Molloy University welcomed nearly 500 attendees to an evening of music, movement, and meaningful expression during the seventh annual “Unity Through Diversity: Celebrating All Abilities in the Arts,” held May 1 at the Madison Theatre on the Rockville Centre campus.
Presented by The Rebecca Center for Music Therapy, the event featured close to 100 performers from the neurodivergent community, each sharing their talents through music, dance, poetry, storytelling, and visual art. The program reflects a growing commitment to inclusion, creativity, and community engagement across campus and beyond.
“What began as a vision to create a platform for authentic expression has grown into a powerful community movement,” said Dr. John Carpente, founder and executive director of The Rebecca Center. “This year’s event elevated neurodivergent voices and talents through music, art, and collaboration, reaffirming our belief that music is not only a form of expression, but also a pathway to connection, empowerment, and equity.”
The event is rooted in a mission to celebrate all abilities in the arts while fostering a sense of belonging. According to Mike Kelliher, music therapist and adjunct assistant professor, the initiative is grounded in neurodivergent leadership, community partnership, and inclusive artistic expression. He noted that the event provides a platform for individuals of all abilities to express themselves and celebrate their strengths through creative outlets.
This year’s program introduced several enhancements that deepened its impact. The event featured the largest group of community vendors to date, including neurodivergent run businesses, organizations that employ neurodivergent individuals, as well as Molloy departments and student groups. A sensory friendly break room was also available to support accessibility and comfort for attendees.
Performances throughout the evening highlighted both individual talent and collective joy. A group known as The Golden Band energized the audience with a performance of “Everybody” by the Backstreet Boys, which quickly evolved into a lively, interactive moment as performers and audience members joined in the celebration. During a medley that included “Three Little Birds,” “Stir It Up,” and “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” participant Jason Germaine encouraged the audience to sing and move together, creating a shared sense of connection across the theatre.
One of the evening’s most memorable performances came from 12-year-old Austin, the youngest soloist in this year’s program, who performed “Send My Love (To Your New Lover)” by Adele. Having participated in programs at The Rebecca Center since early childhood, his appearance on stage marked an important milestone in his artistic journey.
The program also highlighted the continued partnership between The Rebecca Center and the Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County. After participating virtually in previous years, members of the organization performed live on stage, reflecting the growth of a collaboration that began during the pandemic and continues to expand opportunities for connection and expression.
The event was co-hosted by Molloy student CJ Allen and alumna Kyra Ganci Barnes, who also delivered a performance of “True Colors” that underscored themes of authenticity and self-acceptance. University leadership also joined the performance, with President James Lentini on guitar and Provost Michelle Piskulich on vocals, alongside Molloy music students and performing arts groups in both the opening and finale.
A special tribute was incorporated into this year’s event through vibrant blue tie-dye shirts created in honor of Paddy McManus, a longtime member of The Rebecca Center community remembered for his love of music and joyful spirit.
“This event is always a highlight of our year,” said Diana N. Abourafeh, board certified music therapist and event organizer. “We are so proud to showcase the amazing neurodivergent run businesses, artists, performers, and hosts who make this celebration truly special.”
All proceeds from the evening support The Rebecca Center Client Scholarship Fund, which provides financial assistance to individuals and families seeking access to music therapy services.
Kelliher emphasized the lasting impact of the experience, noting that the goal is for attendees to leave with a sense of joy and connection. He added that music and the arts serve as powerful unifiers and that it is essential for every performer to feel heard, valued, and celebrated through their authentic expression.
As the evening ended, the celebration highlighted the lasting impact of creating spaces where very voice is heard and valued.