2024-2025 Long Island Scholar Artists

The goal of the Scholar-Artist program is to honor exceptionally accomplished high school seniors September to June. Selections are made, each spring, from a pool of Long Island students. From these nominees, one monthly award winner from Nassau and one from Suffolk is chosen.

To learn more visit: http://longislandartsalliance.org/

Katie Swansig

Music and theater are more than extracurricular activities—they are lifelong passions shaped by family traditions, inspiring teachers and a drive to create for Katie Swansig. Katie’s journey began in her grandmother’s car, singing songs from “The Sound of Music.” 

“My passion for music started early,” Katie recalls. “I’ve always been surrounded by it—from my dad’s ’80s music to my granny’s show tunes. Music has given me a creative outlet to express myself and connect with others.”

Katie’s dedication has earned her numerous accolades at Oceanside High School, including being named an All-State Alternate, an All-County Vocalist for multiple years and the recipient of the prestigious National Choral Award in 2024. She also holds leadership roles as secretary of the Tri-M Music Honor Society, president of Swing Choir and student choral director, where she has helped foster a sense of community among her peers. 

Her accomplishments extend beyond performance. As part of her Girl Scout Gold Award project, Katie is creating an annual Theatre Rally workshop at her local library, introducing young students to theater through fun games, songs and dances. 

Katie, of Oceanside, plans to major in musical theater and minor in entrepreneurship in college, with the goal of starting her own theater company while auditioning for professional productions.

Danielle Kaplan

For Danielle Kaplan, theater is more than a craft—it’s a way of life. She finds inspiration in the unique elements of each production, including music, time periods and cultures, and she thrives on the problem-solving and collaboration involved in creating compelling stage designs.

“My art means everything to me,” says Danielle. “I love how I get to learn new things with each project and teach the skills I’ve learned to others,” she says. 

Over the course of her Syosset High School career, Danielle has earned numerous accolades, including Meritorious Achievement and Excellence Awards in Set Design from the Theatre Association of New York State for productions such as “Peter and the Starcatcher,” “Romeo and Juliet,” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Her photography has also been recognized with an Honorable Mention from the Huntington Camera Club and the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, where she also earned a Silver Key for a monologue.

Danielle’s impressive theatrical experience includes leadership roles such as technical director, stage manager, and assistant stage manager on over a dozen productions, including “Legally Blonde,” and “Chicago.” Her work has been featured at the Southeastern Summer Theatre Institute, where she served as a carpentry and design focus student for Gypsy. 

Danielle, of Syosset, plans to major in technical theater with a focus on scenic design, construction, or stage management, with the dream of working on Broadway and in New York City’s vibrant theater scene

Scarlett DePaul

For Scarlett DePaul, dance is an essential part of who she is. From the moment she steps onto the stage, Scarlett expresses herself in ways words cannot, channeling her emotions and experiences into every performance at Northport High School.

“Dance has always been a part of who I am,” Scarlett says. “It allows me to express myself through movement and has made me a better version of myself, helping me develop leadership and communication skills.

”Scarlett’s exceptional talent has earned her a place among the region’s top young artists. In 2024, she was named an Artistic Dance Exchange Prodigy. She also won the Artistic Dance Exchange Improv Competition and served as captain of the Northport Tigerettes Dance Team. Scarlett’s performances include showcases at the Long Island High School for the Arts Winter and Spring festivals, the LIHSA Solo Showcase and Artistic Dance Exchange competitions, where she excelled in both solo and group categories

Scarlett is involved in LIHSA Dance Buddies, Students Helping and Relating to Each Other, has performed for school spirit events and American Heart Association initiatives. She also shares her passion with younger students through “Tigerette for a Day” events with Girl Scout troops.

Scarlett plans to obtain a degree in dance with a minor in exercise science or kinesiology and hopes to one day work as an athletic trainer for professional dancers.

Arielle Ziff

Musical theater is more than just an art form for Arielle Ziff —it’s her therapy, her passion and her calling. Through performing, Arielle channels her emotions, finds inspiration in her surroundings and connects with audiences in meaningful ways.

“My art is my therapy,” Arielle, an Oceanside High School standout, shares. “It’s an outlet that lets me express and let go of everything that makes me happy, saddens me, or even makes me angry.”

Arielle’s dedication to her craft has earned her numerous honors, including Most Outstanding Student in theater and music categories from 2020 through 2024. She has also been an All-County Chorus member for two consecutive years and is a leader in her school’s music and theater programs, serving as president of the Tri-M Music Honor Society and vice president of the Thespian Honor Society.

Arielle’s standout performances include roles such as Pilar/Dance Captain in “Legally Blonde, ”Madame de la Grande Bouche in “Beauty and the Beast,” and Veruca Salt in “Wonka Jr.” She has also portrayed Mrs. White in “Clue” and Evil Tina in “She Kills Monsters.” She will assistant direct and choreograph “Frozen Jr.” with To The Stage, a performing arts program for children in Oceanside.

Arielle plans to pursue a degree in musical theater and dreams of performing as a Disney cast member, joining a Broadway tour and one day starring in a Broadway production.

Riley Wood

For Riley Wood, storytelling is more than a pet project at Wantagh High School—it’s a lifelong commitment and passion. Since the age of six, Riley has dreamed of becoming a writer and director for film and television, and every step along the way has been focused on achieving this goal.

“Filming is a gateway to many possibilities and worlds that only a special few can master,” says Riley. “Every choice I make, every story I write, every opportunity I take is all for the dream of sharing my stories.”

Riley’s dedication to the craft is evident in accomplishments. He received the prestigious Senior Award for Digital Publishing as a junior, being the only non-senior recognized at the event, and has showcased his work at the Long Island Media Arts Show and Film Media & Art Festival.

Riley’s dedication to the craft is evident in accomplishments. He received the prestigious Senior Award for Digital Publishing as a junior, being the only non-senior recognized at the event, and has showcased his work at the Long Island Media Arts Show and Film Media & Art Festival.

Beyond film, Riley, of Wantagh, served as a volunteer actor with the St. Frances Theatre Group and is a two-time student director on the high school’s theater board. He also holds key memberships to the National English Honors Society and International Thespian Society.

Riley plans to major in film after high school and continue crafting original stories that draw inspiration from history, literature and personal experience. He sees storytelling as a powerful way to connect with audiences, share ideas and build worlds that resonate deeply with others.

Maia Schnaider

Art is not just a passion for Maia Schnaider —it’s an inseparable part of who she is. Known as “the art girl” to her friends and family, Maia, of Half Hollow Hills West High School, finds inspiration in meaningful moments with loved ones and the beauty of nature.

“Art has always been an important part of my life,” Maia, of Dix Hills, shares. “It’s something I turn to when I need to relax, express myself, or capture memories.”

Maia won the prestigious Scholastic Art & Writing Gold Medal Award in 2024 and the Congressional Art Competition for New York’s 1st District. Her winning piece was displayed in the U.S. Capitol for a year.

Maia’s work has also been exhibited in the Heckscher Museum of Art’s “Long Island’s Best Showcase” in 2023 and 2024, where she earned multiple awards including the Andrew Presberg Promising Young Artist Award and the Renzo and Lynette Bianchi Scholarship. As president of the National Art Honor Society for 2024-25, her commitment to the arts extends beyond personal achievements. She paints sets for her school’s theater productions, designs homecoming banners and even participated in the Memory Project, creating a portrait of a Syrian girl.

Maia will pursue a degree in studio arts in college, but she’s still exploring specific universities and career paths. She knows one thing for certain—art will always be central to her future.

Eric Reilly

For Eric Reilly of Lynbrook, music is more than an art—it’s a way to connect people and evoke powerful emotions. The accomplished musician, who plays oboe, English horn and violin, has been performing in orchestras for over a decade.

“Music is a unique art form in that it can bring people together through distant memories or shared emotions in the moment,” says Eric. Eric’s passion for music is matched by his accolades at Lynbrook High School. He was selected for the 2024 NYSSMA All-State Wind Ensemble (English horn) and Symphony Orchestra (violin), earning perfect scores on multiple challenging pieces, including Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto and Vaughan Williams’ Oboe Concerto. He is also the recipient of the 2024 Lynbrook High School Arion Award for Orchestra.

Eric is dedicated to sharing the gift of music with others. He founded Students Gifting Music, a nonprofit organization that brings student musicians to nursing homes, hospitals and community events. In its first year, the organization grew to nearly 30 members and hosted performances that not only uplifted residents but also helped students prepare for auditions.

Eric plans to double major in oboe performance and chemistry, playing in orchestras and working in an organic chemistry lab during college.

Katelyn Guterwill

Ballet is a haven for Katelyn Guterwill of Sayville. The standout dancer from The American Dance Theatre of Long Island finds inspiration in the art around her, whether it’s poetry, paintings, or the performances of her favorite ballerinas.

“I find creative inspiration in every facet of the world around me,” says Katelyn. “Ballet is a special place of belonging, combining discipline, hard work, artistry and expression into a unique and beautiful art form.”

Katelyn’s dedication to dance has been recognized in numerous ways. She performed the Balanchine “Prayer” variation from “Mozartiana” at the prestigious Kaatsbaan Summer Intensive in 2024 and attended Boston Ballet’s Summer Dance Program in 2023. Her choreography has been featured by the Long Island Dance Consortium for three consecutive years, and her work for annual benefit fundraisers has raised money for organizations like Bethany House, Dancing Dreams and the Rachel Quinn Foundation.

Katelyn has been taught by legendary dancers and choreographers, including Paloma Herrera, Sara Mearns, Adrienne Schulte and Joan Boada, and trains with her artistic director Kathleen Karins-Scholz.

Katelyn plans to pursue a bachelor’s in ballet at an established university program or join a trainee program, with the ultimate goal of dancing professionally in a ballet company.

Mackenzie Kling

For Mackenzie Kling, performing is about connection and expression. The Mount Sinai High School senior has captivated audiences with her performances and leadership.

“I find that the connections formed on and off stage are some of my strongest bonds,” Mackenzie says. “Performing is an effective outlet for emotions and creativity, something that brings people together.”

Mackenzie’s work could be seen while performing with the SCMEA All-County Division III East Band in 2022 and with the NYSCAME All-County Treble Choir and NYSSMA All-State Mixed Chorus last year. This year, she received a Teeny Award nomination for a supporting role in a musical drama. Her roles range from Titania in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” to Mona Lipschitz in “Chicago” and The Cat in the Hat in “Seussical.” Beyond these productions, she performed as Gretchen Wieners in “Mean Girls Jr.” at Theatre Three and regularly participates in school cabarets, talent shows and community events.

In addition to her performing arts involvement, Mackenzie is active in both academic and artistic organizations. She is a member of the chamber and treble choir, pep band, the Tri-M Music Honor Society and currently serves as president of Mount Sinai Performing Arts. Her commitment to the arts extends beyond her school; she recently spent the summer in local community theater, gaining valuable experiences with different directors and cast mates.

Mackenzie plans to major in biochemistry in college, with a minor or active involvement in musical theater, keeping her passion for performing alive alongside her academic pursuits. She hopes to attend medical school and specialize as an anesthesiologist, while always cherishing her love for the arts.

Janice Lee

For Janice Lee, art is both a passion and a pathway to personal growth. The Syosset High School senior, who also attends the Long Island High School for the Arts, has used her talent to impact her community while earning prestigious awards, including first place in the SkillsUSA Regional Pin Design and the Juror’s Award from LIU Post Advanced Vision-19.
“Art serves as a way to express my ideas, emotions and personal experiences in a creative and innovative approach without any restrictive limits,” Janice says. “It’s not only a pure hobby for me but a piece of my identity.”
Her work has been showcased in exhibits like the Nassau County High School Exhibit and Syosset Public Library. Janice is an active member of the National Art Honor Society, where she serves as secretary. Through the society, she has created projects such as Elderly Portraits gifted to nursing centers, holiday cards for nursing homes and hospital get-well cards. Janice also participates in the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s annual Macy’s Star project.

“Through art, I can experience growth and self-development in many positive aspects,” says Janice

Janice plans to attend art college, where she will major in a field related to photography and design, with the goal of building a career in either of those professions.

“Art serves as a way to express my ideas, emotions, and personal experiences in a creative and innovative approach without any restrictive limits,” Janice says.

Sara Nearenberg

For Sara Nearenberg, theater is not just a passion, it’s a calling. As a senior at Locust Valley High School, she has embraced her artistic journey with dedication and enthusiasm.

“When it comes to creative inspiration, the one place I can rely on is an empty room,” she says. “I can walk into any closet, classroom, hallway, auditorium, or bedroom and no matter how cluttered or barren it is, all I can think about is how I can fill every cubic inch of space with my presence.”

Sara was recently honored with the Long Island Arts Alliance Scholar-Artist Award of Distinction in Theatre Arts. She has also been nominated for the regional Roger Rees Outstanding Performance Awards Audition, further highlighting her accomplishments in the performing arts.

Sara’s performances on stage are numerous and varied from playing Billy Flynn and Mona in “Chicago, the Musical” at the high school, to embodying Jen in “John and Jen” at the National High School Institute at Northwestern University. She has also portrayed roles such as Young Philo and Agnes in “The Farnsworth Invention,” and Emma in Abigail Maselli’s award-winning student film “The Dinner,” which won Best Comedy at the Long Island Student Film Festival and the Audience Choice Award at the Long Island International Film Expo in 2024.

Sara plans to major in musical theatre or theatre arts, with aspirations of taking on stage and theater roles after college. She is also considering a master’s degree in education.

Lauren Gilbert

Dance for Lauren Gilbert is all about energy. The standout senior feeds off fellow dancers as she performs at Kings Park High School.

“I am heavily inspired by other dancers and my peers,” says Lauren. “The dance world is continuously expanding, and I am always finding new people to be inspired by.”

Lauren’s talent has been recognized with multiple awards, including as a Kids Artistic Review (KAR) Protégé Performer Award Winner in 2023, plus numerous regional and national accolades throughout 2024. She has performed in several prestigious events, including the Long Island High School for the Arts Winter and Spring performances, along with the Encore Dance Academy Recital.

As president of the National Honor Society for Dance Arts and as a member of the National Honor Society, Lauren is a dedicated leader in both her academics and passion for dance. Dance is more than just an art form for Lauren; it is an adoration and a way of life. This fall, she will embark on an exciting journey, touring with the KAR Dance Convention and assisting their prestigious faculty in cities across the country.

Lauren plans to major in kinesiology or exercise science, minor in dance and join a college dance team, with a goal of dancing professionally. Later in her career, she hopes to become a physical therapist specializing in dancers and athletes.

Thomas Lasher

Thomas Lasher has distinguished himself as a talented musician and leader at Newfield High School. He was selected for the prestigious NYSSMA All-State Symphonic Band in 2024, and earned a place in the NYSCAME All County Band and the NYSBDA Honor Band the same year. Throughout his high school career, Thomas has participated in various honor ensembles, including SCMEA All County and was named a NYSSMA All-State Symphonic Band Alternate last years.

“I find my creative inspiration in the story that music tells, Thomas says.” I channel the emotion of a piece by sharing my personal emotion while playing.”

Thomas is deeply involved in his school and community. As president of the Tri-M Music Honor Society and historian of both the African Drum Club and Class Council, he has showcased his leadership abilities. He also plays an active role in the Jazz Band and participates in the Pit Orchestra and Mock Trial. Thomas is a member of multiple honor societies, including the National Honor Society (where he serves as chair liaison), the International Thespian Honor Society and the Spanish Honor Society.

Thomas has performed with the Northport Community Band, played “Taps” at the Centereach Fire Department's 9/11 ceremony and performed the National Anthem at a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a local kindergarten and pre-K playground.

For Thomas, music is a profound form of expression. He finds creative inspiration in the stories that music tells and aims to convey his personal emotions through his performances, beyond simply playing the notes.

Thomas plans to attend Penn State University, where he will major in pre-medicine with a minor in euphonium performance. He aspires to be a member of Penn State’s renowned Blue Band while pursuing his dream of attending medical school to become a neurosurgeon.

Abigail Maselli

Film is about emotion for Abigail Maselli. The Locust Valley High School standout hopes to move audiences as she works toward a career producing for the big screen.

“I believe art should motivate,” Abigail says. “Whether that’s motivating an audience to cry or laugh, or motivating a group to change their bias,’ art is the medium of communicating with people’s humanity.”

Abigail’s passion for filmmaking is driven by a deep interest in history, anthropology, literature and theater. She views film as a powerful medium to provoke thought and inspire change by challenging societal norms. Her artistic philosophy centers on motivating audiences—whether to laugh, cry, or rethink their perspectives.

As president of the film club, Abigail mentors aspiring filmmakers at the middle school, guiding them in editing, camera techniques and broadcasting. She also plays a key role in stage productions, working as stage manager for the middle and elementary school musicals.

Abigail has earned numerous accolades, including recognition at the All-American High School Film Festival in 2024 and winning the Audience Choice Student Film Award at the Long Island International Film Expo. She has also swept various categories at the Locust Valley Film Festival and the Long Island Media Arts Show, receiving awards for Best Narrative, Best Alternative Film, and several first-place finishes in comedy, PSA and other genres.

Outside of filmmaking, Abigail is a well-rounded individual, excelling as a guitarist in the Jazz Band and serving as captain of the field hockey and track teams.

Abigail plans to pursue a degree in film and television production, focusing on directing. She hopes to study abroad, explore global filmmaking and ultimately work on professional sets with the goal of directing her own feature films.