'Selfless Spirit': Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital Nurse Honored With Laura Goodale Award

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GREENPORT, NY — A nurse at Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital was honored with an award that carries on the legacy of the North Fork's "Florence Nightingale."

Patricia McArdle, RN and director of infection prevention and control, was the recipient of the 2026 Laura Goodale Award, SBELIH said.

Presented annually by the Rotary Clubs of Southold and Greenport, "this prestigious honor recognizes individuals who exemplify the selfless spirit of Laura Goodale, a beloved former Eastern Long Island Hospital nurse of 42 years known for her extraordinary service, compassion, and commitment to the community," SBELIH said.

The evening began with a reflection on the "remarkable legacy" of Laura Goodale, often referred to as the "Florence Nightingale of the North Fork," SBELIH said.

SBELIH added: "Laura began caring for patients on the North Fork in 1918 and went on to devote more than four decades to Eastern Long Island Hospital, assisting in surgeries, caring for generations of families, and helping deliver more than 2,000 babies. Her kindness, skill, and devotion to her patients established a standard of excellence that continues to inspire caregivers today."

This year's recipient, McArdle, was recognized by her peers "for a career defined by service, expertise, mentorship, and heart," SBELIH said.

McArdle began her journey at SBELIH in 1999 and has served in numerous roles throughout the organization, hospital officials said.

"During the COVID-19 pandemic, she became a trusted leader and calming presence, ensuring infection prevention standards were followed while educating, supporting, and reassuring staff during one of the most challenging periods in healthcare history," SBELIH said. "Known for her accessibility, positivity, and sense of humor, Pat is rarely found behind a desk. Instead, she is out on the units teaching, guiding, supporting colleagues, and building connections throughout the hospital."

And, officials added: "Her commitment to excellence extends beyond SBELIH through her professional leadership, continued education, and dedication to advancing best practices in infection prevention and patient safety."

Annalisa Monahan, chief nursing officer and senior vice president of Patient Care Services, praised Pat’s leadership, saying she "leads with knowledge, but also humanity. She holds high standards while making people feel supported, keeps patients safe while never losing sight of the people doing the work, and reminds us all that kindness and humor are powerful forms of leadership."

Paul Connor, chief administrative officer, reflected on the many remarkable nurses who have received the honor over the past 41 years and noted that McArdle "joins an extraordinary group of caregivers whose contributions have shaped the history and culture of our hospital."