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Sayville High School students from 1999 to 2019 likely remember Donna Lyes-Papa simply as “Papa”— the hall monitor who went above and beyond for teachers, staff and especially children.
She was the confidante who encouraged students to attend class, join sports teams and always believe in themselves. Her dedication left an indelible mark on the Sayville community, and her legacy continues to inspire through the annual Donna Lyes-Papa Scholarship.
On Thursday at 7 p.m., The Wayward in Sayville will host the fifth annual fundraiser to support the scholarship. The evening will feature a buffet, live entertainment, a cash bar, door prizes, a chance auction and a 50/50 raffle — all in the spirit of fun that Lyes-Papa herself would have loved, organizers said.
Tickets are $43 per person and must be purchased in advance by contacting Tony Papa at 631.774.4221.
Lyes-Papa, who lived with multiple sclerosis for years, remained a daily presence at Sayville High School despite her challenges.
“Donna loved the students at Sayville High School,” said her widower, Tony Papa. “She suffered from M.S. for a long time, but that never stopped her from showing up every day. She always said, ‘Those kids need me.’ Donna had a special place in her heart for students who had a hard time in school. She would always say, ‘There is no bad kid, just misunderstood.’ I want this scholarship to be her legacy.”
Lyes-Papa died in May 2020 after battling cancer.
Community members are encouraged to support Thursday’s event by attending or donating themed baskets, gift cards or other items. All proceeds from the event will go toward growing the scholarship, organizers said.
Top photo: (Courtesy).