Suffolk Reporter

The Stony Brook School of Health Professions held its 2025 Outstanding Alumni Awards event on March 26, recognizing distinguished graduates for their contributions to their fields. Faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends gathered to celebrate these achievements and hear the honorees' inspiring career stories.

Dean Stacy Jaffee Gropack expressed the special nature of the event: “The event was a joyous occasion that brought together our entire community — faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends. It was an evening filled with pride and inspiration as we celebrated the remarkable achievements of our alumni who are making significant impacts in their respective fields. This event not only highlighted their successes but also fostered a strong sense of community spirit and connection among all attendees. It was a night that truly showcased the power of our alumni network and the positive influence they have on the world.”

This year's Outstanding Alumni honorees are Nesheta Akhter, an expert in Applied Health Informatics from the class of 2014, and Christopher Caravella, class of 2009, who excelled in Health Science. Another honoree, Nina DePaola from the class of 1987, has made an impact in Physical Therapy, while Leah Holbrook, from the class of 2007, has influenced Health Care Policy Management. Other recipients include Tazia Shaw-Harrison (Clinical Laboratory Sciences, class of 2008), Brian Mitra (Health Science, class of 2001), Sasha Russ (Respiratory Care, class of 2012), Christopher Stoebe (Physician Assistant, class of 2005), Luke Schiele (Occupational Therapy, class of 2020), and Claudine Weiner (Athletic Training, class of 1993).

Photos from the event are available for viewing.