By Matt Tursi
On September 30, 2010, The Gallery of Shorthand officially opened. Situated in the rotunda of the Eastern District of New York federal courthouse in Central Islip, the Gallery is the world’s only museum devoted entirely to the shorthand profession. Its founder, Dominick M. Tursi, spoke often about celebrating the Gallery’s 10th anniversary in 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic brought that vision to a halt. Following his passing on April 14, 2023, his hand-selected Board of Directors remained committed to carrying forward his vision. In partnership with the New York State Court Reporters Association (NYSCRA), plans were made for a 15th anniversary celebration in November 2025, only to be delayed again due to the federal government shutdown. It was finally rescheduled for May 15, 2026.
One word continues to define the journey of the Gallery’s milestone celebration: perseverance. From the determination required to establish the Gallery itself to enduring a worldwide pandemic to the loss of its founder and a federal government shutdown, the Gallery has continued to persevere through every challenge. Despite these uncertainties and delays, the Board remained steadfast behind the scenes, ensuring not only the Gallery’s longevity, but also the success of a truly meaningful and memorable celebration honoring both the profession and the legacy of Dom Tursi.
Over 80 people, including 20 students, attended the Gallery of Shorthand’s 15th anniversary celebration. The night started with a video introduction given by the best person to introduce the Gallery to visitors, Dominick M. Tursi. Guests then received a guided tour of the Gallery, exploring artifacts spanning the history of shorthand from Epoch I (3500 BC) through Epoch X (the present day).
The evening focused on a revitalization of the Gallery as well as the importance of our profession. Speakers included NYSCRA Vice-President Karen Santucci, CRI; NCRF Chair-Elect Meredith Bonn, RPR, CRR; and NCRA Executive Director Dave Wenhold, CAE, PLC. Each spoke about Dom Tursi’s lasting impact, the Gallery, and what each of their organizations do. Allen Bode, Chief Assistant District Attorney for Suffolk County, spoke of his personal relationship with Dom Tursi. On behalf of District Attorney Ray Teirney, Bode presented the Tursi family with a proclamation honoring Dom. NCRA Past President Melanie Humphrey-Sonntag, FAPR, RDR, CRR, CRC, reflected on her relationship with Dom, the importance of the Gallery itself, and her current role as Vice President of the Gallery’s Board. She emphasized the need to preserve and recognize the profession’s history and impact.
The Hon. Joanna Seybert delivered the keynote speech. Back in 2008, Judge Seybert approached Dom about displaying his collection of machines and books in the Gallery. She has been one of the Gallery’s biggest advocates. Judge Seybert shared memories of Dom, his presence in the courtroom, and the support the Eastern District judges gave to the Gallery’s creation 16 years ago.
Following the speeches, two representatives from Stenograph, Karen Peck and Michelle McLaughlin, presented the Gallery with some special items. Karen Peck, as a member of The Chartered Shorthand Reporters’ Association of Ontario, presented the Gallery with original items from the 1978 joint convention between the New York State Shorthand Reporters Association and The Chartered Shorthand Reporters’ Association of Ontario. They also presented the Gallery with a 50th anniversary Stenograph machine in pristine condition. Peck then returned to representing Stenograph, and she and McLaughlin presented the Gallery with a brand-new NexGen writer to replace the older Luminex as the newest machine in the Gallery’s collection. Both the 50th anniversary edition and the NexGen are now on display to the public.
The last speaker of the night was Harriet Brenner-Gettleman, CMRS, CRI. As a long-time friend of Dom, she shared many fun stories. Brenner-Gettleman, past president of NYSCRA, presented the Tursi family with Dom’s official NYSCRA Hall of Fame induction plaque.
The Gallery’s 15th Anniversary was a tremendous success. The evening brought together people from all walks of life to share laughter, memories, and heartfelt moments in honor of the profession and Dom Tursi’s legacy. The event also raised money and awareness about the Gallery. All funds will go to renovate the Gallery for modernization, as well as to assist with possible expansion. We hope to include some new interactive elements such as a section about artificial intelligence and how it will only enhance – not replace – our profession, and education about the differences between a typewriter and a steno machine.
The anniversary celebration also featured artifacts such as books, magazines, machines such as a Dictaphone, and longtime speed champion Arnold Cohen’s personal writer, offering visitors a small glimpse of what the Gallery has in archives. As we continue looking to the future of the Gallery, we are actively exploring expansion opportunities in courthouses, schools, and other public spaces. The Board also hopes to fulfill Dom Tursi’s final vision before his passing: the creation of “The Library of Shorthand.”
Again, that word comes back into the forefront: perseverance. The shorthand profession has persevered for more than 5,000 years. It has continually adapted to the needs of society. The Gallery of Shorthand will continue to persevere as well and to educate the public about the profession’s historical importance.
Matt Tursi is the President of the Gallery of Shorthand and can be reached at galleryofshorthand@gmail.com.
The Gallery of Shorthand, based in Islip, N.Y., accepts tax-deductible donations (www.galleryofshorthand.com). Tursi also notes that if you are interested in helping expand the Gallery to a location near you, or if you have an item to donate, please reach out to him. .
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