Brookhaven's Women Leaders Recognized In Town Ceremony

FARMINGVILLE, NY — The 2026 honorees of Brookhaven's Women's Recognition Awards were feted recently at special ceremony at Town Hall.

The event, sponsored by the town's Office of Women's Services, Department of General Services, honors women nominated by the community, either live or work in the town, and have demonstrated excellence in their areas of expertise.

Nominations were considered by members of Brookhaven's Women's Advisory Board and selected based on resumes and letters of recommendation.

The event was emceed by News 12 reporter Antoinette Biordi

The award recipients were:

Arts: Dr. Tammy Nuzzo-Morgan, Mastic Beach

Business: Maria F. Camassa, Lake Grove

Community Services/Professional: Laura Mullen, Patchogue

Community Service Volunteer: Irina Richardson, Yaphank

Education: Monica Pullows-Tetuan, St. James

South Country School District First Responder: Ellen B. Komosinski

Brookhaven Government: Josephine Lunde, Medford

Health Care Provider: Nicole Amendola, Rocky Point

Legal Profession: Dana M. Castaldo, Shoreham

Medicine: Professor Anissa Abi-Dargham, East Setauket

Military: Phyllis Boccio, Selden

Religion: Bettina Pennon, Mastic Beach

Science: Dr. Elke Aschenauer, Rocky Point

2026 Town Board Special Commendation Awards:
Supervisor Daniel J. Panico – Hon. Angie M. Carpenter

Councilman Jonathan Kornreich – Sydell Costell

Councilwoman Jane Bonner – Kathleen Weber

Councilman Neil A. Manzella – Rita Tsoukaris

Councilman Michael Loguercio- Katherine Fritz

Councilman Neil Foley – Samantha Maria Ciardullo

Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig – Kim Swicicki