Hempstead for Hofstra/Hofstra for Hempstead Scholarship Dinner

The Hempstead for Hofstra/Hofstra for Hempstead Scholarship Dinner began 45 years ago to raise funds for deserving students from the Village of Hempstead to attend Hofstra University. 

Since its inaugural event, hundreds of young men and women have benefited from the scholarship money raised by these dinners. The Hempstead for Hofstra/Hofstra for Hempstead event also strengthens the bond between the Village of Hempstead and Hofstra University. The evening includes the annual presentation of the prestigious Unispan Award to individuals whose professional or personal lives have enriched the Hempstead community. The Unispan Award, named for the original pedestrian bridge over Hempstead Turnpike that unites Hofstra’s north and south campuses, symbolizes the close ties between the University and the Village of Hempstead.

This year’s Unispan Award recipients are:

Rev. Malcolm J. Byrd – Pastor, Jackson Memorial AME Zion Church

Shirley A. Cunningham – School Crossing Guard, Hempstead Police Department

Mateo Flores – Director, Hempstead Economic Opportunity Commission of Nassau County

Brigadier General Omuso D. George – U.S. Army, Hempstead High School valedictorian ‘87

Rev. Dr. Evelyn Miller-Suber – Pastor, First Hempstead AME Church

Angel A. Perez – Director of Fine Arts, Music and Library Media, Hempstead Union Free School District

Frederick V. Sandas Jr. – Chief, Hempstead Fire Department

Lisa Smith – Retired Correctional Officer, Hempstead High School ‘83

Henry Holley Sr. will receive the Tyree Curry Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes exceptional contributions, distinguished service, and the spirit of volunteerism within the Hempstead community. A successful entrepreneur, Mr. Holley’s businesses have included Hempstead Transportation Service and the consulting firm The Holley Group. He is a former board member of the Long Island Association and a past president of 100 Black Men of Long Island Inc.

Attire is black tie optional.