Monroe-Woodbury Central School District proudly announces the Class of 2025 for its inaugural Hall of Distinction (HOD). The Hall of Distinction celebrates the district’s rich heritage and honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the school community, as well as distinguished alumni who have achieved excellence in their respective fields.
Nominations were accepted in two categories: Contributor—individuals who have supported MWCSD athletics, arts, or academics for at least five years; and Alumni—graduates who have achieved notable success, made meaningful contributions to society, or brought distinction to their alma mater through their accomplishments. A committee consisting of school community members and staff selected the following individuals as the first-ever HOD inductees.
Congratulations to:
Noreen Farrell, Alumna: Noreen Farrell is a 1987 Monroe-Woodbury graduate whose academic, athletic and leadership excellence began as a state champion runner and highly-involved student and continued through Yale University and Hastings Law School. She is a nationally recognized civil rights leader, serving as Executive Director of Equal Rights Advocates and President and CEO of its Action Fund, where she champions gender, racial and economic justice. Noreen has led groundbreaking litigation, policy reform and national campaigns that have resulted in transformative laws improving pay equity, family leave and workplace protections for tens of millions of workers. Widely published, honored and featured in major media outlets, she is both an influential advocate for social justice and a deeply committed family and community member.
Steven Fischbein, Contributor & Alumnus: Steve Fischbein is a distinguished Monroe-Woodbury alumnus, educator and legendary wrestling coach whose impact spans decades. A former Section 9 champion and NYS medalist, he returned to Monroe-Woodbury as a physical education teacher and Head Varsity Wrestling Coach, leading two NYS championship teams and developing dozens of state champions, medalists and Division I athletes. His excellence has been recognized with induction into the NYS and National Wrestling Coaches Hall of Fame.
Andy Grammer, Alumnus: Andy Grammer is a 2001 Monroe-Woodbury alumnus who was raised in a musical family to become a globally recognized, multiplatinum singer-songwriter known for music rooted in hope, resilience and positivity. From busking on the streets of Santa Monica to chart-topping hits like “Keep Your Head Up” and “Don’t Give Up on Me,” his work has inspired millions while raising awareness for critical causes such as cystic fibrosis and mental health. An Emmy Award winner and widely honored artist, Andy has used his platform to give back, donating over $500,000 to music education in underfunded schools through the Andy Grammer Foundation. His career exemplifies how talent, perseverance and compassion can create both artistic success and meaningful social impact.
Lou Hall, Contributor: Coach Lou Hall, a longtime Monroe-Woodbury educator, dedicated his career from the mid-1960s until 2001 to teaching physical education and coaching multiple sports, including basketball, cross country, and track and field. He led teams to county, sectional, state and national championships while emphasizing life lessons in work ethic, perseverance and character, impacting countless athletes beyond their athletic achievements. Known for his personal care and mentorship, Coach Hall influenced students on and off the field, guiding them through both sports and life’s challenges. His legacy is remembered not only for victories, but for the profound, lasting connections he built with every student he coached.
Jonathan Huberth, Contributor: Jon Huberth dedicated 15 years to the Monroe-Woodbury Board of Education, including seven as President, where he led with integrity, collaboration and an unwavering commitment to students and families. Respected for his honesty, fairness and thoughtful leadership, he helped guide meaningful policy decisions that strengthened the district for years to come. Beyond public service, Jon was an accomplished artist and educator—an Amherst College and Yale School of Drama graduate—whose work in theater, film and education raised over $8 billion for educational and conservation causes. Remembered for his warmth, humor and principled leadership, his legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of the Monroe-Woodbury community.
Ronald Johnson, Contributor: Ron Johnson served the Monroe-Woodbury School District from 1969 to 2004, leaving a lasting legacy as a music educator, mentor and leader whose influence lives on through generations of students and colleagues. As head of the high school music department, he created safe, welcoming spaces where students felt seen, supported and challenged to be their authentic selves. Ron taught far more than music—he instilled integrity, self-belief, compassion and confidence, helping countless individuals find their voice both on and off the stage. Known for his humanity, warmth and quiet wisdom, his impact continues through the thousands of lives he touched.
Anthony Sorrentino, Contributor: Dr. Anthony Sorrentino dedicated 35 years to Monroe-Woodbury Central School District as a teacher, coach, administrator and community mentor, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students. Beginning as an eighth-grade Earth Science teacher, he developed the district’s curriculum, brought lessons to life through field experiences, and pioneered the integration of technology in education in his role as Monroe-Woodbury’s first Director of Computer Instruction. Beyond the classroom, he coached sports, led adult education programs, authored textbooks, and shared his passion for learning with the broader community. Dr. Sorrentino’s lifelong commitment to curiosity, education and mentorship exemplifies the qualities of a true educator and community contributor.
John Trautmann, Alumnus: John Trautmann, a 1986 Monroe-Woodbury graduate, was a record-breaking distance runner who dominated county, section and state competitions, famously breaking Steve Prefontaine’s national high school 3000m record at the 1986 Penn Relays. He continued his success at Georgetown University, anchoring a world-record Distance Medley Relay team, and went on to win the 5000m at the 1992 U.S. Olympic Trials, representing the United States at the Barcelona Olympics. Later, he set a world record for men over 45 in the 1500m and now shares his expertise as an assistant coach at NYU and with the Empire Elite Track Club. Mr. Trautmann’s athletic career exemplifies exceptional talent, perseverance, and a lifelong commitment to excellence.
The inaugural class will be honored at an Induction Ceremony and Hall of Distinction display unveiling on Thursday, February 5, 2025. A permanent HOD interactive exhibit honoring inductees will be located in the main lobby of Monroe-Woodbury High School, 155 Dunderberg Road, Central Valley, NY.
For more information, visit the HOD web pages: https://www.mw.k12.ny.us/page/hall-of-distinction.