About Us

The Hilton Alumni Association began in 2022 as a response to a small group of alumni who wanted to give back to a district that had given them such a great start. Little did we know that this organization would spark the same response from other alumni and the community.

Our purpose is to connect alumni, educators, and the community in service to today’s students. And thanks to the generosity of each of these groups we have been able to raise funds for grants and scholarships totaling $17,000 since our beginning awarding over $10,000 in grants and over $2000 in scholarships. We hold a minimum of two major fundraisers each year with a Fall Raffle and a Spring Casino Night.

As a 50l c 3, nonprofit incorporated charity, we operate under state-approved Bylaws with a volunteer board of alumni as well as several volunteer committees. Pure sweat equity keeps this organization going and the results encourage more and more alumni and friends of HCS to become involved. The satisfaction we receive from grateful students and educators tells us we are offering a much-needed service. We would love for you to become a part of this growing community of dedicated alumni who are making a difference in the lives of students.

Annual Report for 2022-2023

Learn more about the Hilton Alumni Association from the HCSD podcast, Cadet Chat with Superintendent Dr. Casey Kosiorek

Our Mission

To build connections among Hilton graduates and provide educational enhancements for students in Hilton’s schools today.

Board of Directors

  • Debbie Schrader Montrallo

    Class of  ‘73
    University of Rochester ‘96
    SUNY Brockport ‘00
    Hilton CSD Social Studies Teacher ‘98-’22

    Some of my most unforgettable memories are connected to Hilton High School both as a student and social studies teacher. It was here that I forged lifelong friendships, shared my desire for learning, challenged students to view the world from different perspectives through respectful dialogue grounded in evidence. And, ultimately, to serve among the many dedicated colleagues and outstanding students was truly a privilege.  

    Married with 3 children and 3 grandchildren
    Owner, Casuallure LLC

    ____
    “It is my honor to champion educational opportunities for HCS students, support teachers in the classroom, connect with alumni and the community.”

  • Karen Hermance

    Hilton High School ‘74

    I retired from Eastman Kodak in 2019 after 40 years of service where I managed between 40 and 90 operations staff throughout my career.  Currently, I serve as the President of the Edelman-Gardner Cancer Research Foundation, a registered 501 (c) organization with a board of nine members. Through grassroots fundraising, we have contributed $ 1.5 million to the Wilmot Cancer Institute for cancer research projects.   In that capacity I work with committees and advise on fundraising activities, develop ways to communicate to our supporters the status of where their money is going, work with the Board on Marketing and Branding opportunities for our Foundation and work with our Finance Director on planning out the current year vs. the following year.  Among other things I have served at the Wilmot Cancer Institute as Co-Chair for the Community Cancer Action Council (CCAC) for four years, focusing on community education, screening, and increasing enrollment in clinical trials. In that role, I developed projects, collaborated with staff to organize activities, and tracked results.
    ____
    ”The Hilton Community is the reason our Foundation has achieved great success. I would be honored to share my experiences and give back to the community as a member of the Hilton Alumni Association”

  • Bonnie A. Lupo, MS, FNP-BC

    Hilton High School ‘83
    Alfred thru St. John Fisher ‘87
    St. John Fisher College ’97 & ‘98

    Nurse Practitioner, Owner and Principal – Pathways Forward Consulting, LLC

    I became a Nurse Practitioner following my initial RN career and graduated with a Masters in Managed Care of High-Risk Populations and Post Family Nurse Practitioner from St. John Fisher College. I worked several years in the private sector and at the National Program Office Veterans Administration Office of Community Care.

    Currently, I am Owner and Principal of Pathways Forward Consulting, LLC

    I am married to John A. Barnes – Hilton HS Class of ’83 and reside in Hilton

    ____
    "My time at Hilton had been incredibly rewarding and the guidance and support from my teachers and friends have been instrumental in shaping the person I am today. "

    "As an Alumni, my goal is to emulate the supportive environment I experienced and to champion the power of community and mutual support. I firmly believe that no one can navigate life's journey alone. Together, we have the ability to create lasting positive change within our community and beyond."

  • Joey Dean Danzig

    Hilton Class of ‘95

    After leaving Hilton Central, I received my Bachelors of Science from RIT where I also graduated with a Masters of Science- Health Systems Administrator from RIT Class of 2011.
    In 2015 I received my Nursing Home Administrators License.

    Currently, I am the owner of a lighting showroom called Illuminating Expressions Distribution on
    W Ridge Rd.

    I am married to Steve Danzig (‘95) with two children who also are Hilton Alumni
    (Erika ’19 and Luke ’21).

    ____
    “Being part of this organization will allow me to bring I a lot of my life experiences in recruitment, fundraising, hosting events. I have worked with the Hilton schools in the past and feel that I can bring in more alumni and “friends of alumni” to participate on this board so we can help future alumni receive great experiences in their futures.”

  • Liz McKernan Graupman

    Hilton High School ‘88
    SUNY Brockport in ‘92

    I moved to Hilton from Niagara County in 1983 and graduated from Hilton High School in 1988. From there, I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from SUNY Brockport in 1992. Since then, my career has centered around sales and marketing.

    I am an Events Manager and in my downtime, you’ll find me making jewelry, crafts and gardening.

    The last 25 years, I’ve lived in Cleveland, Annapolis, and all over the Rochester area, but settled in Hilton because it’s always been home. I believe in showing up for the community that helped raise you, it’s small efforts that build something lasting.
    ____
    ”My superpower? I bring people together. I’m a people person, a problem solver, and someone who thrives in the middle of chaos with my eyes on the big picture. I can rally support, brainstorm ideas, and use team work to get things done. I believe I bring a unique perspective having lived in different communities and would be a strong addition to the Hilton Alumni Association Board.”

  • Terri Blackburn

    Class of 1981

    SUNY Brockport BA 1985, MS 1993

    I am a proud 1981 graduate of Hilton Central School and a 1985 graduate of SUNY Brockport, where I earned my Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Anthropology. I completed my Master's degree in Reading in 1993.

    I spent 31 years teaching elementary school in Hilton and I continue to substitute teach today. I love teaching, but I also love being able to give back to the students, teachers, and families of the Hilton community.

    I am the proud mom of two Hilton graduates: Jordan 2010 and Jess 2011 and am married to Kevin a 1977 graduate.

    In my spare time, I enjoy reading, gardening, golfing, and spending time with my kids and grandkids.

    "I like making sure all our ducks are in a row — that's how I ran my kindergarten class. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail."

  • Tera Strauss

    Hilton High School ‘92,

    As a proud 1992 graduate of the Hilton Central School District, I have always carried with me a deep appreciation for the education, values, and sense of community that Hilton instilled in me. My career in education began in the very halls where my own journey started—Village Elementary School—where I served first as a teaching assistant, then as a special education teacher and elementary educator. Driven by a passion for instructional leadership, I pursued certifications as both a School Building Leader and School District Leader.

    Over the years, I’ve held various leadership positions across Monroe County, including Assistant Principal and Principal at Monroe One BOCES, Principal in the East Irondequoit Central School District, and currently, Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Programs at Monroe One BOCES. These roles have allowed me to develop deep experience in organizational leadership, community engagement, program development, and strategic planning.

    Hilton is more than just my hometown—it is the foundation of my family and career. My husband and I are both Hilton graduates, and all four of our daughters have proudly graduated from Hilton as well. My mother, a dedicated Hilton educator for over 32 years, modeled the spirit of service and lifelong learning that continues to guide me today.

    As a board member of the Hilton Alumni Association, I would bring a collaborative leadership style, strong communication skills, and a strategic mindset shaped by years of educational and administrative experience. I am highly organized, mission-driven, and committed to inclusivity—skills essential for engaging alumni, building meaningful connections, and supporting outreach initiatives that reflect the values of Hilton. I understand the importance of honoring the district’s legacy while also fostering a vision that supports future alumni.
    ____
    “I would be honored to serve and give back to the district and community that shaped who I am, and to help strengthen connections between past, present, and future Cadets.”

  • Jon Strauss

    Class of 1991

    Iam a lifelong resident of Hilton and a proud 1991 graduate of the Hilton Central School District. My connection to the community runs deep; my wife and I raised four daughters, all of whom graduated from Hilton, making this district an important part of our family’s story.

    My career path was influenced by my experience in Ron Hidmarch’s visual communication class while at Hilton High School, which sparked my interest in graphic arts & printing.  I went on to earn a degree in Graphic Arts /Visual Communication and Printing from Monroe Community College and currently work in the printing industry with Flower City Group, where I've been employed for the last 30 years.

    Over the years, I have stayed closely connected to the Hilton community through my daughters’ involvement in athletics. I have been an active member in the past with the Hilton Heat Soccer Club and the Hilton Girls Soccer Boosters. As a sports dad, I regularly volunteered where needed; on the sidelines, in concessions, and supporting the programs in any way I could.

    “Hilton has played such an important role in shaping who I am and in providing opportunities for my family. I am committed to giving back to the community that has given so much to me, and I would be honored to serve on the Hilton Alumni Association to help continue that tradition of pride, connection, and support for future generations.”

  • Zachary Lemcke

    Hilton High School ‘02

    Empire State College 2018 & 2019

    Senior Supply Chain specialist, volunteer and world traveler

    After graduating from Hilton High School in 2002, I attended SUNY Geneseo for two years before deciding to enter the workforce and begin building my professional career.

    Over the past 20 years, I have gained experience across a diverse range of industries, including label printing, food manufacturing, battery recycling and processing, and pharmaceuticals. These opportunities have allowed me to develop a broad skill set and strong operational expertise.

    Today, I serve as a Senior Demand Planner for a pharmaceutical company, where I focus on forecasting, supply planning, and supporting business operations.

    I have also been actively involved in community service, serving on the board of a Rochester-area nonprofit organization for the past seven years. During that time, I have contributed to several committees, including Accessibility and Public Information/Cooperation with the Professional Community. In addition, I have participated in multiple ad hoc initiatives involving bylaw revisions, policy development, and budget planning.

    Outside of work and volunteer service, I enjoy traveling and have had the opportunity to visit destinations around the world. Yosemite National Park is my favorite place in the United States, while Finland and Antarctica share the distinction of being my favorite international destinations.

    “The Hilton community has always held a special place in my life. I come from a large family, many of whom were born, raised, and continue to reside in Hilton. I am also fortunate to maintain close friendships that began during my school years—some spanning more than 35 years—which has strengthened my connection to the community and its residents.”

At-Large

  • Kristen Paolini

    Greece Athena High School ‘98

    Hilton Central School District Assistant Superintendent for Instruction
    ____
    ”The Hilton Central School district values the partnership with our alumni. Serving on the board allows me to collaborate with a diverse group of individuals working together to support our Hilton learning community.”

  • Ed Mascadri

    Hilton High School ‘96
    St. John Fisher College ‘00

    School Administrator in the RCSD
    ____
    ”Growing up and living in the Hilton community for over 40 years has been rewarding for my family and I. Being afforded the opportunity to give back to Hilton and serving the community is an honor. ”

  • Josh Jensen

    Hilton High School ‘06
    Niagara University ‘10

    NYS Assemblyman - 134th District
    Wife - Casey
    Children - Brendan and Margot
    ____
    “My time in the Hilton Central School District truly shaped me into the person I am today, and I would not have had the opportunity, or ability, to serve my community if it weren't for the education I received at Hilton. To be a member of an organization that connects that past with the promise of tomorrow's future in the support of the Cadets of today and tomorrow is something that I wholeheartedly want to be a part of.”