Kennedy alumni group to install ‘Walk of Recognition’

The Kennedy High School alumni association plans to beautify school grounds while also raising money for student scholarships and offering the community the chance to honor friends and family –– all with the Cougar Walk of Recognition. 

Bellmore JFK Alumni, Inc. is sponsoring a “Buy a Brick” fundraiser in conjunction with construction of a walkway outside the school’s athletic complex. Money raised will be distributed to organizations like the PTA for scholarships at Kennedy’s annual senior awards ceremony. 

Ronald Steiger, who graduated Kennedy in 1972 and is now the alumni association’s public relations director, said group members had noticed brick walkways with inscribed messages at other schools and venues like Citi Field and Yankee Stadium. Not only did they like the look of the paths, but also they saw an opportunity to raise school spirit and support the graduating seniors. 

“The school is going to be going through extensive changes because of the bond that passed, so we thought this would be a good time to further the beautification process,” Steiger said. “The bricks will be permanent and give people the chance to give all sorts of recognition to others.”

The association is working with Valley Stream-based A. Alfieri Contractors, Inc. Information about the pricing of bricks and project plans will be shared in the group’s May newsletter.

Students and teachers first heard about the project three weeks ago, Steiger said, when administrators sent an email to parents of seniors. Principal Lorraine Poppe said the alumni association has worked closely with school officials to plan the walkway.

“It will be a wonderful place for people to gather during school and community events,” Poppe said. “We have received a lot of positive feedback from school personnel and community members and look forward to seeing the design become a reality.”

Steiger said bricks should be purchased by July 1. The walkway will be installed in October. Because Bellmore JFK, Inc. is a nonprofit organization, a brick purchase would be tax-deductible.