Sachem Educators Honored with ALS Ride for Life Unsung Hero Award

The Sachem Central School District is celebrating two educators whose dedication to service, leadership and community impact has touched countless lives over the past decade.

Sachem East teachers and Student Government co-advisors Damon Gallo and Michael Jannace were recently presented with the Christine Pendergast Unsung Hero Award during the ALS Ride for Life’s 2026 Annual Honoree Recognition Benefit. The award recognizes individuals whose unwavering commitment to the ALS community has helped advance awareness, advocacy and fundraising efforts in the fight against amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

The recognition serves as a testament to Gallo and Jannace’s long-standing partnership with ALS Ride for Life and their commitment to empowering students to make a difference beyond the classroom. For more than 10 years, the pair have organized and supported fundraising initiatives, educational programs and awareness campaigns that have generated critical support for the organization’s mission.

Their journey began through a connection fostered by former Sachem East valedictorian and Student Government president Mackenzie Szlosek, who introduced ALS Ride for Life to the school community during her freshman year. Since then, Gallo and Jannace have helped build a lasting relationship with the organization and its founder, the late Chris Pendergast, inspiring generations of Sachem students to become advocates for those affected by ALS.

Gallo and Jannace accepted the award alongside Szlosek, highlighting the enduring impact of student leadership and community engagement. The honor was presented before a gathering of ALS Ride for Life supporters, patients, families and advocates, underscoring the significance of their contributions to the organization and the wider ALS community.

As educators and advisors, Gallo and Jannace have consistently championed initiatives that develop leadership skills, strengthen school spirit and encourage civic responsibility. Through their work with Student Government, they have created opportunities for students to give back while learning the value of compassion, service and advocacy.

Their efforts have not only helped raise thousands of dollars for ALS-related causes but have also ensured that awareness of the disease remains a meaningful part of the Sachem community. By continuing the work started alongside Chris Pendergast, they have helped keep alive a mission centered on hope, support and the pursuit of a cure.

The Christine Pendergast Unsung Hero Award recognizes individuals whose actions often take place behind the scenes but whose impact is felt throughout the community. For Gallo and Jannace, the honor reflects years of selfless service and a commitment that exemplifies Sachem’s motto, Sans Egal — without equal.