Detective Jonathan Diller Scholarship Fund announced for alma mater

The last time Stephanie Diller visited Mulcahy’s Pub in Wantagh, it was with her husband, fallen New York Police Department Detective Jonathan Diller, a Franklin Square native. The couple danced and celebrated their life together.

The atmosphere at the Pub was bittersweet Sept. 30 as elected officials, community leaders, family, friends and colleagues gathered at the pub to announce a scholarship fund in Jonathan's name to benefit students at St. Mary’s High School in Manhasset, where he graduated in 2010.

Jonathan Diller, of Massapequa Park, was shot and killed in the line of duty on March 25 during a traffic stop in Far Rockaway, Queens. He is survived by Stephanie, their one-year-old son, Ryan, and other close family members.

“Jonathan is an American hero who sacrificed his life out of bravery and commitment to his job,” said Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “It’s only right that we come together to protect his family and honor his memory.”

Saladino announced the scholarship fund had been launched on Sept. 30, ensuring that Jonathan Diller will always be remembered. The fund will support young people pursuing careers in law enforcement and family members of those who have served in the field.

He emphasized that Diller exemplified the values of service, community, and respect, and wanted future students to have the same opportunities he had at St. Mary’s.

“We’re honored that Stephanie, and the Diller family chose us for this initiative,” said St. Mary’s High School Principal Gerard Buckley. “This is a moment where we can find light amidst the darkness.”

Matthew Panetta, Jonathan's former lacrosse coach and English teacher, remembered him as an “outgoing and athletic” student.

“This is a way for us to keep his name alive forever. He deserves it,” Panetta said. “The support we see today speaks to the kind of person Jonathan was.”

For Stephanie Diller, her husband left behind not just a beautiful son but also a legacy of strength.

“I’m incredibly grateful to continue my husband’s legacy,” she said. “He was giving and kind, and this scholarship will keep his spirit alive.”

Larry Weinberger, president of MGD Realty Investments, spearheaded the initiative and contributed the first $5,000 to launch the fund.

“This fund will create a lasting legacy for Detective Diller,” he said.

To further support the scholarship fund, Saladino announced a fundraising event at Mulcahy’s at 3232 Railroad Ave., Wantagh Nov. 20, at 6:30 p.m.

“We invite the public to help us reach our goal of $100,000,” he said, noting the event will feature the Joe Saladino Band and is for a vital cause.

For tickets to the fundraising event, visit muls.com/event/det-jonathan-diller-scholarship-fundraiser or call (516) 783-7500. For more information about the scholarship or to donate, visit tinyurl.com/dillerscholarshipfund.