Smithtown High School East and West students showcased confidence, creativity, and quick thinking as they took part in the annual Perfect Pitch speed networking event, highlighted this year by a new and competitive “Boardroom Finals” format.
The event, hosted by Smithtown Industry Advisory Board Executive Director Phil Como alongside Smithtown Central School District Director of Career and Technical Education Christine LoFrese, gave students a taste of real-world business environments. Participants rotated through three different business scenarios, where they were challenged to deliver concise, 60-second pitches to panels of industry professionals and judges.
Designed to sharpen communication skills and professional presence, the fast-paced format required students to think on their feet while clearly articulating ideas under pressure. Judges evaluated each pitch on clarity, confidence, and practicality, selecting top performers from each scenario to advance to the newly introduced Boardroom Finals.
During the finals, students were pushed beyond prepared remarks and tested on their ability to analyze problems, respond to follow-up questions, and demonstrate sound decision-making — skills essential in today’s workplace. The round elevated the competition, placing a stronger emphasis on critical thinking, adaptability, and professional demeanor.
Ashlynn Renkowski of Smithtown High School West emerged as the first-place winner, earning the title of 2026 Chairwoman of the Board. In recognition of her achievement, Renkowski received a commemorative desk plaque and an Amazon gift card.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Mark Secaur praised the program and its impact on students, noting its continued growth and innovation. “The work being done here is phenomenal,” Secaur said. “This program has done an amazing job, and today they’ve taken it to another level.”
Organizers said the Perfect Pitch event reflects the district’s ongoing commitment to career readiness, providing students with meaningful opportunities to engage directly with industry leaders and gain valuable real-world experience before graduation.