Suffolk Reporter

Sue Hersh has been posthumously honored as the 2024 William Floyd Alumni Association Outstanding Educator. Born in 1948 in Miller Place, New York, Susan A. Hersh pursued her education at Earl L. Vandermeulen High School in Port Jefferson before attending Moore College of Art and Design in Philadelphia. She later earned a master's degree in social work from Stony Brook University.

Ms. Hersh began her teaching career at William Floyd High School in 1973 as an art teacher, commuting from Manhattan to fulfill her role. Her influence on students was profound, as noted by former student Alysha Horstman: “I had an art teacher in high school that strongly influenced and inspired me. Sue Hersh taught painting in my Long Island district and as a freshman I anticipated taking her advanced class. Her reputation among students was excellent...Ms. Hersh often collaborated with Ms. Bouer, an English teacher that taught children's literature, one of my favorite classes." Together with Ms. Bouer, Ms. Hersh integrated art and literature to enhance the educational experience.

Throughout her career, Ms. Hersh mentored numerous award-winning students and led the school's art club while contributing to set designs for various theatrical productions at William Floyd High School, including "Anything Goes" in 2001.

Ms. Hersh dedicated 29 years to teaching before passing away in 2002 at the age of 54. In recognition of her contributions and impact on the school community, the Susan Hersh Art Gallery was established in the north lobby of William Floyd High School.