NATIONAL CENTER FOR SUBURBAN STUDIES
Annual event recognizing the importance of embracing the diversity reshaping our communities. The celebration brings together hundreds of civic, business, educational, human services, and community leaders to honor individuals making a positive impact in our inclusive suburbs and to support scholarships, research, and community partnerships.
Event Details | Monday, November 16, 2026
Crest Hollow Country Club, Woodbury, New York
Honoring Peter Florey, Owner and Co-Founder, D&F Development Group, who will deliver the keynote address, along with 2026 Honorees Claudia M. Boyle, MS, LMHC, Chief Executive Officer, Hispanic Counseling Center; Rashid Walker, Founder & CEO, First Street Companies and Dr. Meena Bose, Executive Dean, Peter S. Kalikow School of Government, Public Policy and International Affairs, Hofstra University.
Proceeds benefit scholarships, research, and community-based initiatives.
2026 Keynote Speaker and Honoree
Peter Florey
The D&F Development Group
Peter Florey, Owner and Co-Founder, D&F Development Group, is a recognized leader in affordable housing and community development throughout the New York metropolitan region. Over a four-decade career, he has helped shape inclusive housing initiatives and revitalization efforts across New York State.
2026 Honorees
Rashid A. Walker
Founder & CEO, First Street Companies
Honored for his visionary leadership in community-centered real estate development and his commitment to expanding housing opportunities while investing in the future of the Village of Hempstead.
Claudia M. Boyle, MS, LMHC
Chief Executive Officer, Hispanic Counseling Center
Recognized for more than three decades of leadership in advancing culturally responsive behavioral health services and expanding access to compassionate, community-based care for Long Island’s diverse communities.
Dr. Meena Bose
Executive Dean, Peter S. Kalikow School of Government, Public Policy and International Affairs, Hofstra University
Honored for her distinguished contributions to civic education, public policy, and scholarship through her teaching, research, and public engagement.
Evening Highlights
Hearty multinational-inspired hors d’oeuvres and cocktail hour, followed by the awards program, entertainment, and desserts.
Presentation of the
FourLeaf Federal Credit Union
High School Diversity Essay Scholarship Award
Long Island high school students are invited to share their perspectives on how diversity shapes their lives and communities. Up to $10,000 in scholarships and prizes will be awarded. Essays must be received by Monday, November 2, 2026.
View the 2026 Essay Prompt and Scholarship Guidelines (PDF)Multicultural Performances
- Hofstra Sitare – Award-Winning South Asian Fusion Dance Ensemble
- Great Neck South Lion Dancers
- Nationally acclaimed Uniondale High School “Rhythm of the Knight” Show Choir
About the Celebration
The Celebration of Suburban Diversity is a signature initiative of the National Center for Suburban Studies at Hofstra University. Since 2009, the event has brought together civic, business, educational, and community leaders to recognize the contributions of individuals and organizations advancing inclusive suburban communities. Both a festive gathering and an important source of support for the Center’s work, the celebration highlights the social and economic value of our region’s growing diversity through inspiring speakers, performances, and community engagement.
18 Years of Impact
- More than $200,000 awarded in High School Diversity Essay Scholarships in partnership with FourLeaf Federal Credit Union
- Supporting diversity-focused faculty research and curriculum development at Hofstra
- Connecting students, educators, business leaders, nonprofit organizations, and community advocates across Long Island
Past Celebrations
Explore highlights from previous years, including honorees, photos, and program details.
Celebration of Suburban Diversity 2025
was held on
Tuesday, November 18, 2025, 6pm
Crest Hollow Country Club, Woodbury, NY
2025 HONOREE AND KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Derek Peterson
Founder and CEO
Soter Technologies
HONOREES
Mohinder Singh Taneja
Co-Founder, Celebration of Suburban Diversity Founder, American Diversity Forum
Chief Robert Paul Pharaoh
Montaukett Indian Nation
Martine Hackett
Associate Professor and Chair, Department of Population Health Director, Public Health Graduate Programs, Hofstra University
View Photos of the 2025 Diversity Celebration
Photos: Matteo Bracco
Thank you to our sponsors.
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