The Greater Amsterdam School District proudly presents the 2024 Hall of Fame Inductees, a prestigious event celebrating our distinguished alums' exceptional achievements and contributions. The induction ceremony, a momentous occasion, will take place on October 12, 2024, at the Bridge Walk on Route 30 in Amsterdam, NY 12010. The evening will commence with a cocktail hour (cash bar) at 5:00 PM, followed by a delectable dinner and the induction ceremony at 6:00 PM, where we will honor the remarkable legacies of our inductees.
2024 Academic Inductees:
Aniela "Nell" Znamierowska
A 1949 graduate of Wilbur H. Lynch High School, Nell is a world-renowned textile artist whose works are featured in major museums, including the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the Cooper-Hewitt Museum, and the Art Institute of Chicago.
Dave Mendez
A 1987 graduate of Amsterdam High School, Dave served nearly three decades as a Navy pilot, rising to the rank of Commander. In retirement, he co-founded Veterans' Time to Thrive, a charitable organization supporting retired military veterans, further demonstrating his commitment to service and community.
Marlena Werder
A 1982 graduate of Amsterdam High School, who rose to lead the global technical support organization for Microsoft. Marlena founded the DigiGirls program to inspire young girls to pursue tech careers and led a team to Malawi to provide computers and training to children, among other things.
Earl Bellinger, Ph.D.
A 2008 graduate of Amsterdam High School, Earl earned degrees from SUNY Oswego, Indiana University, and the University of Göttingen. He is currently an Assistant Professor of Astronomy at Yale University. Earl developed the MESA stellar evolution code and is involved in the PLATO mission. His research on pulsating stars has been featured in prominent publications, contributing significantly to our understanding of the universe.
Alex Torres
A 1981 graduate of Amsterdam High School, Alex is a renowned musician who founded Alex Torres and His Latin Orchestra. The band has received numerous awards and performed for distinguished audiences, including President Bill and Hillary Clinton. Alex's contributions to music and his efforts to share Latino culture have left a lasting impact locally and internationally.
Dr. Ronald Marsh
A 1977 graduate of Amsterdam High School, Dr. Marsh earned his Biology degree from Siena College and his medical degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine. A pioneer in robotic surgery, Dr. Marsh has performed over 2,750 procedures and has significantly improved medical care in the Greater Amsterdam community. His dedication to his patients and innovative approach have made him a respected leader in his field.
Tom Perillo
A 1970 graduate of Amsterdam High School, Tom dedicated his career to the Greater Amsterdam School District. He served in various roles, including teacher, coach, principal, and superintendent, guiding the district through numerous challenges. Tom's leadership and commitment have profoundly benefited the school community and the Amsterdam area.
2024 Athletic Inductees:
Pat Liverio
A 1979 graduate of Amsterdam High School, Pat is one of the most successful coaches in the school's history. After excelling as a student-athlete, he returned to AHS to teach and coach. Pat led the football team to an impressive 130-34-1 record, winning seven league titles, six Section 2 titles, and a state championship. This honor celebrates his contributions to athletics and his commitment to his alma mater.
Omahri Sturdivant
A 2016 graduate of Amsterdam High School, Omahri holds nine school records in track and field. He competed at SUNY Albany on a Division 1 scholarship, becoming an All-Academic Team member and winning the Puerto Rican National Championship in the Triple Jump. Omahri's outstanding achievements have left a lasting legacy in Amsterdam's athletic program.
Jordyn Kline
A 2007 graduate of Amsterdam High School, Jordyn began her swimming career at age eight and quickly emerged as a standout athlete. She set five school records and earned a full scholarship for Division 1 swimming at the State University at Binghamton. Beyond her athletic achievements, Jordyn continues to give back by coaching swimming in Philadelphia and participating in marathon running for charity.
Louis Fedullo
A 1980 graduate of Amsterdam High School, Lou was a three-sport athlete known for his prowess in baseball and basketball. He scored over 1,000 points in high school basketball and earned a full scholarship to play Division I basketball at Siena College. This induction honors Lou's contributions to Amsterdam sports and his family's athletic legacy.
Dale Stanavich
Dale Stanavich, a 2017 graduate of Amsterdam High School, was selected by the Miami Marlins in the eighth round of the 2022 MLB Draft after excelling in both baseball and football during high school. He started his college career at Marshall University before transferring to Herkimer Community College and then Rutgers University, where he continued to excel, particularly in the 2022 season with multiple accolades and crucial saves. Stanavich's journey from high school to professional baseball highlights his hard work, dedication, and significant achievements.
2024 Legacy Team:
The 2007-2008 Amsterdam Varsity Wrestling Team emerged as a dominant force, showcasing resilience and commitment. With many standout wrestlers supported by a dedicated coaching staff, the team's collective efforts resulted in an unforgettable season marked by teamwork and leadership, leaving a lasting legacy in wrestling.
The Butch Miller Distinguished Service Award: Dr Robert and Linda Selbert
Doctor Robert and Linda Selbert are being recognized for their impact on the Amsterdam community and the Amsterdam Marching Rams for their many dedicated years of sponsoring the beloved holiday light show "Light Up the Sky with the Marching Rams"
The GASD Hall of Fame ceremony will celebrate these inductees' remarkable achievements and lasting impact on our community. Tickets for the event are available at the Amsterdam High School Athletic office, by contacting us at halloffame@gasd.org, or by texting/calling (518) 878-6374.