Meet Newton’s Employee, Innovator Of The Year 2021

NEWTON, MA — Mayor Ruthanne Fuller has presented the City of Newton Employee of the Year Award 2021 to Newton Police Officer Thomas Geagan and the City of Newton Innovator of the Year Award for 2021 to Workers Compensation and Safety Manager Kelly Brown.

Meet Newton’s Employee of the Year

Geagan grew up in Newton, attended Newton Public Schools, and took the oath of office as a Newton Police Officer in 1985. He currently works in the Support Service Bureau, which maintains police facilities and the fleet.

“Tom is the heart and soul of the Newton Police Headquarters,” said Fuller in a community update last week. “He is kindhearted, caring, and compassionate, always watching out for everyone else.”

Described by Fuller as “the guy we call,” Gaugin always arrives early to the police station and leaves late. He is also known for tackling a multitude of challenges, including cleaning drains, addressing issues with heating or air conditioning, and assisting with technological equipment. He is also the logistics planner for public events at headquarters.

“He is so committed to the City of Newton and the department,” said Chief John Carmichael in a statement. "Tom is always trying to make things better, always wanting to help.”

Meet Newton's Innovator of the Year

As Workers Compensation and Safety Manager, Brown is on the frontlines of adapting Newton City Hall to the new reality of masks, social distancing, sick leave, and vaccines. She is a Newton resident who has seven years of working for the city.

“Kelly is caring, responsive, incredibly intelligent and professional,” said Fuller. “She is endlessly patient. As the months of the pandemic wear on, she is extraordinarily giving of her time. In a sometimes shaky world, Kelly is a rock.”

Since the start of the pandemic, Brown has been working with the Newton Department of Health and Human Services and HR team to develop and revise workplace protocols. She has helped employees understand COVID-19 safety guidelines and get the support they need, and is the lead staff member in implementing and managing Newton’s vaccination policy.

"Over the course of the past twenty months, Kelly has shown an unfailing willingness to step up when needed and help us adapt and act thoughtfully in the face of continually changing information to help lead us through uncharted waters,” said Fuller.