Thomas E. Murray, Jr. of the Eastern Long Island Board of Trustees has been named the 2015 recipient of the Theodore Roosevelt Award.
“The Theodore Roosevelt Award, established by the Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council in 1958, is inspired by the 26th President of the United States, Teddy Roosevelt, a man of action and vigor. This very prestigious award recognizes individuals for their outstanding voluntary contributions at community hospitals throughout Long Island,” Paul J. Connor III, President and CEO of ELIH, said.
“We are especially pleased to honor Tom, whose perseverance, energy and financial expertise helps ELIH continue to fulfill its mission,” Dr. Frank J. Adipietro, Jr., medical staff president and fellow board member, added. “The award-winning care and essential healthcare services ELIH provides for the North Fork and Shelter Island communities is a testament to his commitment, and hard work over the years.”
Murray began serving on the Board of Trustees in 1999 and accepted the role of chairman of the board in February, 2003. During his tenure, Murray has been actively involved in “rebuilding the hospital from the inside out,” according to an ELIH release.
Hospital-wide projects have included the reconstruction of the emergency department, the addition of acute beds in psychiatry and addiction services, the expansion of the imaging department to accommodate the acquisition of a state-of-the-art MRI and digital mammography system as well as a new Ambulatory Care Pavilion and a complete renovation and recapitalization of the laboratory.
“Tom’s dedication is evidenced by his willingness to step forward at a time when healthcare is experiencing critical changes. He provides excellent leadership to ensure the best representation between the hospital and the communities served by ELIH,” Connor said. “Placing the importance of philanthropy at the forefront of planning, Tom led the board through the process of setting up a supporting foundation (503(9)) for ELIH in 2006. Tom continues to serve on the board of the foundation as well as chairman of the board of trustees.”
Additionally, Murray’s leadership was “invaluable” during the establishment of the East End Health Alliance with Eastern Long Island Hospital and two East End Hospitals, Peconic Bay Medical Center and Southampton Hospital, the release said.
Murray continues to serve on the parent board of the Alliance and has since 2008, and presently holds the position of Second Vice Chair.
Formerly president and CEO of Hamilton Federal Savings and Loan in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, Murray spent over 30 years in the banking industry before retiring to the North Fork in 1992.
Murray currently resides in Orient with his wife Ursula.
A dinner celebration is planned for late spring or early summer. At that time, the Board of Trustees will officially present Tom with the 2015 Theodore Roosevelt Award.
