Jaipreet Singh Captures Robert Buchanan Award

Huntington Class of 2026 salutatorian Jaipreet Singh is this year’s recipient of the Robert Buchanan Award. He plans to study mechanical engineering at Rochester Institute of Technology.

“The key to my success has been always striving to improve and learning from the challenges I face,” Mr. Singh said. “Determination and perseverance have helped me push through obstacles and continue working towards my goals. I am also grateful for the support of my family, teachers, and mentors who have encouraged and guided me along the way. I have most enjoyed the opportunities to challenge myself academically and grow as a student. Being involved in the Huntington Blue Devil marching band and Huntington Robotics has been especially meaningful, allowing me to collaborate with others, solve problems, and be part of dedicated teams. Most importantly, I have valued the friendships and connections I've built with my classmates, teachers, and mentors along the way.”

Even after 67 years, Mr. Buchanan’s fellow Class of 1959 members who are still living remain fiercely loyal and devoted to their fallen classmate. An award in his memory is presented annually to the salutatorian of the graduating class.

A resident of Halesite, Mr. Buchanan was one of three senior boys who was riding in a small foreign sports car that crashed into a large tree on the east side of Oakwood Road late in the afternoon on Monday, April 13, 1959 not far from what was then a brand new Huntington High School.

Riding in the passenger seat, Mr. Buchanan was the most seriously injured of the three boys as he sustained a fractured skull, broken leg and internal injuries. The driver of the car was the school newspaper editor. He suffered two broken legs and was also listed in critical condition. The third student was in the back seat of the car. He suffered multiple contusions.

The car went into a skid, leaving marks on the roadway that stretched 188 feet. Mr. Buchanan never regained consciousness and passed away on Saturday, May 2, 1959. A funeral service was held at Central Presbyterian Church on Main Street. Interment was at Wallkill Valley Cemetery in Wallkill, New York.