We are thrilled to congratulate all of the honorees for their impressive achievements. The induction ceremony will take place on Wednesday, May 21st, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. Community members are encouraged to attend.
Captain Peter Crawford graduated from Farmingdale High School in 1968 and attended the School of Visual Arts. He served in the Vietnam War, which led to a career in law enforcement with the Alexandria Police Department in Virginia. He joined the Special Operations Team, engaging in high-risk operations while balancing family life. Captain Crawford served in the Juvenile Crimes Unit, became a Corporal, and later an instructor at the Northern Virginia Regional Police Academy. His bravery shone during a 1981 hostage situation, earning him the Department’s highest Valor Award and the Virginia Policeman of the Year Award, in addition to the Meritorious Service Award. He was promoted to Lieutenant, and, after the September 11 attacks, was deployed to the Pentagon and continued to serve with the Alexandria Police Department until his retirement in 2004. He worked with the U.S. Department of State, developing tactical training programs globally. He pioneered various initiatives in police management, including integrating paramedics into response teams and expanding K-9 units. It is with great honor and admiration that Captain Peter Crawford is inducted into the 2025 Wall of Fame, recognizing his exceptional service to law enforcement, his country, and his enduring impact on the safety and security of others.
Ms. Jennifer O’Neill, a 2013 graduate of Farmingdale High School, pursued her passion for dance at Long Island University, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Studies with honors. She fulfilled a lifelong dream by becoming an NFL cheerleader for the New York Jets. She has also trained and performed alongside top industry artists, including collaborations with the prestigious Alvin Ailey Studios. Ms. O’Neill became a featured pointe soloist in a television commercial and multiple marketing publications for Long Island University’s dance program. Her choreography was represented at the Northeast Conference of the American College Dance Festival for two years. Ms. O’Neill’s dance training began at Step By Step Dance Studio under the guidance of Sharon Dunphy Bartlett. Her passion continued to be cultivated at Farmingdale High School, where she was an integral member of the Dalerettes dance program, displaying remarkable leadership while serving as captain and choreographer. Ms. O’Neill took ownership of Step By Step Dance Studio in 2020 and runs the studio with a deep commitment to giving back to the community. She embodies the values of Daler Strong, Dalerkind, and the enduring spirit of “Once a Daler, Always a Daler.” It is with great pride that we announce Ms. Jennifer O’Neill as a 2025 Wall of Fame Inductee in recognition of her professional and artistic accomplishments, as well as her profound impact on the Farmingdale community.
Dr. Randee Bonagura’s journey began at Farmingdale High School, where she distinguished herself not only in academics but also in band and kickline. She earned her Doctorate of Education in Literary Studies at Hofstra University, and also obtained an administrative degree from the College of New Rochelle. Dr. Bonagura is a published author, adjunct professor, and a respected leader in the field of education, currently serving as an elementary principal in the Wantagh School District with over 30 years of experience in education. As a leading voice in the makerspace movement, she authored Embrace Makerspace: A Pocket Guide for Elementary School Administrators, a guide that has become essential reading for educational leaders looking to create enriching STEAM experiences for students. She is a speaker for the Little Free Library initiative, promoting literacy through her stewardship of a neighborhood library. She performs with the Farmingdale Village Pops, and she helped coordinate fundraising initiatives following the marching band bus accident in 2023. Her impactful TEDx presentation highlighted the spirit of giving that thrives within the Daler community, underscoring her unwavering dedication to making a meaningful difference. For her leadership in education, her contributions to the makerspace movement, and her lifelong dedication to the Farmingdale community, it is our great honor to induct Dr. Randee Bonagura into the Farmingdale Wall of Fame.