32. Charles Strain

As the managing partner of Farrell Fritz, Charles Strain oversees one of Long Island’s top corporate law firms, helping it become a powerhouse in corporate banking, health care and commercial real estate here. He’s also a vital force for the public good. For eight years, Strain has been the chairman of the board of Winthrop University Hospital in Mineola, which has been ranked nationally in pediatric and adult medicine specialties by U.S. News & World Report. He also serves on the board of directors of the Long Island Association, Accelerate Long Island, the Family & Children’s Association, and the Winthrop South Nassau Health System, as well as serving on the joint planning committee of the Long Island Health Network. Recently he helped Sacred Heart Academy in Hempstead, where he’d been on the board, build their first playing field and track in the school’s history. Strain’s influence is felt far and wide.