to being the ultimate networking and joyful celebration, the event also supported an important cause. A hundred percent of the event’s raffle proceeds was donated to the Family & Children’s Association.
“We want to see Long Island safer, healthier and more prosperous,” Dr. Jeffrey L. Reynolds, president and CEO of the Family & Children’s Association, said after expressing his thanks for the support and spotlight on his group. “That’s what unites our community.”
UNION LABOR
Union leaders along with companies and nonprofits were recognized for their role as leaders and in supporting their members.
“It’s a great honor to be recognized by Long Island Press, along with so many other distinguished honorees,” said Daniel C. Levler, president of the Suffolk Association of Municipal Employees, representing 6,000 active members with more than 900 civil service titles and 4,000 retirees. “This recognition is more about the incredible essential services that thousands of our AME members perform every day for the residents of Suffolk County.”
Pat Guidice, business manager for IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) Local 1049 and chair of the IBEW Utility Council, said he appreciated being recognized among a group of “exceptional individuals.” And he noted it was a privilege to represent his 4,500 members.
“I take immense pride in being a dedicated member of the IBEW,” he said. “None of the impactful work and progress achieved thus far would have been possible without the unwavering support and dedication of our members.”
LEADERSHIP LESSONS
The celebration was a night to remember for all the honorees and supporters, as well as one where many sang the praises of fellow honorees.
Phil Boyle, president and CEO of Suffolk Regional OTB/Jake’s 58, said it was good to be among a group of “Power Listers” who “contribute to the betterment of Long Island in unique and substantive ways.”
And Christopher Chimeri, founding partner at Quatela Chimeri, a law firm with offices in Hauppauge and Garden City, said individuals’ and organizations both can make a difference in Long Island life.
“This event highlights the accomplishments of an esteemed group of individuals,” he said, “whose unwavering commitment and extraordinary contributions have left an indelible mark on the people of Long Island.”
Even honorees unable to attend found ways to be part of the evening. Michael Dowling, president and CEO of Northwell Health, in a video discussed the value of leadership to organizations and the region.
“These are leaders that make a difference in the community. That’s what leadership is all about, continuing to improve, continuing to raise the bar,” Dowling said. “All leaders, in my view, have two major roles. One is an internal role in your organization, to build the best possible organization you can. But we also have an external role. What should we be doing externally to create a better environment overall outside our organizations? All of us have a role to enhance the world we’re in.”
The honorees represent what makes Long Island tick. The Long Island Press and Schneps Media are proud to bring together these individuals to support one another, do business and build community.
NONPROFIT NEWS
While business and union leaders took much of the spotlight, nonprofits, a key part of Long Island’s economy and community, were singled out as well. Matthew Zebatto, as chief executive officer of Life’s WORC, oversees a staff of about 1,000 working in 45 homes, day programs and their Family Center for Achievement.
He said he was happy to be part of a group of leaders “influencing life on Long Island, making it a better place to live, work and play.”
Vicki Schneps, the president of Long Island Press parent company Schneps Media, founded Life’s WORC, he noted, as she “helped to create the model of care that took the special needs population from institutions and placed them in family-like homes in community-based settings.” Life’s WORC celebrated its 50th Anniversary in 2021 and is continuing to expand.
“For the first 50 years, we sought to ensure that the people in our homes were in a safe, structured, and nurturing environment,” Zebatto said. “In 2024, we will be expanding our mission by opening WORCFORCE, a 24,000 square foot building that will impart work skills and life lessons for the people we support.”
Dr. Isma Chaudhry, co-chair of the board of trustees the Islamic Center of Long Island in Westbury, described the night as a wonderful moment and opportunity for many involved in Long Island life to meet.
“The event is amazing. There is diversity, celebration of service, talent and humanity,” she said. “This is a great event and I’m blessed and honored to be amongst the honorees who have really made a difference in the lives of people they have touched and the community they’re servicing.”
She noted that the Islamic Center of Long Island serves both Muslims and the general population, “by fulfilling the social and community obligations that a Muslim is expected to do.”
The Center runs everything from a food pantry to providing blankets and jackets, back to school events for the larger community, as well as open houses, in addition to providing services to the Muslim community.
“That is part of the teaching of the Koran, that we have to stay engaged, involved and service not just the Muslim community, but the entire community,” she said.
FAITH IN THE FUTURE
Bishop Darryl Hill, pastor at The Power House Church, said recognition for doing the right thing is doubly welcome.
“It is certainly humbling and honorable at the same time. Being recognized for doing what you’re called by God to do is rewarding in itself,” he said. “It is a double honor for others to see your efforts and choose to highlight them.”
Bishop Hill said his church has been working in the community and partnering with other organizations. Thanks to parishioners, volunteers and partners, he said they have been able to develop and assist underserved families on Long Island.
“We host community health fairs, youth activities, food drives, giveaways, holiday events, job fairs, free concerts,” he said. “And we have become a staple in the community where people can come to be with various needs.”
FINANCING THE FUTURE
Daniel Shaughnessy, Melville-based practice leader for Wilmington Trust Private Wealth Management, M&T Bank’s private wealth management arm, thanked organizers.
“I’m incredibly honored and proud to be among these great leaders in the Long Island business community,” he said. “I’m appreciative of Schneps Media and the Long Island Press for what they do for the community.”
He said many organizations work to “support the Long Island community” and noted that Wilmington Trust, as part of M&T Bank, is committed to “giving back to the community,” supporting business owners in tax mitigation, exit planning and investment management.
Christopher Chimeri said his law firm tries to help clients facing difficulty, providing support when things get tough. “Through powerful advocacy, we strive to improve the lives of our clients and their families during their most difficult and stressful times,” he said.
Mark Stempel, CEO and founding partner of Blue Island Homes, said he loves everything about Long Island. And Robert McBride, CEO of McBride Consulting and Business Development Group, said his company had become involved in projects ranging from healthcare to off-shore wind.
LOOKING FORWARD
Adam Mahoney, president and CEO of Network Outsource, an IT outsourcing company, noted the role his business played during the pandemic.
“During Covid, we were the computer guys that everybody called. We work for nonprofits, school districts, companies,” he said.
While the pandemic may have abated, he said his company remains engaged in protecting companies from different threats.
“The risk environment around cyber security has grown exponentially for our clients just in the last few years,” he said. “While in the past large corporations were the biggest targets, we have learned that no organization is below the radar of bad actors and potential compromise.”
Some at the event talked about enjoying their jobs, getting pleasure while they make a difference for others.
“I wear several different hats and have a lot of fun doing it,” said Chris Vaccaro, a professor at Hofstra University also involved with the Suffolk Sports Hall of Fame and Italian American Baseball Foundation.
While the ceremonies focused on what had been done, Kimberly Cline said it’s important also to focus on what follows.
“As a leader in higher education, my sights are always set on the future, building an environment that prepares students for what comes next,” she said.
Dr. Cline referred to Long Island University’s “cutting-edge partnerships and exciting educational programs,” including its College of Veterinary Medicine, which she described as one of only four in the Northeast.
Jennifer Cona, founder and managing partner at Cona Elder Law, said the Power List designation can help honorees advance causes.
“As a leader on Long Island, my responsibility is to use my position to advocate and communicate what is needed to support older adults on Long Island and throughout New York State,” she said. “Being recognized in the Long Island Press Power List is important to me as it allows me to increase my reach and build upon my passion to improve the quality of care for older adults, ensure access to care for people of all asset levels, and provide the education necessary to the public and the business community so that innovative programs are continually created to better support our aging population.”
Eric Alexander, Director, Founder, Vision Long Island, LI Main Street Alliance
Stuart B. Almer, President & CEO, Gurwin Healthcare System
Linda Armyn, Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer, Bethpage Federal Credit Union
Charles Barragato, Office Managing Partner, Melville, BDO
Stanley Bergman, Chairman of the Board & CEO, Henry Schein, Inc.
Hon. Bruce Blakeman, Nassau County Executive
Dr. Scott Blyer, Cosmetic Surgeon, Cameo Surgery Center
Phil Boyle, President & CEO, Suffolk Regional OTB
Isma H.Chaudhry, MD, MPH, President, Islamic Center of Long Island
Christopher J. Chimeri, Esq., Founding Partner, Quatela Chimeri, PLLC
Dr. Kimberly Cline, President, Long Island University
Matt Cohen, President & CEO, Long Island Association
Jennifer B. Cona, Esq., Founder & Managing Partner, Cona Elder Law, PLLC
Dr. Maria P. Conzatti, President, Nassau Community College
Peter Dalaker, President, A.M.C. Enterprises LLC
Gyssel Danzine, Executive Director & CEO, Boys & Girls Elite Club
Michael Dowling, President & CEO, Northwell Health
John Durso, President, Local 338, LI Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO
Charles Evdos, Executive Director, RISE Life Services
Michael Faltischek, Founding Partner, Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, PC
Ronald Fatoullah, Principal & Founder, Ronald Fatolluah & Associates
Howard Fensterman, Managing Partner & Co-Founder, Abrams Fensterman LLP
Nick Fitterman, MD, Executive Director, Northwell Health-Huntington Hospital
Henry C. “Hank” Foley Ph.D., President, New York Institute of Technology
Jennifer Garvey, Head of Market Strategy, NY, Ørsted
Erik Gershwind, President & CEOMSC, Industrial Supply Co.
Carol Gomes, MS, Chief Executive Officer & Chief Operating Officer, Stony Brook University Hospital
Louis Grassi, CPA, CEO, Managing Partner, Grassi Advisors & Accountants
Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg, Cosmetic Plastic Surgeon, Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology
Wayne N. Grossé, President & Chief Executive Officer, Bethpage Federal Credit Union
Pat Guidice, Business Manager, IBEW Local 1049 & Chair of IBEW Utility Council, IBEW Local 1049
Katherine Heaviside, President, Epoch 5 Public Relations
Marc Herbst, Executive Director, Long Island Contractors’ Association
Bishop Darryl L. Hill, Pastor, The Power House Church
Jennie Katz, President, Founding Partner, Blue Island Homes
Evan H. Krinick, Managing Partner, Rivkin Radler LLP
Hon. Josh Lafazan, Nassau County Legislator, District 18
Charles D. Lavine, 13th District, Nassau County, NYS Assemblymember
Nicholas Lazzaruolo, Office Managing Partner, Melville, Grant Thornton LLP
Daniel C. Levler, President, Suffolk AME
Gary Lewi, Managing Director, Rubenstein Strategic Communications
Seymour Liebman, Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel, Canon U.S.A.
Jason Lipiec, Executive Vice President & Long Island Regional President, M&T Bank
Justin D. Locke, President, Board Member, Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum
Adam Mahoney, President & CEO, Network Outsource
Robert McBride, President & CEO, McBride Consulting & Business Development Group
Gary M. Meltzer, Partner & Chair of the Real Estate Practice Group, Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein & Breitstone, LLP
Maureen Tara Nelson, Founder & CEO, MTN Matchmaking
Paule Pachter, Chief Executive Officer, Long Island Cares
Connie Pinilla, Principal, The Connie Pinilla Team at Compass
Danny Pisani, Executive Vice President & Director of Sales, Contour Mortgage
Dr. Susan Poser, President, Hofstra University
Dr. Jeffrey L. Reynolds, President & CEO, Family & Children’s Association
Rob Rich, Celebrity and Socialite Photographer
Christine M. Riordan, Ph.D., President, Adelphi University
Michael N. Rosenblut, Chief Executive Officer, Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation
Richard Salgado, Chief Communications Officer, Gas It Up, Inc.
Dr. Timothy E. Sams, President, SUNY Old Wesbury
Steven R. Schlesinger, Co-Managing Partner, Jaspan Schlesinger Narendran LLP
Michael Serao, Executive Vice President & Chief Administrative Officer, First Central Savings Bank
Tammy Severino, President & CEO, Girl Scouts of Suffolk County
Todd Shapiro, President & CEO, Todd Shapiro Associates Public Relations
Lloyd Singer, Senior Vice President, Epoch 5 Public Relations
Howard M. Stein, Chair of the Real Estate Group, Certilman, Balin, Adler & Hyman, LLP
Mark Stempel, CEO, Founding Partner, Blue Island Homes
Karen Tenenbaum, Founder, Tax Attorney, Tenenbaum Law, P.C.
Hon. Kevin M. Thomas, NYS Senator, 6th Senate District
Chris Vaccaro, Media Executive, Professor and Author, Hofstra University, Suffolk Sports Hall of Fame and Italian American Baseball Foundation
Thomas L. Williams III, President, Advantage Care Health Centers
Butch Yamali, President, The Dover Group
Matthew Zebatto, Chief Executive Officer, Life’s WORC
To learn more about the Long Island Power Listers, visit LIPPowerList.com.
To learn more about Schneps Media’s upcoming events visit SchnepsEvents.com or reach out to the Director of Corporate Events Demetra Mattone at DMattone@schnepsmedia.com or call 718-260-4512.
