Several years ago, the Highland Central School District (HCSD) established a Hall of Fame to recognize the achievements of accomplished alumni and outstanding faculty and staff, while inspiring today’s students to pursue greatness through education. This year’s Alumni Hall of Fame inductees are Dennis Bragg, a dedicated volunteer and local business owner, and Gina Hansut, a community leader and school district advocate. Board of Education President Alan Barone is the recipient of this year’s Husky Pride Award. 

Like previous inductees, the 2026 honorees exemplify a steadfast commitment to Highland.

Dennis Bragg

Bragg, a graduate of Highland High School (HHS)’s Class of 1972, distinguished himself as a stellar scholar-athlete. He played basketball and football, helping to lead Highland to Ulster County Athletic League Football Championships in 1971 and 1972.

After graduating, Bragg continued his football career at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, where he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering. He later joined Bragg’s Electrical Service, the family business founded by his parents, eventually becoming owner and leading the company until his semi-retirement in 2005.

A lifelong resident of the Town of Lloyd, Bragg has given generously to the school district and his community. During his 30 years as Highland’s Junior Varsity Football coach, he emphasized respect, leadership, and character, mentoring countless students and helping them build confidence and life skills. He also played a key role in installing field lighting at Tony Williams Field and the Little League field, expanding opportunities for young athletes. Today, he continues to support local organizations, including the American Legion and the Fire Department.

Gina Hansut

Hansut, a member of HHS’s Class of 1981, is a former Ulster County legislator representing District 10, which includes the Towns of Lloyd and Marlborough. First elected in 2022, she served two terms. She chaired the Law Enforcement and Public Safety Committee and served on the Ways and Means, Laws and Rules, and Audit Committees, where her work focused on public safety, emergency services, and community initiatives. Among her key accomplishments, she was instrumental in initiating the construction of a new 911 center in Ulster County, and she successfully passed a resolution for the county to adopt the ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative to assist and support individuals with special needs and their families.

Hansut was appointed as a Highland fire commissioner in 2026. In this role, she is contributing to the oversight of fire department operations, including budgeting and capital planning. Prior to her election to public office, she worked for approximately 20 years in the Marlboro Central School District’s Special Education Department. 

A lifelong resident of the Highland area, Hansut has been actively involved in local civic, church, and youth organizations for more than two decades. She has also served on the Ulster County Youth Board and Community Action Committee. In 2024, she received the Ulster County School Boards Association Distinguished Friend of Education Award in recognition of her support for students and school funding initiatives.

Alan Barone

Barone, a lifelong resident of Highland, has dedicated his life to serving his community. As owner of Barone Construction Group, Inc., he brings a strong work ethic and a longstanding commitment to giving back.

Barone’s service began in 1973 at age 18, when he became involved with Highland Little League. He went on to serve as league president for several decades, impacting generations of young athletes. He has also coached Catholic Youth Organization Girls Basketball and Hudson United Soccer Club Boys Indoor Soccer.

Barone has been a member of the Highland Fire Department for more than 40 years, responding to thousands of service calls. In 2018, he was elected fire commissioner, a role he continues to hold.

Barone has also played an active role in enhancing community recreation opportunities, serving on the Town of Lloyd Recreation Commission for more than 16 years, including two years as chairman.

In 2002, Barone was elected to the HCSD Board of Education, where he has served as a trustee for more than 20 years. For 15 of those years, he has held the position of board president, providing steady leadership and vision. During his tenure, he has helped bring four major capital projects to fruition, significantly improving District facilities and resources for students and staff.

Spring Gala

The Highland Educational Foundation will honor this year’s Hall of Fame inductees at its annual Spring Gala—a dinner, dance, and silent auction—on Friday, June 5, from 6-10 PM at The Tavern at DuBois Farms in Highland. Tickets are $65 each, with a cash bar, and can be purchased by calling or texting Becky Auchmoody at (845) 234-1522. You can also Venmo your payment to @Becky-Auchmoody. Please be sure to add the names of those attending in the comment section of your Venmo transaction. Proceeds will support the enhancement and development of future programs across all schools.

Plaques featuring photos of the honorees will be added to the Hall of Fame wall at Highland High School, joining past years’ distinguished inductees.