The South Huntington Educational Foundation, better known as SHEF, presented its first annual Bravo Awards on Thursday night, January 30th, at the James Kaden Administration Building.  For many years, SHEF has dedicated itself to the support of music, art, and dance education in the South Huntington School District.  SHEF helps to augment these important school programs when district budgeting cannot.  By adding the Bravo Awards scholarship program, SHEF completes its circle of support by assisting our performing arts students as they journey beyond South Huntington.

These awards recognize students who demonstrate excellence in art, dance, music, and theater. The Renaissance Award recognizes an individual who excelled in more than one art form.

Congratulations to our 2025 Bravo Award winners! In the Dance category: Giuliana McGuigan, Trailblazer: Excellence & Artistry Award; Anna Sabelllico, Breakthrough Dancer Award; Morgan O’Donoghue, Pioneer: Expertise & Leadership

In the Arts category: Ava Hedstrom, Promising Young Artist-Visual Arts Award; Morgan Franz, Artistic Growth Visual Arts Award; Julian Baxter, Most Creative Visual Arts Award

In the Music category: Bronsyn Chiechi, Emerging Young Artist Award; Aaron Cimadevilla, Growth in Musical Performance Award; Aiden Dearborn, Excellence in Leadership in Music Award

In the Theater category: Gracie DeMarinis, Leading Player Award; Chris Portillo Gomez, Outstanding Contribution to Theater Arts Award

And the Renaissance Artist Award was presented to Ethan Thody.

“Through SHEF’s support, we have been able to provide experiences and resources that set our programs apart. These opportunities, which are often beyond the reach of students in other schools, allow our young artists to push boundaries, hone their craft, and gain invaluable exposure to the wider world of fine arts. The Bravo Awards are a testament to these achievements and a source of inspiration for our students to continue to strive for excellence.  Tonight, we come together to honor their hard work, talent  and overall passion,” said Walt Whitman principal, Dr. John Murphy. 

We thank the members of the South Huntington Educational Foundation, the Walt Whitman High School Fine & Performing Arts Department, and South Huntington Nutrition Services for putting together a magical night for our award winners and their families!

View the photo gallery here. 

Starting the evening off was the recipient of the Leading Player Award, Gracie DeMarinis, singing the National Anthem.

Visual artists, such as Ava Hedstrom seen here, had their work on display for guests to view at the celebratory dinner.

Bronsyn Chiechi, recipient of the Emerging Young Artist Award, performed ‘Sonate” on the clarinet.

Music educator, Mr. Greg Modelewski (left), and Chairperson of Music, Art and Dance, Mr. Matt Hoffman (right), were proud to nominate and honor three of their students for the esteemed Music Awards.

Dance award winners Giuliana McGuigan, Anna Sabellico, and Morgan O’Donoghue performed a choreographed piece to “Ghostland.”

Recipient of the award for Renaissance Artist, Ethan Thody, wrapped up the evening of celebration with a wonderful performance of “All I Care About” from Chicago.

Members of the South Huntington Education Foundation (SHEF) stood behind the recipients of the first annual Bravo Awards. Thanks to SHEF, our district students have unparalleled opportunities to explore and excel in all their artistic pursuits. Thank you to SHEF and BRAVO to all of our award winners!