Samuel L. Stanley, Jr.

This Seattle transplant and Harvard Medical School grad has had no problem ingratiating himself to Long Islanders, thanks to his endearing personality and the pivotal role he’s played in fostering innovation at one of the country’s most prestigious academic and research institutions, Stony Brook University. The school’s fifth president, Dr. Stanley has been busy since taking the job in 2011: He successfully lobbied state lawmakers to pass legislation that will allow Stony Brook to hire 240 new faculty members over the next several years. He’s made fundraising a top priority, and under his guidance, the university has generated $4.7 billion annually in regional economic impact. Dr. Stanley’s passion is not limited to Stony Brook University. Under his leadership, the school also launched a program dubbed “Discovery Fund” to raise money for sorely needed scientific research projects. The distinguished biomedical researcher is also co-chair of Brookhaven Science Associates, which co-manages Brookhaven National Laboratory, and he additionally serves on the board of the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. It goes without saying that Long Island is beyond lucky to have one of the greatest minds in the country leading this prestigious, local institution to new heights.