Wall of Fame

A number of years ago, Westhampton Beach School District established a Wall of Fame to honor former students, faculty members, and staff for extraordinary achievements in one or more of the following: academics, fine arts, school/community service, business, and public service. The Wall of Fame is located in the hall showcase of the district auditorium, and individual plaques commemorating member achievements are permanently affixed to the wall. Take note of the impressive collection of district alumni the next time you visit the district auditorium. For more information, please contact Wall of Fame Committee Chairperson and Athletic Director Kathy Masterson at (631) 288-3800.

The Wall of Fame Committee is currently accepting nominations. To nominate an individual for this distinguished honor, please fill out the application form below and return it to:

The Wall of Fame Committee, Attn: Kathy Masterson 
Westhampton Beach High School 
49 Lilac Road 
Westhampton Beach, NY 11978

Wall of Fame Nomination Form

WALL OF FAME COMMITTEE

2014-2015 HONOREES

MURIEL BEVIS - 1948

Muriel Bevis [″Breezy″] was a female outfielder and pitcher who played in an All-American Girls Professional Baseball League during the 1590 season. Muriel Bevis was one of 25 players who made the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League clubs hailed from New York City and State. Bevis grew up in Westhampton Beach and often found herself playing softball at Cedarhurst Stadium, where she was approached by a talent scout who offered her a contract to play in the AAGPBL. Bevis entered the league in 1950 with the Kenosha Comets, and was used at outfield and as an emergency pitcher. She was a steady performer during her only season, ranking between the top ten in home runs (5) runs batted in (43) and stolen bases (38), helping Kenosha reach the playoffs, though the team lost in the first round of post-season action. Bevis was a longtime resident of Kerrville, Texas, and later moved to Mount Juliet, Tennessee where she died at the age of 74.

Philip William Holbrook - Class of 1959

 Philip was born in Brooklyn, New York on March 24, 1941. He moved to Westhampton Beach in his early years, residing with his grandparents, who were the owners of the Moorland Hotel. Phil attended Westhampton Beach High School, participating in cross-country, baseball and band. He worked at the Moorland Hotel, Westhampton Beach HS and was a lifeguard at Rogers Beach. After graduation, Phil continued his education by attending SUNY at Cortland, with a 3 year interruption with the U.S. Army, Franklin and Marshall College, where he earned a Masters in Sedimentology and Penn State University where he earned a PhD. in geology. Phil worked in the oil industry for forty three years. He worked tirelessly to integrate geology, physics, and geomechanics to help the industry safely drill wells in challenging offshore environments. He researched the balance between the forces in the earth and pressure of the oil and gas. For years, the industry used Phil's correlations to help drill oil wells safely in the Gulf of Mexico, the North Sea, Australia and Southeast Asia. He was the author of many papers on geophysics and two books on Force Balance Physics. He was also the holder of four patents. Phil married Marie "Redsie" Farrar on August 21, 1965. They have two sons and five grandchildren. He loved science, being with his family, fast little cars, traveling and his Guinness and single malt scotch. Philip had a grand life!

2011 - 2012 HONOREES

EDWIN J. CARTOSKI - Class of 1942

Edwin J. Cartoski, WHB class of 1942, was a USMC pilot who saved hundreds of American servicemen during the Korean War. A true hero, Ed was awarded among others, the Distinguished Flying Cross with 1 gold star, the Air Medal with 5 gold stars, and the Presidential Unit Citation with 2 stars. After the war, Ed remained in the Marine reserves and retired as a Colonel in 1974. He became a test pilot for Grumman Aerospace in 1955. Ed flew the Sikorsky helicopter in “Flight Safety-Air Rescue” and upon his retirement in 1983 he was awarded the Flying “S” for 12 rescues. Over his career, Ed flew more than 181 different types of aircraft and amassed more than 17,000 hours of flight time. A dedicated eastern Long Island community member and a father of five children, Ed Cartoski co-founded the United Parents of Mercy and served as an active leader in the Polish Independent Club, the Loyal Order of Moose, the Elks Club and the V.F.W.

ROBERT ALAN RESLING – Class of 1963

Robert Alan Resling, WHB class of 1963, devoted his entire career to aviation. He graduated from the Air Force Academy in 1967, flew C-130’s throughout his military career and retired from the Air Force reserves in 1995 as a lieutenant colonel. During the Vietnam War, Bob flew tactical airlift and combat support missions in Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia interdicting North Vietnamese supply lines along the Ho Chi Minh trail and rescuing downed American fliers. Clearly a hero, Bob received many awards for his service and bravery including the Distinguished Flying Cross for Valor, Four Air Medals, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, the Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with Seven Battle Stars and the President Unit Citations. Inducted into the Colorado Aviation Hall of Fame in 2009, Bob served on many community boards, was a general partner in the Platte Valley Airport where he kept his T-28C airplane, and was employed as Vice President of Operations for Asia Pacific Airlines when he died in 2010.

JUDITH ZOEBELEIN, F.S.E. - Class of 1967

Judith Zoebelein, WHB Class of 1967, has dedicated her life of service to God and to the betterment of humankind. A member of the Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist since 1979, she has been working at the Vatican in Rome for more than 20 years where she founded the Vatican web site, held a variety of technology related positions and currently serves as the chief writer and researcher for the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue. The Council seeks to find common ground on challenging societal issues among religious sects. Sister Judith is fluent in seven languages and considers technology important in advancing knowledge and supporting spiritual needs. For her work, she was awarded the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice medal in 2011. Nominated by the Pope, this is the highest honor given to a woman by the Vatican. As a young woman, Judith Zoebelein, B.A., M.A., was a teacher who traveled the world twice and served in the U.S. Peace Corps in Thailand.

2010 - 2011 HONOREES

Steve Boone - Class of 1961

Born at Camp Leieune, N.C. on Sept. 23, 1943. After the war he attended five different schools culminating in his graduation from Westhampton Beach High School in 1961. His family has a long history in Westhampton Beach including owning the Howell House on Main Street. Having taken up guitar recovering from a serious auto accident in 1960, Steve was invited to join his brother Skip’s band the “Kingsmen” in 1962. Following a three-month motorcycle trip around Europe with best friend Peter Davey in 1964, he met up with John Sebastian and Zalman Yanovsky to form the electric jug band “The Lovin’ Spoonful”. They had their first hit record “Do You Believe in Magic” in 1965 followed by their next seven releases going into the top ten of the national music charts. Many appearances on the Ed Sullivan Show and virtually all of the other TV music shows came next. In 1966 their biggest hit “Summer in the City” co-written by Steve went to number 1 on the Hit Parade. Steve also co-wrote several of their other hits and by 1968 they suspended touring and pursued solo ventures. Steve produced a band “The Oxpetals” for Mercury Records and in 1971he bought a 56’ sailboat and moved to the Caribbean for 4 years of songwriting and relaxing. In 1973 returned to the States and opened a very successful recording studio in Baltimore, MD, Blue Seas.

In 1991 The Lovin’ Spoonful started touring again and in 2000 they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Steve Boone continues to this day touring with the Lovin’ Spoonful and is finishing up a book on his 50-year career as a musician.

Steve currently lives in St. Augustine, Florida with his wife, Lena, also a successful artist/musician. Two of his brothers, Charlie and Skip continue to live in Westhampton and their children and grandchildren attend or have attended local schools. 

James S. Bachman 

Mr. James Bachman was in active duty in the United States Air Force during the years 1942 – 1945. He is a graduate of Lebanon Valley College and Columbia University where he received his teaching degree.

Mr. Bachman taught music at Westhampton Beach School District from 1948 to 1960 and as High School Principal from 1960 to 1979. Mr. Bachman has been involved in band variety shows; summer concerts in Westhampton Beach Village as well as coached the Westhampton Beach tennis team and was involved in the design of the current high school building as well as the eight full-size tennis courts.

Mr. Bachman has dedicated many years of his time in the community as President of the Suffolk County Athletic Association; President of the Westhampton War Memorial Ambulance and Secretary/Treasurer of the Westhampton Beach Fire Department. 

Andrea Romano

Ms. Andrea Romano graduated with a BFA in Theatre Arts from the University of New York at Fredonia; Masters Program in Acting at Rutgers University. She has received eight Daytime Emmy Awards, the Peabody Award and Lifetime Achievement Award State University of New York.

Ms. Romano’s accomplishments throughout the years have been Casting Director for Hanna-Barbera Productions from 1984 to 1989 and a Voice Director for Disney TV in 1986 to 1992. From 1992 to present day, Ms. Romano has a colorful working experience as a Casting and Voice Director for MCA Home Video, Warner Brothers, Steven Spielberg, Film Roman, Universal Cartoon Studios/Home Video, Mainframe/Mattel, Universal, Nickelodeon, Sony Animation, Dreamworks and Cartoon Network. 

Ms. Romano is also involved with Interactive Games/CD Rom for Activision/Blizzard, Blizzard Ent., Warner Interactive, Interplay, Dreamworks Interactive, Visual Concepts, TerraGlyph, Conspiracy, Southpeak Interactive, American Software Corp., Dogbone Productions, Infograms, UK, Gryphon Software, Titus, Ubisoft and Sega Interactive.

2009 - 2010 HONOREES

Theodore O. "Dode" Hulse -Class of 1941

A member of the 1941 graduating class, Dode went on to study journalism at Lehigh University until he was drafted into the Armed Forces. He served from 1943 to 1946, and again during the Korean Conflict. He left the service at the rank of First Lieutenant. His life in politics began as a Trustee for the Village of Westhampton Beach. He went on to serve as Mayor of the village from 1968 to 1971 and as Supervisor of Southampton Town from 1972 to 1977. In addition to his political career, he was involved in many community and civic organizations. He served as chief of the Westhampton Beach Fire Department from 1961 to 1962, and was a Master of the Potunk Masonic Lodge, as well as the District Deputy Grand Master for Suffolk County. In his spare time, he was an avid collector and restorer of antique automobiles.

Dr. James J. Markowsky Assistant Secretary for Fossil Energy - Class of 1963

As Assistant Secretary for Fossil Energy, Dr. Markowsky serves as the primary policy advisor to the Energy Secretary and the department on issues involving federal coal, oil, and natural gas programs, including extensive research and development efforts in those areas. His responsibilities include management of the nation’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve, the Home Heating Oil Reserve, coordinating and implementing the Fossil Energy elements of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, and overseeing the Fossil Energy organization of over 1,000 scientists, engineers, technicians and administrative staff throughout the nation. He currently serves as Co-Chair of the White House Interagency Task Force on Carbon Capture and Storage.

Dr. Markowsky began his career with American Electric Power Service Corporation (AEP) in 1971 as a Senior Engineer in AEP’s Mechanical Division. In 1977, he was named Program Manager for AEP’s pressurized fluidized bed combustion development program. He was named head of the Mechanical Engineering Division and elected Assistant Vice President in 1984; Vice President – Mechanical Engineering in 1987; Senior Vice President and Chief Engineer in 1988; Executive Vice President – Engineering and Construction in 1993; and Executive Vice President – Power Generation in 1996 until 2000.

Most recently, Dr. Markowsky was a consultant to the energy and electric power generation industry, a member of the National Research Council’s Committee on America’s Energy Future, and a Member and Chair of the National Academy of Engineering’s Electric Power/Energy Systems Committee. From 2004-2005, Dr. Markowsky was the President of Research and Development Solution, LLC, where he was involved in providing technical support services, including R&D technology, project, and operations planning and analysis to FE’s National Energy Technology Laboratory.

Dr. Markowsky is the recipient of several awards including the Washington Coal Club’s Lifetime Achievement Award. He served as Adjunct Associate Professor at City College of New York from 1975-1977, and is the author of more than 25 publications on power generation and fossil energy.

Dr. Markowsky holds a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Pratt Institute, a master’s degree and doctorate in Mechanical Engineering from Cornell University, and a master’s degree in Industrial Management from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He is a graduate of Westhampton Beach High School, class of 1963.

2007 - 2008 HONOREE

Thomas Ulan, Class of 1967

Mr. Ulan was All-American in Track and Field at Rutgers University. He was an NCAA champion in the 440-yard run and still holds the Rutgers record in that distance.

At the World University Games in 1970 he was a member of the winning 4x400 meter relay and was the individual 400-meter champion.

Mr. Ulan was a member of the only Rutgers University National Championship team in the sprint medley relay. Additionally, he was ranked 9th in the world in the 400-meter event, and in the 1972 was an Olympic trial semi-finalist.

Mr. Ulan was teacher and coached high school cross country and track and field teams in the New Jersey public school system. He also served as an assistant coach of track and field at Rutgers and Georgetown Universities.

2006 - 2007 HONOREES 

Doreen Croser, Class of 1962

Doreen Croser is the first woman Executive Director of the American Association on Mental Retardation, which was established in 1876. She has dedicated her career to improving the quality of life for people with intellectual disabilities, and their families, by championing progressive politics, sound research, effective services, and universal human rights in the United States and throughout the world.

Ms. Crosser has authored numerous articles, and serves on a variety of National and State boards and committees, including the Governor's Disability Council in Maryland. Over the years, Ms. Crosser has held key leadership positions in disability services at state and local levels. She has a B.S. in Exceptional Education, an M.S. in Rehabilitation, and was elected "trailblazer" by her Westhampton Beach graduating class.

Dr. John Zuk, Class of 1956

Dr. John Zuk is a research scientist and engineer at the National Air and Space Administration (NASA) Ames Research Center at Moffett Field in Mountain View, California. His distinguished career in aeronautics and aviation spans the spectrum from being research principal investigator, to a program technical manager in both rotary and fixed wing aircraft.

Dr. Zuk was successful in advocating and planning a new Extreme Short Takeoff and Landing (ESTOL) aircraft research program to relieve airport congestion and increase airport capacity. He is a recognized authority on vertical and flight aircraft and is noted for his technical expertise in support of V22 Civil Tiltrotor technology. Dr. Zuk has authored and co-authored more than 50 technical papers and has been the recipient of many awards. He has a Ph.D. from Case Western Reserve, an M.S. from the University of Rochester, and a B.S. from Ohio State University.

2005 - 2006 HONOREES

Dr. Peter Brubaker, Class of 1980

After graduation from Westhampton Beach High School, Dr. Peter Brubaker received his undergraduate degree from East Stroudsburg University and his Masters degree from Wake Forest University. He received a Ph.D. from Temple University in 1991, specializing in Exercise Physiology/Cardiovascular Pathophysiology. He is currently the Executive Director of the Healthy Exercise and Lifestyle Program at Wake Forest University in North Carolina. He previously served as Director of the Wake Forest Cardiac Rehabilitation Program, and Departments of Medicine and Health/Exercise from 2000-2004. Dr. Brubaker has been published in numerous journals, including the American Journal of Cardiology, Journal of Cardio-PulmonaryRehabilitation, American Journal of Medicine and the British Journal of Sports Medicine.

Beecher Halsey, Jr., Class of 1940

Mr. Halsey attended the New York State Maritime Academy and graduated in 1942 as a licensed Deck Officer of vessels of unlimited weight. He served as Chief Mate on various freighters during World War II in all theatres of war. He served on the Westhampton Beach Village Planning Board for eight years during the 1960s, and served as Treasurer and Head Trustee of the Remsenburg-Speonk School District. Additionally, he also served on the Westhampton Beach School District Board of Education for 25 years. Rounding out his long list of achievements, Mr. Halsey was the first East End County Legislator, a position he held for three terms.

2003 - 2004 HONOREES

Lieutenant General Arthur C. Blades, Class of 1960

Lieutenant General Blades earned degrees from Villanova and Pepperdine University. He was a Platoon and Company Commander while serving in Vietnam and an Instructor Pilot of the Marine Helicopter Squadron, earning his promotion to Colonel in May 1985. Lieutenant General Blades has been awarded the Silver Star, Purple Heart, Navy Commendation, and Gold Star.

John Hart Ely, Class of 1956

Mr. Ely holds several degrees of educational distinction from higher learning institutions such as Princeton University, Yale Law School, London School of Economics, Harvard University, University of San Diego, and Illinois Institute of Technology. Mr. Ely served as Law Clerk to Chief Justice Warren in 1965, was a Professor at Yale and Harvard from 1971-1973, General Counsel in the United States Department of Transportation. He is currently a professor at Miami Law School, a position he has held since 1996. Author of three books, Mr. Ely is the fourth most frequently cited legal scholar in recent history.

Rear Admiral Andrew A. Granuzzo, Class of 1954

Mr. Granuzzo began his career in the United States Navy as an enlisted man in 1958. He was quickly promoted to the Naval Aviation Cadet Program in 1963 and served in an attack helicopter squadron while in Vietnam. Mr. Granuzzo commanded two large ships (the U.S.S. LINCOLN and the U.S.S. SAIPAN) and was promoted to Rear Admiral in 1991. As Commander of the Naval Safety Center, he introduced principles of risk management in Naval Operations, which led to fewer fatalities and injuries during his tenure. He has earned the Defense Superior Medal, Legion of Merit, Air Medal, Navy Commendation, and Vietnam Service Awards.

Dr. James Merle

Dr. Merle was a doctor in Westhampton Beach for more than 40 years. He overcame personal physical ailments while helping others throughout his career. His house calls, endearing personal approach to patients, and dedication to his profession are unparalleled in the East End. Dr. Merle's tremendous altruism and compassion led him to become a local legend and treasure.

Harold Williams

Mr. Williams was a teacher, coach, Athletic Director, and Principal in the Westhampton Beach School District for more than 30 years. He has been a member of the Westhampton Beach Fire Department for 22 years, and served as a Westhampton Beach Village Trustee for the last five years. Mr. Williams is also a Korean War Veteran.

2002 - 2003 HONOREES

Michael Ambrosino

Mr. Ambrosino is President and Executive Producer of his own production company and is affiliated with Boston's WGBH television. He originated the Nova Series for which he won the Peabody Prize. Mr. Ambrosino also received an Academy Award nomination for the Odyssey Series.

Lee Davis, Class of 1947

Mr. Davis spent two years in the Army during the Korean Conflict. After his tour of duty, he went on to Syracuse University where he received a BA in English with a minor in Theatre. He attended NYU and received an MA in English. Mr. Davis is a nationally known author, producer, and teacher and continues to offer his energy to ensure the arts remain a flourishing part of Westhampton Beach.

Sean Farrell, Class of 1976

Mr. Farrell was a four-year starter and All-American football player at Penn State and played 10 years in the National Football League for New England, Seattle, and Tampa Bay. While in high school, he was also an All-American discus thrower and holds a New York State Record in the event as well as placing third in national competition at the Golden West Track Meet.

Michael Forbes, Class of 1971

Currently President and Chief Executive Officer of PR/Strategies International, LLC. Mr. Forbes served as a former 3-term member of the United States House of Representatives. While serving as U.S. Congressman, he was a strong advocate for the people of New York State, particularly the East End. He is a staunch supporter of all community activities in Westhampton Beach.

Carl H. Hansen

Mr. Hansen was a successful Coach, Athletic Director, Principal, and Superintendent during his career at Westhampton Beach School District. During his tenure, he served as President of the New York State Athletic Association. Nicknamed "The Wonder Man" because of yearly successes, Mr. Hansen is one of the founding fathers of Suffolk County Athletics. The Westhampton Beach High School football field and Outstanding High School Player in Suffolk County are awards named in his honor.

Dan Jiggets, Class of 1972

Mr. Jiggets was a two-time First Team All-Ivy selection at tackle. In 1975, he was captain of Harvard's first undisputed Ivy League Championship Football Team. Mr. Jiggets was also named to the Ivy League's Silver Anniversary All-Star Football Team in 1981. In addition, Mr. Jiggets was a standout in the shot, weight and discus for the Harvard Track and Field Team. He played 10 years in the National Football League for the Chicago Bears. Mr. Jiggets is currently a football analyst on CBS television during National Football League games and hosts a successful radio show in the Chicago area.

Joseph Swerdzewski, Class of 1967

Mr. Swerdzewski is President/CEO of FPMI Communications and a well-known expert in the field of labor management relations. He was the first person to be appointed to a second term under President Clinton, serving as General Counsel of the Federal Labor Relations Authority from 1993-2001.