Senior Spotlight: Genry Salvador Sorto

Welcome to the 2026 Senior Spotlight series! This weekly feature will run every week until Central Islip High School's graduation ceremonies. Enjoy!

Senior Spotlight: Genry Salvador Sorto

Activities, Clubs & Leadership Roles:
Stage Crew (Creative Design Lead, 2025-2026); National Honor Society (Treasurer, 2025-2026); Science Technology Entry Program (STEP) Club; Computer Science Honor Society; Science National Honor Society; Math Club; Social Studies Club; Peer Leadership; Future Nurses of America; Newspaper Club; Senior Class; Junior Club; Freshman Club.

Most Meaningful Activity:
My role as Creative Design Lead in Stage Crew meant the most to me because it only demanded that I be myself. In Stage Crew, I was allowed to be my most natural and creative self, trusted to design and paint things as I saw fit. I often worked independently as the quality control for the visual aspects of productions and, this year, the functional aspect of the biggest plant, which I brought to life from design to the finishing touches of paint. Stage Crew is more than a regular club. We stayed from 2-10 p.m. on many nights, shared more food than Ehrhardt’s pockets could bear, created countless memories, and developed leadership and collaboration skills beyond any other club on a fixed schedule.

Plans After Graduation:
I plan on working at Brookhaven National Laboratory over the summer before attending New York University this fall to pursue Mechanical Engineering, with a minor in Studio Art.

Future Career Goals:
I plan to study Mechanical Engineering and apply those skills alongside my artistic abilities to work in the entertainment industry, focusing on animatronics, mechanisms, and practical mechanical effects in movies.

Staff Member Recognition:
I would like to recognize Mrs. Royce first and foremost, as she has been in my corner looking out for me since freshman year. Whether it was a friendly conversation or a nudge to reach my potential, she always made sure I stayed on track. I would also like to recognize Mr. Ehrhardt, who helped direct me toward my future career path. While I originally planned to pursue welding through BOCES, my work with him in Stage Crew revealed an engineering mindset I didn’t know I had. He trusted me, challenged me, and taught me that growth comes through failure and persistence. His influence has played a major role in shaping who I am today.

Role Model / Inspiration:
My parents and my friend group inspired me to become the person I am today. My mother’s work ethic and my father’s determination through difficult circumstances taught me never to give up. My friends, especially Leah Bharat and Lehila Cribe, pushed me to keep striving for success. Iron sharpens iron, and their accomplishments motivated me to work harder and continue growing.

What Central Islip Means to Me:
Central Islip is the definition of an underdog. It is a community that nearby towns often overlook, yet it offers incredible opportunities. Our STEM programs, dedicated teachers, and strong sense of community have provided me with mentors, resources, and scholarships beyond measure. CI Pride is more than a slogan—it is the diversity, support, and commitment that make Central Islip feel like home.

Proudest Accomplishment:
One of my proudest accomplishments was designing and helping build the fourth plant for this year’s high school musical. As the lead designer, I created the internal mechanism that allowed the plant to move, function, and conceal performers. Despite weather delays and time constraints, our team worked tirelessly during free periods, after school, and late into the evening to bring the project to life. Seeing the final product succeed on stage was an achievement I am incredibly proud of both as an individual and as part of a team.

Advice for Underclassmen:
"A los gustos, los colores." As my dad says, it means staying true to what you like. Whether it’s your style, interests, hobbies, or career path, make choices because they matter to you—not because of what others think. Follow your passions and be yourself.