Musketeer Monday Part One: Emely Rivas

As stage crew manager, assistant tech director, and sound engineer for Central Islip High School's musicals and plays, she's a behind-the-scenes driving force who has contributed to the success of stage productions over the past four years. This week, it's her turn to shine in the Musketeer Monday Spotlight! Meet Central Islip High School senior Emely Rivas.

Emely is involved in a wide array of school activities, and her contributions to her school community are significant. She is president of the Class of 2025, a member of the National Honor Society, captain of the girls varsity badminton team, and a member of the girls varsity volleyball team. As a member of the National Honor Society, Emely joins her peers in various fundraising initiatives and activities that benefit the community at large. She also assisted during state Sen. Monica Martinez's holiday toy distribution at Central Islip High School.

As stage crew manager, Emely is currently preparing for Shrek the Musical, which will take the stage at Central Islip High School on March 7 and 8. Having served in this demanding role for four musicals and four plays, Emely was asked if any production stood out to her. After some thought, her answer was Grease. "Grease has definitely made me become who I am," Emely said.

Emely has honed her skills as stage crew manager under the guidance of Mr. Darren Ehrhardt, in whose class she took AP Computer Science last year. She considers him one of her role models. "I am a shy person, and Mr. Ehrhardt has helped me come out of my shell with the group. He is easy to talk to, gives good advice, and has shown me different options that have helped me succeed in school. He truly cares about all students."

Emely also looks up to Dr. Anthony Griffin. "Dr. Griffin is an amazing teacher, a very joyful person, and together with Mr. Ehrhardt, they make a great dynamic duo. These are two understanding and very trusting teachers."

Emely entered Central Islip High as a freshman when her older sister, Danielle, was a senior. "Danielle's the reason I got into stage crew. She introduced me to Mr. Ehrhardt, told me which classes to take, and made me join badminton. She's more than a best friend—she's my sister." Emely said she feels "blessed" to have parents who support and push her to succeed, and she acknowledges the teachers and alumni on Team CI for their support and guidance.

Emely trains daily at BOCES through its culinary program, which aligns with her goal of becoming a professional chef. She has been accepted to Johnson & Wales University and is also considering attending Suffolk County Community College’s Riverhead campus for its prestigious culinary program. Emely enjoys cooking for her family, preparing dishes such as chipotle pasta with grilled steak, but her specialty is barbecue ribs. "It's a classic favorite in my house that I prepare all year round, even on Thanksgiving," she said, noting that turkey is paired with her barbecue ribs as the centerpiece of the family's holiday menu.

Mr. Ehrhardt praised Emely’s dedication to her peers and school activities. "Emely is always there when needed. She runs the soundboard to ensure sound quality, helps design all sets, and makes sure they are correctly and safely built. Besides theater, Emely also volunteers at elementary and high school concerts."

Dr. Griffin added, "Emely is the confident leader she is today because she embraces challenges. She is a true CI success story that our entire community should celebrate. Emely brings strength and grace to the sound booth, and wit and insight to the classroom."