Glen Cove Arts Organization Unveils Fourth Leaf on “Tree of Inspiration” Sculpture and Makes a Donation to the Glen Cove High School Arts Program

FAME GC (Friends of Arts & Music Enrichment GC, Inc.), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting music and arts education, is thrilled to share details about a significant event that took place at Glen Cove High School (GCHS). On November 29th FAME GC added a fourth leaf to its “Tree of Inspiration” sculpture, dedicated to the beloved art teacher Albert V. (“AJ”) Johnson. FAME GC also made a generous donation to the Glen Cove High School Arts Program, which included 5 pottery wheels, a class set of slab rolling mats, and 1/4-inch dowels for slab rolling. High school art teacher Maria Verni expressed her enthusiasm, noting that this equipment provided a substantial boost in revitalizing the Ceramics program by replacing some outdated tools. At the commencement of this dedication directed by Mr. Nobile, the high school drumline delivered a captivating performance.

The Tree of Inspiration, commissioned by FAME GC in 2022, stands as a permanent art installation celebrating exceptional educators within the Glen Cove City Public School District. The unveiling event marked the addition of a fourth artisanal leaf, paying tribute to AJ Johnson alongside previously honored teachers Sally A. Zwiebach, Thom Ruckert, and Dale Alan Zurbrick.

These distinguished educators, recognized for their innovative and creative approaches, continue to inspire students, teachers, administrators, and community members through this symbolic representation of their impact. Each handcrafted leaf features a photo and a memorable quote or key lesson from the honored instructor.

"FAME GC celebrates Glen Cove High School’s arts educators who made a lasting impact on their students,” said Judith H. Germano, FAME GC Co-Founder and Board President. “We look forward to expanding the Tree of Inspiration and contributing to the development of the rising stars in our community for years to come."

FAME GC remains committed to fostering arts education, providing financial support, and creating opportunities for students in the Glen Cove community. The organization's annual scholarships are open to graduating seniors at Glen Cove High School, with applications for the 2023-2024 scholarships available starting in January 2024 on the FAMEGC.org website. 

For more information about FAME GC, its initiatives, and how to support the organization, please visit www.famegc.org. For more information about the Glen Cove City School District, visit the district’s official website at www.glencoveschools.org and follow their Facebook page @glencovecityschools

 

Left to right: Honored teacher Sally Zwiebach, FameGC Treasurer Mark Kohn (back), President Judith Germano, Vice President Beth Corets, Creative Director Valerie Lasser,  GCHS art students Vanessa Benitez, Mohit Koli, Kirianna Delvalle, GCHS art teacher Maria Verni, District Coordinator of Fine and Performing Arts Lawrence Nadel. 

Tree of Inspiration

GCHS art students Vanessa Benitez, Mohit Koli, Kirianna Delvalle, GCHS art teacher Maria Verni, District Coordinator of Fine and Performing Arts Lawrence Nadel, Superintendent Maria L. Rianna.

GCHS Drumline musicians