District-wide St. Baldrick’s event raises nearly $50,000 for childhood cancer research
Members of the East Northport Middle School Bald Tigers team with ENMS science teacher and team captain John Braun at the March 14 St. Baldrick’s event at Northport High School. Photo courtesy Theresa Braun.
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The Northport-East Northport school district hosted its annual St. Baldrick’s event last month, bringing together students, staff and community members from across the district in support of childhood cancer research. Through their collective efforts, participants raised to date an impressive $48,183 to help fund lifesaving treatments and support for children battling cancer.
Created right here in Northport, the St. Baldrick’s Foundation has raised hundreds of millions of dollars since its inception in 1999, and is now the largest charity funder of childhood cancer research grants.
The East Northport Middle School Bald Tigers brought in over $36,000, breaking their 2020 record of $31,279. Led by ENMS science teacher and team captain John Braun, the Bald Tigers have raised $395,070 from the middle school alone over the past two decades. He and ENMS counselor Theresa Braun, as well as St. Baldrick’s volunteer Nora Nolan, were honored at the March 14 event as Barons of the Brave for reaching an incredible 20 years of participation with the organization.
One of the event’s highest honors, the League of Legendary Heroes recognition, was awarded to Northport High School Assistant Principal Dr. Terrence Hinson for his exceptional commitment to the cause.
Several participants were recognized for their years of involvement and fundraising efforts. James Barth, Ryan Bockelken, Ray Catapano, Brian Drew, Declan Hand, Connor Killoran, Mackenzie Konop, Benjamin McCabe, Justine Neknez, Miles Offermann, Joey Pizzo and Pierson Prestano earned the title of Squire for three years of participation. Cameron Gribben, Karen Paquet and Augustine Stuertz achieved the Knight level for their seven years of dedication. Guest speakers included Charles Armstrong, an author and cancer survivor; Karen Paquet, a dedicated parent advocate and staff member; and Dr. Rina Meyer, a pediatric hematologist at Stony Brook University Hospital, who shared insights into the impact of St. Baldrick’s-funded research on patient care.
“The district is incredibly proud of all who participated, demonstrating the power of community, generosity and dedication in making a real difference in the fight against childhood cancer,” read a district press release.
“Our community is truly incredible,” said Theresa Braun, who helps organize the middle school efforts every year with John. “It’s almost like a rite of passage to get involved while in middle school. We have former students in high school and college that still join our team or who have started their own team at college.”
Donations to the district’s 2025 efforts can still be made here.
