Kiley Barch & Lily Wasoski Tapped for LI Art Awards

The Long Island Arts Alliance and Newsday have named Huntington High School seniors Kiley Barch and Lily Wasoski as 2026 art award recipients. Only 20 students are named Scholar Artists and just 20 more are tapped as Merit Award winners. The awards cover Nassau and Suffolk counties.

“I am thrilled to share this great news,” said Dr. Robert J. Wottawa II, district director of fine and performing arts. “These accomplishments are a testament to our collaborative approach to teaching and learning and how we engage our artists and performers in a multitude of opportunities.”

Ms. Wasoski received a Merit Award within the discipline of theater. She has worked very closely with drama club advisor Michael Schwendemann. “This specific achievement brings together acting, singing, movement, and expression and reflects all the work that our performing arts and theater team represents,” Dr. Wottawa said.

Ms. Barch was named a Scholar Artist in the area of media arts. “This is a wonderful example of how our passion for the arts and teaching impacts lives; it takes a tremendous team of artists to lead students to success,” Dr. Wottawa said.

“It is such an honor to be recognized by the Long Island Arts Alliance for the work I’ve put into both my education in the arts as well as school,” Ms. Wasoski said. “Being so involved with the music department at both Huntington, but also outside of high school can be very time consuming and draining, but I’ve worked hard to dedicate my effort to my education at school as well. I’m deeply grateful for this opportunity, especially since I wouldn’t be recognized for this award if Mr. Schwendemann didn’t believe that I could have received it. I’m so ecstatic to be receiving such a high honor!”

Ms. Barch earned the award after submitting an outstanding photography portfolio and a compelling written essay, both of which showcased her creativity, technical skills, and ability to use art as a form of expression. Her portfolio highlighted not only her eye for composition and light but also her thoughtful exploration of themes that connect deeply with viewers.

Throughout the process the teenager worked closely with Huntington High School photography teacher Pamela Piffard, who guided her in refining her portfolio and encouraged her to push her ideas further.

“Kiley’s work is a perfect balance of technical mastery and artistic vision,” Mrs. Piffard noted. “She is deeply thoughtful in her approach to photography and is constantly striving to tell stories through her images. This recognition is so well deserved.”

“Art has always been a constant in my life,” Ms. Barch said. “Ballet was my first introduction to creative expression, however photography at Huntington allowed me to explore a new medium. Starting with darkroom photography freshman year, I honed technical skills that helped me tremendously in Advanced and AP Photo. I’m especially grateful to Mrs. Piffard, who created a space where every student was encouraged to discover and develop their own artistic voice. My experience in Huntington has been a fulfilling one. It has helped me grow as an entire person.”

The LI Arts Alliance said “these students exemplify the dedication and creativity that come from pursuing excellence in both academics and the arts. The Scholar Artist program highlights how the arts are an essential part of a well-rounded education, developing critical thinking, collaboration and a deeper sense of community.”