Honorees from Bethpage, Plainview, Massapequa, Jericho, Syosset, Oyster Bay, Massapequa Park, Glen Head & Hicksville Recognized
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino joined Women of Distinction Committeewomen Councilwoman Laura Maier and Councilwoman Vicki Walsh, together with Town Clerk Rich LaMarca and Receiver of Taxes Jeff Pravato, to host the 2026 Women of Distinction Ceremony to recognize exceptional women who have significantly given back to our communities. This year’s ceremony recognized 12 honorees who live and work throughout the Town of Oyster Bay.
Supervisor Saladino stated, “These extraordinary women all have outstanding qualities and have truly made our Town a better place. Together with my colleagues on the Town Board, we salute these outstanding residents for giving back to the charities, our hometown and the neighbors they love so much.”
Councilwoman Maier added, “All of our honorees have gone above and beyond in their communities. These women have an inspiring story to tell, and while their backgrounds are different they all have one thing in common – they don’t do what they do looking for accolades. All our honorees should take pride in their great achievements as they are true role models in their various fields and communities.”
2026 HONOREES
Dorothy Roberts of Jericho
Dorothy has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to mentoring young professionals and students in the community through her volunteer role as president of the Long Island Hospitality Association. As a leader in the hospitality and tourism industry, she also works diligently to promote small businesses and the history of Oyster Bay and its significance to Long Island.
Mary Ann Marriott of Syosset
Mary Ann is a former teacher whose career first began in 1959. She later worked in the Syosset School District, and in the Religious Education Program at St. Edwards, both as a teacher and director. After a successful career, Mary Ann retired from Syosset Schools but continued on her educational journey for another 20+ years, teaching reading to dyslexic children, and working with special needs children throughout Nassau County.
Jill Seplowitz of Plainview
Jill is the founder of Champions for Childhood, a grassroots organization dedicated to restoring childhood and advocating for healthy, developmentally appropriate environments for kids. Her organization is dedicated to protecting childhood experiences and promoting healthier boundaries around screen use.
Gaetina Hodnett of Massapequa
Gaetina is a distinguished educator with more than 32 years of dedicated service in special education, early intervention and community-based learning. Gaetina’s leadership is sturdy, faith-anchored and grounded in the belief that education is not simply a profession, it is a calling.
Katherine Brenton of Bethpage
While there is probably no community event that she’s not involved in, Kathy is best known for her involvement in the Bethpage St. Patrick’s Day Parade. She is a founder of this event, which is among the most popular on all of Long Island. Kathy is also involved in the St Martin of Tours Parish food pantry, helping countless of residents in need who face food insecurity.
Treasa Kalliath, Esq. of Jericho
Treasa is the Principal of Kalliath Law, an immigration law firm dedicated to serving individuals and families navigating the complexities of US immigration. Through her legal practice, she provides counsel and advocacy for immigrant families, with a particular focus on vulnerable and underserved communities.
Mary Koslap-Petraco, NP of Massapequa Park
As a public health nurse for more than 30 years for the Suffolk County Department of Health Services, Mary managed immunization and lead programs, provided education to staff and the public on communicable diseases and assisted in the management of communicable diseases. Mary also speaks on immunizations and infectious diseases both nationally and internationally.
Lorraine Dammes Quirk of Oyster Bay
As a nurse practitioner, Lorraine shows unwavering support for family and community and a commitment to helping those most in need. Outside of her demanding career, Lorraine has made it a tradition to travel each summer to a remote mountain community in Jamaica to provide medical care to severely underserved families.
Kelly Palfi of Massapequa
Kelly is a longtime member and current vice president of the Long Island RoughRiders Sled hockey organization. Through her work, Kelly has helped RoughRiders participants break barriers and redefine what is possible in recreational and competitive sled hockey. Her dedication has ensured that those who may be differently-abled can continue to play the sports they love.
Alyssa Guidice of Hicksville
Throughout her career, Alyssa has used her entrepreneurial success to give back to the community, including her efforts with the Long Island Pizza Strong organization, which she organized to raise charitable funds for those affected by tragedy. Beyond her philanthropic efforts, Alyssa has played a vital role in promoting and strengthening Long Island’s business community.
Bette Blankfein of Glen Head
Bette has been making a difference in her community for decades, first as an elementary school special education teacher in the North Shore School District, and then in her retirement as the founder of an English language learning program for adults at the Gold Coast Public Library. She initiated and organized the ‘Learning Together’ program, pairing residents with volunteer tutors.
Lisa Fiebert of Massapequa
Lisa is a community activist and talented artist with a passion for photography since childhood. Her artwork has been showcased throughout local businesses and libraries, some who have even incorporated her photographs in their décor. Taking great pride in her local roots, Lisa co-authored a book highlighting a pictorial history of her hometown.