Three Exceptional
PTA Volunteers Honored
Three exceptional volunteers were honored for a job well-done during the Huntington PTA Council's annual luncheon at the Huntington Crescent Club.
Christine Bene, Suzanne Millner and Mary Ann Smith were recognized for their exceptional efforts and advocacy on behalf of students, teachers and fellow parents.
The three volunteers earned the PTA's Recognition and Achievement Award, which is presented annually to retiring members of the PTA's leadership as their youngest child graduates from the district.
Mrs. Bene began her PTA service 13 years ago at the Woodhull Kindergarten Center, according to Marilyn Maggio, co-president of the Huntington High School PTSA. Mrs. Bene later spent time volunteering at Flower Hill School, Huntington Intermediate School, J. Taylor Finley Middle School and the high school. She held numerous executive offices in building level PTA organizations as well as serving stints as the PTA Council's president and vice-president.
While volunteering in the district, Mrs. Bene raised three children, daughters Kimberly and Brooke and son Andrew, a 2011 graduate. "This honoree has exemplified true leadership and put herself out there as a trustee on the board of education," said Mrs. Maggio. "She is well-respected by parents, teachers and administration."
Mrs. Millner, a Huntington High School graduate, also began volunteering 13 years ago. She has served on PTA executive boards at several schools and participated on many committees ranging from fundraising and fashion shows to pasta dinners, shared decision making and staff appreciation.
"She is known throughout the district as a supportive volunteer with no complaints and always a smile," said Mrs. Maggio. "Wherever there was a need, Suzanne was always there to help. Her focus obviously was always on the kids of the district."
While volunteering, Mrs. Millner raised sons Shawn, a graduate of the US Air Force Academy and Patrick, a grad of SUNY Maritime College. Daughter Kaitlin, a 2011 Huntington graduate, is headed to St. Leo University in Florida.
Mrs. Smith has been a PTA mainstay for the past eight years, serving as Finley PTA and PTA Council corresponding secretary and the PTA Council vice-president. She was a member of Woodhull School's sixth grade committee.
This past year, Mrs. Smith was co-president of the Huntington High School PTSA with Mrs. Maggio. "Her presence was calming and reassuring," Mrs. Maggio said. "She was always willing to send out a last minute e-mail or to chase someone down."
Mrs. Smith has also been active in the Blue Devil crew program. She has sent two children through the district, including her son Thomas, who is a member of Huntington's Class of 2011.
"These three wonderful volunteers epitomize the spirit of PTA service," said Bari Fehrs, PTA Council president.