AMSTERDAM, N.Y. — The Greater Amsterdam School District Hall of Fame Committee is proud to announce the Hall of Fame Class of 2026, honoring an exceptional group of alumni whose accomplishments in education, science, public service, business, music, athletics, and community leadership have brought distinction to Amsterdam High School and the Greater Amsterdam community.
The Class of 2026 represents a remarkable cross-section of Rams excellence, with inductees whose achievements have reached the local, national, and even international stage. They will be formally recognized during the Greater Amsterdam School District Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Saturday, Sept. 19, at Meg's Above Par Dining at the Amsterdam Municipal Golf Course. The evening will also recognize the 1994–95 Amsterdam High School Boys' Basketball Team as the 2026 Legacy Team and honor four longtime volunteers with the 2026 Butch Miller Award for their extraordinary service to Amsterdam High School basketball.
Academic Wing
Dr. Christian Alberto (Class of 2006) – An accomplished higher education administrator and advocate for educational access, diversity, and student success. Dr. Alberto currently serves as Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management at SUNY College of Optometry and was recognized with the University of Pittsburgh's Distinguished Dissertation of the Year Award for his groundbreaking research on expanding access to professional education.
Richard Allen (Class of 1971) – A beloved educator, coach, mentor, and community leader whose more than four decades of service to Amsterdam students and athletes have left a lasting impact. Allen also played a pivotal role in establishing the Greater Amsterdam School District Hall of Fame and served as its chairman for many years.
Michael Cinquanti (Class of 1972) – Entrepreneur, author, community volunteer, and current Mayor of the City of Amsterdam. Cinquanti's leadership in business and public service has strengthened the community while preserving and promoting Amsterdam's rich history and heritage.
Angelo DiBlasi (Class of 1944) – A distinguished physicist and aerospace engineer whose work on the historic F-1 Rocket Engine Program contributed directly to the success of the Apollo Moon missions, representing one of the most significant scientific achievements connected to an Amsterdam High School graduate.
Meg Duffy (Class of 2008) – Nationally acclaimed musician, songwriter, producer, and founder of the influential musical project Hand Habits. Duffy has earned widespread recognition as one of the most respected artists and collaborators in contemporary independent music.
Robert A. Spagnola (Class of 1983) – Longtime Recreation Director for the City of Amsterdam whose vision and dedication have transformed parks, youth programming, community events, and civic engagement throughout the city for more than two decades.
Athletic Wing
Timothy Czeski (Class of 1975) – A standout three-sport athlete, student leader, and longtime Amsterdam firefighter. Czeski earned All-State honors in football before dedicating 30 years of service to protecting the Amsterdam community.
James "Jimbo" Phelps (Class of 1985) – One of the most prolific scorers in Amsterdam basketball history, Phelps led Section II in scoring as a senior before continuing his athletic and academic career at Hobart College. He currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of AAA Northway.
Salvatore Sollecito (Class of 1979) – A dominant two-sport athlete whose outstanding accomplishments in football and wrestling earned regional recognition, including induction into the Capital Region Football Hall of Fame.
Bryan Stanavich (Class of 2016) – One of the most accomplished multi-sport athletes in Amsterdam High School history, Stanavich established multiple school football records while excelling in three varsity sports before serving four years in the United States Army.
Robert "Bobby" Stewart (Class of 1970) – National Golden Gloves Champion, professional boxer, trainer, and mentor whose influence on the sport extends far beyond his own achievements. Stewart is widely recognized as the first trainer and mentor of future heavyweight champion Mike Tyson and has positively impacted countless young lives through boxing and mentorship.
2026 Legacy Team
In addition to honoring this year's individual inductees, the Hall of Fame will recognize the 1994–95 Amsterdam High School Boys' Basketball Team as the 2026 Legacy Team.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest teams in school history, the Rams captured the Section II Class B Championship and advanced to the New York State Championship Game. Their electrifying style of play, unforgettable "Showtime" introductions, and overwhelming community support made the team one of the most beloved in Amsterdam athletics. More than three decades later, the 1994–95 Rams continue to inspire generations of Amsterdam basketball players and fans.
2026 Butch Miller Award
This year's recipients are Bob Malicki, public address announcer; Charlie Brown, scoreboard operator; Mike DelSanto, shot clock operator; and Mike Bilicki, scorebook keeper. Together, they generously devoted countless hours to the Amsterdam High School basketball program, forming a trusted and dependable team behind the scenes. They worked every home game and frequently traveled with the Rams to away contests, ensuring each game was conducted with professionalism, accuracy, and pride.
The Hall of Fame Induction Dinner will begin with a cocktail hour at 6 p.m., followed by dinner and the induction ceremony at 7 p.m.
Reservations are open to the public. The cost is $60 per person ($55 for current Hall of Fame members and Legacy Team members, and $25 for children under 12). Reservations and payment must be received by Sept. 1.
For additional information, reservations, or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Hall of Fame Chairwoman Nancy Spagnola at nspagnola@gasd.org or (518) 852-0520.
About the Greater Amsterdam School District Hall of Fame
The Greater Amsterdam School District Hall of Fame recognizes graduates, educators, coaches, teams, and community members whose achievements, leadership, and service have brought distinction to Amsterdam High School and the Greater Amsterdam community. Through its Academic and Athletic Wings, the Hall of Fame preserves and celebrates the rich tradition of excellence that has shaped generations of Rams.