(Utica, NY- Jan. 2014) The Cardiac Research Institute at Masonic Medical Research Laboratory (MMRL) recognized several employees at their holiday party. Serge Sicouri, M.D. was recognized as employee of the year. Jose Di Diego, M.D. and David Maciewicz, CPA were also honored with an award for contributing to the success of the MMRL for the past 25 years.
When asked what this award means to him Dr. Sicouri said, “Although I know this represents a personal award, I consider this a consequence of the excellent research performed at our institute over the past many years. I am very proud of our achievements at the MMRL and the way we continue, through our research, to help diagnose and treat patients.” He is part of the team of Experimental Cardiologists that look into the cause of irregular heartbeats and discover new medications.
Dr. Sicouri also handles many other duties at the Laboratory including his love for students both in the form of student tours and Summer Fellows. He also provides tours for community members interested in the research conducted at the MMRL. Charles Antzelevitch, Ph.D., Executive Director and Director of Research at the MMRL said, “Serge has been a pillar of our Laboratory family for over two decades. He is unique in his caring and willingness to help his fellow employees at the MMRL. Over the years, he has contributed importantly to advancing the cause of science and medicine and has helped our Laboratory shine in the scientific community. He has always been a strong advocate of others receiving the employee of the year award and I am delighted to see him receive this extremely well-deserved and long-overdue honor. We are proud to recognize him as our Employee of the Year and are indeed honored to have him as a member of our team.”
Jose Di Diego, M.D., Manager of the Experimental Cardiology program at the MMRL, was also recognized at the annual holiday dinner for his 25 years of service to the MMRL. Dr. Antzelevitch commented, “Jose has spent his entire life doing research that improves the quality of life for all humanity. His discoveries have benefitted people in every corner of the world.”
David Maciewicz, CPA, also reached the milestone of 25 years with the MMRL. David is the Comptroller for the organization and has been carefully keeping track of the books for the institute for over a quarter of a century. Dr. Antzelevitch said of David, “We are grateful and very fortunate to have David as our Comptroller and for his steadfast commitment to this organization. He is an indispensable member of our team.”