Monday, May 19, 2025
Molloy University hosted its sixth annual Unity Through Diversity event, marking its largest performance in the event’s history, with more than 90 performers taking the stage on May 2.
The Madison Theater at Molloy University set the stage for a vibrant evening that brought together neurodivergent artists and performers from across Long Island to share their talents through music, dance, visual art and a celebration of community.
Created and coordinated by Diana “Dee” Abourafeh, a board-certified music therapist at The Rebecca Center for Music Therapy, the event uplifts artists of all abilities and backgrounds, offering the neurodivergent community a welcoming space to share their creativity through music, dance, poetry, storytelling, self-advocacy and visual art.
The evening opened with an art gallery featuring visual works and culminated in a high-energy performance at the theater.
Amongst the featured pieces in the gallery were artists from The Rebecca Center, BackYard Players & Friends, The Nicholas Center, the Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County, members from Lots O’Stuff and the Hewlett-Woodmere, Freeport and Oceanside School Districts, all of whom also took part in the evening’s performance.
Following the art reception, the main event showcased a vibrant lineup of performances from the organizations, including a high-energy group rendition of The Black Eyed Peas’ “I Gotta Feeling,” where more than 90 performers lit up the Madison Theater stage. The ensemble featured participants from The Rebecca Center, Backyard Players, The Nicholas Center, and Molloy University’s MOST Program, an inclusive college experience for young adults with developmental disabilities.
The performance also included surprise appearances from Molloy University President Jim Lentini, Vice President of Mission Integration Donald “DJ” Mitchell Jr. and Vice President of Academic Affairs Michelle Piskulich.
The Rebecca Center is part of Molloy University’s community outreach initiatives. The center’s mission is to use interactive music therapy to enhance communication, connection and cognitive function while removing barriers that prevent individuals with developmental challenges from engaging in vital social interactions and life processes.
At the center, they work towards their mission in a multifaceted way: clinical services, training and education, research and publications. The center provides services for children, adolescents, young adults and the elderly.
Proceeds from the event will benefit The Rebecca Center Client Scholarship Fund, which provides financial assistance to clients in need of access to music therapy services at the center.
To learn more about the center, visit TheRebeccaCenter.org.
