In a magnificent evening of elegance, unity, and purpose, the Coptic American Law Enforcement Organization (Coptic LEO) held its annual Gala and Awards Ceremony at the Hilton Garden Inn, bringing together law enforcement leaders, diplomats, clergy, and community members, to celebrate service, heritage, and leadership.
The event program opened with a stirring introduction by the NYPD Emerald Society Pipes and Drums Band, followed by the national anthems of both the United States and Egypt. As NYPD officers presented both flags, the Egyptian flag was proudly carried by an Egyptian NYPD officer—an especially powerful moment that symbolized the organization’s mission of honoring heritage while serving the nation with distinction.
The evening began with an opening prayer delivered by NYPD Chaplain Father George Anastasio, followed by opening remarks from Coptic LEO Founder and President, Lieutenant Mariana Zakhary. In her address, Lt. Zakhary reflected on the organization’s mission, growth, and resilience.
“The strength of the Coptic American Law Enforcement Organization, and the success behind our work—despite the numerous challenges, obstacles, and hidden battles—lies in the fact that we are intentional and walk with purpose,” she said. “We are guided by our simple yet powerful motto: “Be the Light.”
Throughout the evening, awards were presented to leaders and members who exemplify the highest ideals of law enforcement and the core values of Coptic LEO.
The Excellence in Leadership Award was presented to Chief of Transit Joseph Gulotta Although due to a last-minute work-emergency was unable to attend, his unwavering dedication to the men and women of the NYPd, public safety and the Transit Bureau was recognized and met with warm applause from those in attendance.
The Trailblazer Award was presented to Assistant Chief Melissa Eger, the first woman to serve as Staten Island Borough Commander. Her historic leadership and commitment to excellence were celebrated as an inspiration to officers across the city and beyond.
The Distinguished Service Award was presented to Police Officer Kevin Murphy, Manhattan North Trustee of the NYC Police Benevolent Association. Officer Murphy’s career reflects a lifetime of dedication—serving both in the United States Marine Corps and the New York City Police Department—while demonstrating remarkable strength and resilience through his courageous battle with cancer.
The Member of the Year Award was presented to Sergeant Michael Said, Vice President of Coptic LEO, in recognition of his unwavering commitment to the organization’s mission, exceptional work ethic, and leadership within law enforcement, setting a powerful example for members.
The Cop of the Year Award was presented to Police Officer Beshoy Mina for extraordinary acts of bravery and service, including the removal of an illegal firearm and his critical role in saving the lives of two individuals in separate suicidal incidents.
The Appreciation Award was presented to Auxiliary Police Officer Leonid Barinstein, for his technical expertise and unwavering support of Coptic LEO’s mission.
The ceremony concluded with a closing prayer by Rev. Father Dr. Mina Shaheid, bringing the formal program to a reflective and meaningful close.
Coptic LEO was deeply honored by the presence of distinguished guests, including Deputy Consul of Egypt Mr. Amr Koraiem, Her Excellency Ms. Norhalilah Abdul Jalil, Consul General of Malaysia in New York and the first woman to hold this position, and Consul Akhtar. Executive leaders from the New York City Police Department and the Department of Corrections were also in attendance, including DOC Assistant Commissioner Hossam Georgy. The evening was further enriched by the presence of several Coptic clergy, representatives from numerous law enforcement organizations and NYPD fraternal organizations and notable Egyptian community leaders who gathered in strong support of the Coptic American Law Enforcement Organization’s mission.
During her speech, Lieutenant Zakhary also paid tribute to the Line of Duty families in attendance, reaffirming that the sacrifices made by their loved ones will never be forgotten and that Coptic LEO remains steadfast in honoring the legacy of the fallen heroes.
The evening was further enriched by cultural entertainment, including a moving oud performance by the talented musician Reda El Seidi, a longtime friend of the organization, along with traditional Egyptian tabla music that added a celebratory and meaningful cultural touch to the program.
Lt. Zakhary noted that Coptic Americans carry a unique and profound identity rooted in ancient history and enduring faith. Ancient Egyptians established some of the earliest formal legal systems, with courts, judges, written law, and organized guards tasked with protecting cities, trade routes, and civilians. These early foundations of order, service, and public safety continue to echo in modern policing today. Equally central is the Coptic Christian heritage—defined by faith, resilience, sacrifice, and service to others.
Coptic LEO is more than an organization—it is a bridge. A bridge between generations of officers, between law enforcement and the communities they serve, and between heritage and public service. For many members—whether born in Egypt or first-generation Coptic Americans—entering law enforcement, particularly the NYPD, is an uncommon career path. The organization remains committed to mentoring, guiding, and inspiring the next generation of officers while emphasizing ethics, accountability, service, and officer wellbeing.
The past year marked a period of historic milestones and growth. For the first time, Coptic LEO hosted a Coptic Heritage Celebration inside One Police Plaza, where ancient Coptic hymns echoed alongside the American and Egyptian national anthems.
Coptic LEO also co-hosted the first-ever Egyptian Day celebration in Manhattan, In collaboration with a valued community partner organization, sharing Egypt’s rich culture and history with the city its members proudly serve.
Internationally, Coptic LEO carried out its first humanitarian mission to Egypt under the guidance of His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, the 118th Pope of Alexandria. During the mission trip, members distributed school bags and supplies to over 1,000 children in underserved communities. At home, the organization continued its outreach through community service initiatives, heritage celebrations, an annual scholarship program, a day of joy for children recovering from cancer and serious illnesses, toy giveaways in East New York, and hospital visits to young patients.
Addressing community members in attendance, Lt. Zakhary emphasized the importance of partnership and shared responsibility. “Your presence matters,” she said. “Law enforcement cannot succeed alone. Together, we can continue to build trust, honor our heritage, and inspire the next generation to see policing not just as a career—but as a noble calling.”
As the evening concluded, one message resonated clearly: through faith, service, and intentional leadership, the Coptic American Law Enforcement Organization continues to live by its guiding principle—“Be the Light”.
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