Suffolk Reporter

The Brookhaven National Laboratory has announced the recipients of the 2023 Brookhaven Awards, recognizing key contributors in support functions for their outstanding service to the Laboratory.

Joe Gettler from the Stakeholder Relations Office was honored for his strategic communications efforts on behalf of the Lab. "Joe is a leader who helps others lead," stated the press release. He played a significant role in securing $100 million from New York State for Brookhaven's proposal to host the Electron-Ion Collider and organized focus groups for the Lab's rebranding initiative. His work extends to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility efforts internally and externally.

Steve Giordano from the Information Technology Division received recognition for his contributions as an Applications Architect over twenty-one years at Brookhaven. Steve started as the webmaster for the National Synchrotron Light Source (NSLS) and later contributed to projects such as transitioning NSLS-II’s proposal system into a shared application with other Department of Energy synchrotron facilities. His work on the Proposal Information Management System (PIMS) has been particularly impactful.

Maria Pacella from the Legal Office was awarded for her management of patent-related matters within the Intellectual Property Legal Group and Office of Technology Transfer (OTT). Her reforms in response to legal changes and collaboration with OTT have enhanced efficiency in patent operations. Maria's review of outside patent counsel invoices has resulted in significant cost savings.

Vincent Racaniello from the Environmental Protection Division was recognized for his role as a Groundwater Protection Group project manager. With 28 years at Brookhaven, Vincent managed eighteen groundwater remediation systems, including two recent PFAS treatment systems completed on time and under budget without safety incidents. His efforts have returned nearly 30 billion gallons of clean water to an aquifer, earning trust from regulatory agencies and enhancing environmental stewardship.

Timothy Welty from the Radiological Control Division was acknowledged for his expertise as a Radiological National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAPS) expert. Over one-and-a-half years, Tim secured NESHAPS application approval necessary for processing Thorium targets to extract Ac-225 by liaising effectively with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).