Long Island State Veterans Home Dedicates Gift Shop in Honor of Colonel E. David Woycik Jr.

The Long Island State Veterans Home at Stony Brook University named its gift shop in honor of Colonel E. David Woycik Jr. (Ret.), Esq. on September 2, 2026. The recognition honors his enduring contribution to the home and his unwavering dedication to serving veterans and their families throughout the Long Island community.

Col. Woycik Jr. and his wife, Carolyn Sanchez Woycik, were in attendance, along with Fred Sganga, executive director of the Long Island State Veterans Home; staff and residents of the veterans home; William A. Wertheim, MD, MBA, executive vice president of Stony Brook Medicine; elected officials; and distinguished representatives.

“Today’s ceremony is more than the naming of a gift shop. It is a celebration of commitment and an expression of gratitude to Col. Woycik Jr. and his wife, Carolyn,” Sganga said. “Col. Woycik Jr. has devoted his life to this work, both in uniform and in the community. His leadership, advocacy and passion for supporting veterans have left an indelible mark on Long Island and on this home.”

Col. Woycik Jr. dedicated 30 years of distinguished service to the U.S. Army, retiring as a colonel in the Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAG Corps). Throughout his military career, he served his nation around the world, including deployment during Desert Storm in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait and across seven overseas tours in Panama. His contributions were recognized with numerous honors, including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal and Army Achievement Medal.

“My devotion to veterans comes from decades of serving alongside them,” said Col. Woycik Jr. “The Long Island State Veterans Home impressed me from the moment I walked through its doors. The breadth of care here — medical, rehabilitative and daily activities — reflects a level of excellence that truly makes a difference. Helping strengthen this home is simply an extension of my responsibility to the brave men and women who served our nation.”

Col. Woycik Jr.’s leadership and service have extended far beyond his military and legal careers. As a senior trial partner at Sanders, Aronova, Grossman, Woycik, Viener & Kalant, PLLC in Garden City, New York, he has long devoted his time and expertise to organizations that serve veterans and their families. His involvement with groups such as America’s VetDogs, Canine Companions for Independence and in recent years with the Long Island State Veterans Home reflects a sustained, hands-on investment in the well-being of others, with a special focus on veterans and their families.

“As we dedicate this gift shop in recognition of Col. Woycik Jr.’s generosity, we honor a commitment that extends far beyond these walls. His philanthropy reflects a deep belief in supporting veterans with dignity, comfort and meaningful opportunities for connection,” Wertheim said. “This space is a reminder that thoughtful giving can enrich the lives of those who have served and make a lasting difference in the moments that matter most.”

The Long Island State Veterans Home has served more than 18,000 veterans, spouses, surviving spouses and Gold Star parents since opening in 1991, providing skilled nursing care, rehabilitation, adult day health services and a community shaped by respect, purpose and meaningful engagement. With more than 600 employees and nearly 300 volunteers, the home remains deeply committed to honoring each resident’s legacy by offering exceptional care, meaningful engagement and a true sense of belonging — fulfilling its mission “to care for America’s heroes.”

The Colonel E. David Woycik Jr. Gift Shop is available to all residents and visitors at the Long Island State Veterans Home. For many residents and their families, simple pleasures such as buying a lottery ticket in the gift shop or enjoying a favorite sweet treat bring moments of joy and independence.

Those interested in learning more about how they can support the Long Island State Veterans Home and make a meaningful impact are welcome to contact Jaime McGrade, director of development, Stony Brook Medicine, at (631) 358-8774 for additional information.

The funding Col. E. David Woycik Jr. contributed to the Long Island State Veterans Home Endowed Fund for Excellence is amplified by both the New York state endowment match program and the Simons Infinity Investment Match Challenge, which will triple the impact this endowment gift will have on Stony Brook. Although the New York state match has concluded, Stony Brook has created a new match to keep the momentum going and strengthen long-term impact through endowment support. For more information, visit stonybrook.edu/endowments. If you have interest in or questions about endowments, contact Danielle Holton, interim chief development officer, at (631) 444-8305 or danielle.holton@stonybrookmedicine.edu.

View photos from the veterans home’s first official room naming below.