Suffolk Legislature Celebrates Lifesaving Caregivers

A diverse and inspiring group of heroes were recognized for making significant contributions to healthcare during a special presentation at the Suffolk Legislature.

Since 2021, legislators have recognized “Healthcare Heroes” from across the county’s 18 districts. The annual initiative grew out of the designation of June as Healthcare Heroes Month and honors the extraordinary contributions of healthcare professionals and organizations dedicated to serving county residents.

“As the descriptions of the achievements and credentials of the incredible honorees were read, it was impossible not to be impressed by their commitment to Suffolk’s healthcare,” said Presiding Officer Anthony A. Piccirillo, who sponsored the original legation five years ago. “These dedicated individuals selected by my colleagues represent a wide range of skills, specialties, and experience—practiced with care and compassion for patients and the community.”

“From my own district, I was proud to recognize Dr. Nicole Mascellaro, EdD, MBA, MSN, RN CHPN, currently Nurse Manager of Hospice Services at NYU Langone Health, where she leads an interdisciplinary team dedicated to providing compassionate, patient- and family-centered end-of-life care throughout Suffolk County,” said Piccirillo.

“With more than three decades of nursing experience spanning critical care, leadership, education, and hospice, she is recognized for her commitment to quality nursing care, clinical excellence, staff development, and innovation in palliative and hospice care. She has also contributed original research and published on the subject, reflecting her dedication to advancing nursing practice and improving patient outcomes.”

This year’s honorees: District 1: Legislator Greg Doroski — Peconic Bay Medical Center, Riverhead District 2: Legislator Ann Welker — Mary Crosby, East End Hospice, Southampton District 3: Legislator Jim Mazzarella — Tracy Ommundsen, Brookhaven District 4: Legislator Nick Caracappa — Dr. Kareem Nugdalla, DNP, Coram District 5: Legislator Steve Englebright — Michelle Nash, MD, East Setauket District 6: Legislator Chad Lennon — Ryan McDonald, Sound Beach District 7: Legislator Dominick Thorne — Christina Leddin, Patchogue District 8: Legislator Anthony Piccirillo — Dr. Nicole Mascellaro, EdD, MBA, RN, Sayville District 9: Legislator Samuel Gonzalez — Marie Boyle, BSN, RN, East Islip District 11: Legislator Steve Flotteron — Laura Martin, RN, MBA, West Islip District 12: Legislator Leslie Kennedy — Susan D’Allessandro, Smithtown District 13: Legislator Sal Formica — Faith Mancuso, Commack District 14: Legislator Richard J. Renna — Diana McDermott, CNA, West Babylon District 15: Legislator Jason Richberg — Alvita Felix, North Babylon District 16: Legislator Rebecca Sanin — Dr. Camille A. Gooden-Bost, MD, Dix Hills District 17: Legislator Tom Donnelly — Cheryl Otero, Deer Park District 18: Legislator Stephanie Bontempi — Dr. Raymond A. Mascolo, East Northport.