Earlier this month, the South Colonie Board of Education proudly announced the newest inductees into the Colonie Central High School Hall of Fame. These three distinguished individuals will be honored during the 70th Commencement Ceremony on June 21, 2024, at the MVP Arena.
The commencement ceremony will be live streamed on the district’s YouTube channel beginning at 3 p.m.
"Recognizing these exceptional Colonie Central High School graduates in our Hall of Fame is a testament to their achievements and contributions to society,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. David Perry. “Each inductee exemplifies the spirit of excellence and dedication that we strive to instill in all our students. Their successes inspire current and future students to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in their professional communities. We look forward to celebrating them and the rest of our Colonie grads at Graduation."
Gregory Aidala -1992
Recognized for his contributions to Arts and Entertainment.
As the president of Radial Gage Entertainment, Gregory Aidala has established himself as a prominent figure in the comedy scene, hosting and producing the popular Brew-Ha-Ha Comedy showcase. His comedic talent has earned him opportunities to perform alongside renowned comedians such as Jerry Seinfeld, Dave Attell, and Colin Quinn, among others.
In addition to his success as a stand-up comedian, Aidala has also made a mark as an actor, appearing on various platforms including the Lifetime Movie Network, MTV, PBS, and NBC. His versatility extends to commercial work, where he has been featured in advertisements for local businesses like Saratoga Casino and MVP Insurance.
Beyond his entertainment career, Aidala is a dedicated life coach and executive strategist, providing support to individuals in their personal and professional lives through his business. He is deeply committed to giving back to his community, serving as a board member for organizations like Get Your Rack Back and volunteering with St. Pius X Church and the Albany Police Department.
Aidala has been recognized for his talent and dedication, earning accolades such as being voted "Best Local Comedian" by the Times Union Readers' Poll multiple times and being inducted into the historic Friars Club in New York City.
Aidala's journey from a Colonie Central High School graduate to a respected figure in the entertainment industry and beyond serves as an inspiring example for students seeking pathways to success.
Frank Mauriello - 1975|
Recognized for his contributions to Humanitarian and Service receiving Lifetime Recognition.
After graduating from Colonie Central High School, Frank Mauriello pursued higher education at Siena College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree. His professional journey has been multifaceted, encompassing various roles and responsibilities. Mauriello has served as a member of the Colonie Town Board, assuming the position of Deputy Supervisor. Additionally, he has held the position of Minority Leader within the Albany County Legislature, representing District 27.
Alongside his public service, Mauriello has also excelled in the private sector as a sales representative for Matthews Aurora Funeral Solutions, garnering recognition for his exceptional sales performance and contribution to revenue growth.
Throughout his career, Mauriello has exemplified dedication to his alma mater and community. His service extends to various roles, including time on the Colonie Sign Review Board, and the Board of Fire Commissioners for Midway Fire District. He has also contributed significantly to the South Colonie School District’s Dollars for Scholars Board of Directors.
His impact on the community is profound, evident in his involvement in numerous park projects and youth programs in Colonie. Mauriello played an integral role in initiatives like the construction of the Crossings of Colonie and the Lisha Kill Sports Complex, which serves as the home for Colonie Soccer Club. Additionally, he has sponsored numerous legislative grants for South Colonie youth organizations and Colonie Seniors.
Known for his thoughtful and steady leadership, Mauriello continues to inspire those around him to contribute positively to their communities, embodying the spirit of service and compassion.
James DeMercurio - Class of 1991
Recognized for his contributions to Business and Professionalism.
James DeMercurio, a graduate from the class of 1991, exemplifies innovation and leadership. Throughout his remarkable 28-year tenure at General Motors (GM), DeMercurio left a significant imprint on the automotive sector.
Joining GM in 1995, DeMercurio played a pivotal role in shaping the future of automotive technology. Starting in product development, he went on to hold various roles in engineering and IT, laying a solid foundation for his career. In 2015, he joined the Global Connected Consumer Experience organization, spearheading groundbreaking initiatives in vehicle back-office systems.
Throughout his tenure at GM, DeMercurio led pioneering advancements in automotive technology, including the development of cutting-edge technologies like Firmware Over the Air (FOTA) and Cadillac Supercruise. His visionary leadership and technical expertise propelled GM to the forefront of connected vehicle experiences, enhancing driving experiences globally.
As the Global Director of GCCX Solutions, DeMercurio led a diverse team, driving innovation and fostering collaboration across borders. His influence transcended geographical boundaries, as he shared his knowledge and expertise with colleagues worldwide, through extensive travels to countries like India, Israel, Germany, and Italy.
DeMercurio's impact at GM extended beyond technical contributions; he was also known for streamlining processes and enhancing user experiences for GM employees. His innovative approaches simplified complexities, fostering efficiency across the organization.
In his role at GM, DeMercurio played a pivotal part in shaping the future of self-driving vehicles, contributing significantly to the development of autonomous technology. His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence continue to inspire innovation and transformation within the automotive industry.
Hall of Fame Legacy
Since 1994, 75 graduates have been honored in the Colonie Central High School Hall of Fame, representing a wide range of classes and accomplishments. In 2010, a new Military Wing was added to honor CCHS graduates who lost their lives on active duty. To learn more about all of our inductees, click here.
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