Western Suffolk Counselors’ Assn. Honors Huntington Duo

The Western Suffolk Counselors’ Association has honored Diana Bonilla as Counselor of the Year and Dr. Ricky V. Papandrea, Jr. as Administrator of the Year.

The Western Suffolk Counselors’ Association is a not for profit professional organization founded in 1953 for individuals engaged in, or interested in, any phase of counseling. Membership includes school counselors in public and private schools, mental health counselors, college admissions counselors, career counselors and professors and students in the field of counseling. It is an affiliate of the New York State Counselors’ Association.

Ms. Bonilla, a counselor at Huntington High School and Dr. Papandrea, district director of school counseling and testing, K-12 were both nominated by Huntington school counselor Daphne Ali.

“I am proud to share Diana Bonilla has been named Counselor of the Year,” Dr. Papandrea said. “This well-deserved recognition reflects her exceptional dedication to our students, families and the greater school community. I was also honored to receive the Administrator of the Year Award. I am truly grateful for the support of our district leadership.”

The Western Suffolk Counselors’ Association serves as a central clearing agency for information pertinent to present or contemplated counseling programs in the county.

“It is with great pride that we celebrate Diana Bonilla and Dr. Ricky Papandrea for being named Counselor of the Year and Administrator of the Year by the Western Suffolk Counselors Association,” Huntington Superintendent Beth McCoy said. “Diana’s unwavering dedication to the well-being and success of every student is truly inspiring, and Ricky’s leadership this year has fostered a supportive and student-centered environment in our schools. These honors are a reflection of their tireless commitment, compassion, and excellence. We are incredibly proud to have them as part of our district.”