Copiague Celebrates Hall of Achievement With Six New Honorees

Copiague School District held its 29th annual Hall of Achievement induction ceremony on Oct. 17 at Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School. Inductees were joined by friends, family, administrators and Board of Education members to celebrate this occasion. This year’s honorees include six alumni, bringing the total number of members to 138: Brian Burton Jr., Donna Curcio Farina, Dr. Mu-Tor Flood, Tracey Nixon, Moya Novella and Robert Waidler. 

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kathleen Bannon welcomed guests to the ceremony. “The Hall of Achievement’s primary purpose is to introduce these alumni as positive and motivating role models to keep to our entire school community connected,” she said. “Inductees to the Hall of Achievement inspire our students to reach for high goals. At the beginning of the school year, our incoming freshman students are introduced to the Hall of Achievement and what it means to be a member of that special group of Copiague graduates.”

Board of Education President Brian J. Sales added, “This year’s inductees, like those before them, are outstanding individuals. Each of them has many memories of growing up in Copiague and going through our school system. Now, more than ever, students need role models to look up to. Our inductees fill that role. Every time students walk past the Hall of Achievement, they see what someone who walked through these same halls can accomplish. Tonight, we celebrate not only what our inductees have achieved, but also the example they set for every student who follows in their footsteps.” 

A member of the Class of 1986, Mr. Burton credits Copiague High School for inspiring his passion for law and service. After earning degrees from Nassau Community College and St. John’s University, he joined the Amityville Village Police Department, serving 32 years, including as chief. Today, he enjoys retirement with his wife Beth and family.

Mrs. Farina is a lifelong Copiague resident whose commitment to community, leadership and service has made a lasting impression. A Class of 1977 graduate, she credits her education, teachers and friendships in shaping her career in business, real estate and early childhood education. A proud wife, mother and grandmother, she serves as president of the Copiague Chamber of Commerce, championing initiatives that strengthen businesses, partnerships and community pride.

Dr. Flood, Class of 1999, fondly recalls Copiague teachers who inspired his growth and confidence. Today, he is an industrial-organizational psychologist, author, researcher, filmmaker and chair of psychology at Bethune-Cookman University. His work advances African-centered psychology, while his wife Andrea and children remain his greatest source of inspiration and purpose.

A member of the Class of 1988, Ms. Nixon currently serves as a vice president and claims manager within the insurance industry. A cofounder of 5,6,7,8 Cultural Dance Ensemble, she has enriched local youth through dance and mentorship for over two decades. A proud mother, grandmother and community advocate, she treasures her Copiague roots and lifelong friendships.

Ms. Novella is global privacy and Al legal counsel at IBM, advising on privacy, artificial intelligence and data security. An adjunct law professor, international speaker and recognized leader in emerging technology law, she credits Copiague's diverse community with inspiring her commitment to inclusion, global engagement and building meaningful connections across cultures.

Mr. Waidler, Class of 1969, lived by the values of integrity, service and compassion. An Army veteran, LIRR union leader, Hall of Fame youth coach, and dedicated volunteer, he spent his life helping others. His legacy of friendship, mentorship and community service continues to inspire his family, friends and neighbors.