Sachem alumnus Anthony Piccirillo has reached a major milestone in his public service career, being named the 21st Presiding Officer of the Suffolk County Legislature.
Piccirillo, 42, is a graduate of Sachem High School’s Class of 2001 and was inducted into the Sachem Hall of Honor last year, recognizing his leadership, service, and community impact. In November, he was elected to his fourth term representing the Legislature’s 8th District, which includes Sayville, Oakdale, Holbrook, Bayport, and Bohemia.
Over the course of his legislative career, Piccirillo has built a reputation as a policy-focused leader with experience across multiple areas of county government. He previously served as chairman of the Government Operations and Environment Committee and the Parks and Agriculture Committee. In 2022, he chaired a bipartisan cybersecurity committee formed in response to a ransomware attack that disrupted county operations and compromised sensitive data. In 2024, he also served as chairman of the Legislature’s capital budget working group and, most recently, as majority whip.
Following his election as presiding officer, Piccirillo expressed gratitude and optimism in a Facebook message: “Today was a great day!” Piccirillo wrote. “I want to thank my colleagues in the legislature on both sides of the aisle for putting their faith in me to be elected the 21st Presiding Officer of the Suffolk County Legislature. I am humbled and honored to lead this body and look forward to making Suffolk County safer and more affordable!”
Piccirillo’s appointment highlights a full-circle moment for the Sachem community, as a former student now assumes one of the most influential leadership roles in county government. His continued rise underscores the district’s tradition of developing leaders who serve at the highest levels while remaining connected to their local roots.