Valley Stream, NY (October 2021)—In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, Nassau County’s Office of Hispanic Affairs hosted a celebration of the diverse cultures and contributions of Hispanics in Nassau County on Friday, October 15. Dr. John Frias, Principal of Wheeler Avenue Elementary School of the Valley Stream Union Free School District Thirteen, was honored for his contributions as an educator.
“I was honored and humbled to be selected for this recognition. What made it special was knowing members of my school community decided to put my name in the running for this honor,” said Dr. Frias. “It was great to see so many distinguished members of the Nassau County Hispanic community recognized for their leadership and their work in the community.”
The public was invited to nominate a Hispanic American resident who they believed has contributed and made a significant difference in Nassau County. There were five categories of nominees: Educator Award, Rising Star Award, Business Excellence, Hero Award, and Community Advocate. The nominees were evaluated by the Nassau County Office of Hispanic Affairs Cultural Planning Committee. The selected honorees were recognized at the Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration.
“Nassau County is proud to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by honoring the achievements and contributions Hispanic-Americans have made in Nassau County. The Nassau County Office of Hispanic Affairs is proud to recognize Dr. John Frias as one of our distinguished honorees,” said Amy Flores, the Executive Director of the Nassau County Office of Hispanic Affairs. “This award is given to educators who foster creativity, instill a love of learning, and motivate all students to succeed.”
Ms. Flores and Laura Curran, the Nassau County Executive, presented Dr. Frias with a Nassau County citation extolling his contributions to the county and his dedication to his students in the Valley Stream UFSD Thirteen.
Ms. Milagros Vicente, a member of the Valley Stream UFSD 13 Board of Education and a member of the Office of Hispanic Affairs Advisory Board noted, “It was an honor to see Dr. Frias receive an honor during the Nassau County Hispanic Heritage Month. Our community is fortunate to have such a great principal leading one of our District’s schools and a great example of leadership for our Hispanic community.”