Jr.-Sr. High School senior Ryan Storch utilized his musical talents to make a difference in the Long Island community. He was recently recognized as one of 23 students from eight Legislative Districts to receive the Suffolk County Legislature’s Distinguished Youth Award

The DYA program challenges the county’s youth to become more civically involved and to focus on activities they not only enjoy but for which they would like to improve a skill. The program focuses on meeting goals in four separate categories: volunteer service, personal development, exploration and physical fitness.

Ryan, who received a Bronze Award for participating in two of the four possible categories, first explored and cleaned up 20 Suffolk County parks and placed a Kindness Rock in each of them. As part of his volunteer service, Ryan played the keyboard during the Lighthouse Mission’s mobile food pantry visits to Patchogue and Bellport, which entertained those in need.

Ryan is a New York State School Music Association level 6 musician for both piano and saxophone and has plans to continue his music study on the collegiate level. He is a member of the Tri-M Music Honor Society, the school’s pit orchestra and the marching band where he plays tenor sax. He said he would like to eventually pursue a career in music education or as a professional jazz musician.

The district congratulates Ryan on receiving the Distinguished Youth Award and extends best wishes for success in his music career.

Date Added: 10/7/2025