Long Island Press Power List honorees celebrated for impact, influence, hard work

Posted on June 27, 2025

The 2025 Long Island Press Power List honorees

Nearly 500 people gathered to celebrate, and celebrate the honorees, at the 20th annual Long Island Press Power List awards and dinner as the event showed its own staying power as a Long Island tradition.

Winners danced down a red carpet to be honored at the event on June 25 at Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury, as Long Island leaders from industry to nonprofits and government united for a moment of recognition and networking.

“Our Power List, celebrating its 20th anniversary, recognizes the most influential individuals on Long Island,” Schneps Media President and Copublisher Vicki Schneps said. “Tonight you are being celebrated for your commitment, impact and influence on Long Island.”

News 12’s Erin Colton, mistress of ceremonies, traded the TV screen for a podium, describing the awards as a moment where hard work is rewarded. The evening’s raffle proceeds go to The Sophia Valsamos Foundation, which seeks to empower young people to take a stand against bullying,

Julie Ratner, Co-founder and chairwoman of The Ellen Hermanson Foundation

Power Women with Victoria Schneps

“It’s your time to walk it and be proud,” Colton said of winners who walked a red carpet. “I am proud to be here with all these people in this room. If I know about anything, I know about hard work. This room is filled with people who bring hard work.”

Others talked about how committed they were to their business and work, dedicated to growing their organization as well as serving clients.

“I don’t stop. That’s how we operate,” said Henry Galasso, owner of East Coast Business Brokers. “I thank my father for that. That’s the business we grew up in. Very passionate.”

Many said it was an honor to be included on a list of influential Long Islanders that includes many people who play a large role in the region’s life.