American Dreamer awards honor contributions, collaboration
Throughout the school year, even in summer, Southern Westchester BOCES Center for Special Services programs serve the varied instructional and developmental needs of students, in part thanks to partnerships within the community.
From business owners and managers to component district staff members and other educational partners, these individuals contribute to students’ success. Once a year, it is time to pause and reflect on their contributions and to say thank you.
The 33rd annual American Dreamer Achievement Awards once again lauded those who work closely with SWBOCES students and educators to enhance the educational experience of students.
“Our honorees support our programs in a variety of ways,” Director of Special Services Jessica Walker said. “Please know it makes a huge difference in the lives of our students.”
The luncheon is catered each year by the Culinary Arts program at the Center for Career Services campus in Valhalla.
It takes a village, Deputy Superintendent Dr. Brendan Lyons said of the community support that contributes to the success of Southern Westchester BOCES students.
“Today we’re here to celebrate several members of our communities who share that mission of support for our students,” he said.
Thank you to all of our honorees. These awards are well-deserved, and your contributions are greatly appreciated!
The 2026 honorees
Jim Demetros, Owner, Big Apple Smoothie in White Plains
Mr. Demetros welcomes students from St. Matthew’s School to work in his store, learning from him and his staff key skills in serving the public and performing in-store tasks. Principal Diana Dinzey said he is also generous with his time, visiting the program, meeting parents and often arriving with several of his delicious, signature smoothies.
Liz Alvarez, Store Manager, DSW Warehouse in White Plains
Ms. Alvarez also welcomes St. Matthew’s students to fill vocational roles that impart life skills that will serve them long after graduation. Her commitment to ensuring students feel welcomed, valued, included and capable means so much to their success, Ms. Dinzey said. She continues her commitment through the summer, when vocational programs typically pause.
Khali Murell, Director, White Plains Alternative High School
As host of our Rochambeau School programs, Ms. Murrell is a wonderful educational partner, Assistant Principal Maria Almeida said, always including SWBOCES students as part of the school community and seeking collaboration between the two schools.
Dr. Steven Chetcuti, Technology/Music Teacher, White Plains Alternative High School
Developing a mentorship program in which his students coach SWBOCES students in coding, robotics and other tech skills is one example where Dr. Chetcuti goes above and beyond as a partner. He checks in on our students and demonstrates a commitment to an inclusive and collaborative partnership.
Claire Polin, Community Partner, Westchester Institute for Human Development
Claire regularly visits Rye Lake Lower Campus to support students' work-based learning activities. She is engaging and provides individualized guidance and encouragement. As an individual with disabilities herself, Claire understands the challenges and the need for support and advocacy. She is a role model and genuine friend to our students.
Carolyn Murphy, Director, Children’s Community-Based Mental Health Services
Ms. Murphy works with SWBOCES clinical providers and staff to support students at Rye Lake Middle-High School. Her efforts to support students go beyond the school building in seeking the best outcomes, and she is a pleasure to work with.
Stephanie Annunziata, Counselor, SUNY Westchester Community College
From college tours to hands-on application assistance, Stephanie’s passion for helping students with what can be a high-pressure process has been enormously helpful for SWBOCES students transitioning to post-high school life. She is patient, helpful and compassionate in providing students with the support they need.
Fr. Francis Amodio, Pastor, Church of the Transfiguration, Tarrytown
As a host and partner, Fr. Amodio has been a tremendous support in SWBOCES’ first year at Transfiguration School. He is curious, helpful and committed to problem-solving, Principal Francesca Fernandez said, and he has been wonderful to work with this past year.