For Lynne Mongon, administrative assistant in the Mahopac High School athletic department, every day is about connection. Though she prefers to stay out of the spotlight, Lynne’s compassion, energy and dedication have made her a quiet cornerstone of Mahopac athletics and a trusted friend to countless students.
“I love the kids… I’m like a Mama Bear,” Mongon said. “Kids stop by throughout the day to say hi, grab a hug or talk about what’s on their minds. Sometimes it’s something personal, sometimes it’s relationship advice. Steve [Luciana] and I want this office to be a safe space for students, a no-judgment zone.”
That warmth and care extend beyond the office walls. Mongon shared her enthusiasm for the high school’s new Unified Flag Football program, which brings together students with and without disabilities to compete side by side.
“If you go to a Unified game, you’ll walk away with a happy heart,” she said. “Our Unified athletes give their all at every practice and game, and our regular education students and coaches are protective of them and push them to be their best.”
Mongon expressed gratitude to the Mahopac Board of Education for taking quick action in supporting the new program. “When Section One announced Unified Flag Football,” she said, “our Board approved funding for a Mahopac team right away. It was such a smooth, positive process.”
A recipient of the 2025 New York State Athletic Administrators’ Association (NYSAAA) Section One Judith A. Martens Secretarial Award of Excellence, Mongon speaks with immense pride about Mahopac’s students and athletes. “We have the best students ever,” she said. “Our athletes are kind, welcoming and hold each other accountable. If someone gets out of line, their teammates step in. And our student fans, the Mahopac Maniacs, are loud, proud and respectful. They even clean up after themselves in the bleachers after games, at home and away.”
She credits Mahopac’s coaches for setting that tone. “Our coaches are incredible mentors,” she said. “They care deeply about their teams and stay connected with their athletes long after graduation. That kind of influence shapes who our students become.”
For Mongon, it all comes back to community.
“The support we see from families, staff and neighbors makes Mahopac a special place,” she said. “One of the best parts of my job is getting to build those connections, with our athletes, our students and everyone who makes up this community. It’s a privilege to be part of something so positive.”
Interim Superintendent of Schools Frank Miele, who has worked with Mongon for many years, said her impact on Mahopac Athletics can’t be overstated.
“I had the pleasure of working with Lynne six years ago, and I can say without hesitation that she’s the best thing that’s ever happened to the athletic department,” Miele said. “She has a true ‘can-do’ attitude, and there’s nothing she can’t accomplish. During COVID, I asked if she could organize a car caravan parade to celebrate our student-athletes, and the next thing I knew it was done. Another year, I mentioned the idea of a helicopter flyover during a football game, and a week later, it was a reality. Lynne makes things happen.”
Miele added that when the district recently decided to bring back its popular March Madness staff basketball fundraiser, the first person he called was Mongon.
“Lynne’s already putting the plans into motion, and the excitement is spreading,” Miele said. “She’s the best of the best. Our community is so fortunate to have someone like Lynne. She’s helped make Mahopac Athletics one of the best programs in Section One, and she does it all with heart.”