Levittown Superintendent of Schools Dr. Tonie McDonald and Board of Education vice president Peggy Marenghi both received a 2016 Women of Distinction Award bestowed by the New York State Assembly’s 17th District during a ceremony held at the Farmingdale Public Library on Aug. 13. The annual award honors women who contribute to their community in the areas of business, education, military, community affairs, healthcare, government and volunteerism.
A lifelong Levittown resident, McDonald began her educational career as a teacher in the Levittown School District. Currently serving as the district’s superintendent of schools, McDonald has held numerous positions within the district, including director of pupil personnel services and assistant superintendent for business and finance. In addition, McDonald recently received the Hofstra George M. Estabrook Alumni Association Distinguished Service Award and the Nassau County Legislature’s 2016 Trailblazer Award.
Also a lifelong Levittown resident, Marenghi has served as a school district trustee since 2009. She recently retired from her longtime position as principal of the New Hyde Park Road School in New Hyde Park, N.Y. Marenghi is also a member of the American Red Cross, an organization with which she has participated in disaster relief efforts during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Superstorm Sandy and Sept. 11, 2001.
Marenghi said she is honored to have been recognized for her efforts in the community. “I was excited to be honored and look forward to continuing my work in the Levittown community,” she said.
