Two members of the Stony Brook University Hospital (SBUH) leadership team, Carol Gomez, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer, and Carolyn Santora, Chief Nursing Officer and Chief Regulatory Officer, announced on September 18 The company was awarded the 2024 Herald Excellence in Healthcare Award at the third annual awards ceremony held on Sunday. Heritage Club in Bethpage, New York.
This award recognizes health professionals whose dedication and contributions make a difference in the health and well-being of others for their impact, unparalleled research, and innovative programs and services in Long Island communities. We will recognize individuals who have
HERALD Excellence in Healthcare Award recipients are selected by a committee based on their strength and passion for advocating for and leading both their organizations and their communities.
Mr. Gomez, who holds two master's degrees from Stony Brook University, has worked in the medical field for more than 30 years and taught at the School of Health Professions. She holds various designations, including Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.
She has received numerous leadership awards, including the Long Island Business News Healthcare Heroes Award, the American Society of Clinical Pathology's Master of Science Award, and the Stony Brook Council Award for Excellence. Gomez currently serves as chair of the Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Board of Directors and has held leadership roles on the Stony Brook University Alumni Association Board of Directors.
In a Q&A with the Herald, Gomez said there are many accomplishments that make him proud to be part of the Stony Brook Medicine family. “We continue to lead regionally and nationally for our commitment to sustainability, quality and patient safety, and health equity.Last year, Stony Brook Medicine was recognized for our commitment to sustainability, quality and patient safety, and health equity. We have stepped up our efforts to foster connections within our community to promote and meet patient needs to support a healthier patient population.”
Santora earned her master's degree in critical care nursing from Stony Brook University and is dually trained as a critical care nurse practitioner and clinical nurse specialist. She held progressive management positions at SBUH and was appointed permanently as Chief Nursing Officer and Chief Regulatory Officer in July 2020.
One of the hospital's founding staff members, Ms. Santora, who began working as a clinician in the 1st Surgical Unit in 1979, is nationally known for her expertise in emergency department overcrowding. We also publish related publications. She holds certification as a Nursing Executive from the American Nurses Credentialing Center, advanced certification as a Healthcare Quality Specialist, and is a Hospital Certification Specialist.
Santora said her biggest inspiration comes from the nurses who interact with patients every day and hour. “Essential members of the health care team use their skills, knowledge and compassion to make a difference in the lives of others.”
Michelle Baran, professor and associate dean for research at the Stony Brook School of Social Work, was also recognized for her research, teaching and service work on behalf of individuals with disabilities and their families.
