2024 NAYGN Excellence Award Winner Biographies

Ryan Rood (Constellation West - Clinton) and Cahlor Stedman, Anjala Rai, Adam Reinholz (Xcel Energy)

Ryan Rood led a four-person team in representing NAYGN at CLEANPOWER 2024, a major clean energy conference with nearly 10,000 attendees. Through months of preparation, Ryan secured NAYGN’s membership in the American Clean Power organization, coordinated logistics, and successfully obtained a speaking opportunity, marking NAYGN’s first time presenting at the event. At the conference in Minneapolis, Cahlor Stedman, Anjala Rai, Adam Reinholz, and Christy Fletcher actively promoted nuclear energy, built valuable industry connections, and helped solidify nuclear’s presence in future clean energy discussions.

Heidi MacLeod (Chalk River)

Heidi MacLeod successfully hosted the third annual "Nuclear Industry Experience Exchange" for the Chalk River NAYGN Chapter, creating a unique professional development opportunity over a three-course dinner. The event paired NAYGN members with senior researchers to engage in meaningful conversations about topics such as hydrogen, advanced reactor technologies, and career development. Heidi led all aspects of the event, from planning and ticket sales to hosting. The chapter received overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees.

Jonathan Jeyarajah, Lateef Busari, Desmond Flowers, Jenell Hogg, Spring Fu, Arzika Khan, Pranavan Sambavalingam, Prashant Megnath (NAYGN Durham)

In 2024 Q2, the NAYGN Durham Professional Development Team organized seven events totaling a record-setting 633 professional development metric hours. These events, ranging from technical webinars to in-person panels and leadership talks, reached over 250 members and covered topics such as diversity, career advancement, and nuclear operations. With five in-person sessions and two webinars, the team demonstrated exceptional planning and innovation by offering hybrid formats that broadened access and engagement across the chapter.

Faiqa Anjum and Liz Uchida (Bruce Power)

These two student organizers of the Women in Leadership Panel for their outstanding efforts in bringing this impactful event to life. They demonstrated exceptional initiative, creativity, and collaboration by coordinating diverse panelists, shaping the agenda, promoting the event, and fostering an inclusive environment, all within a short timeline and with limited resources. Their work resulted in a highly successful and well-attended panel that inspired attendees, highlighted diverse voices, and set a strong precedent for future student-led initiatives.

Energy Northwest Young Generation in Nuclear

The Energy Northwest Young Generation in Nuclear (ENYGN) chapter has shown exceptional dedication to advancing nuclear awareness, professional growth, and community engagement. In 2024, the chapter has led STEM outreach efforts, supported career development through onboarding improvements and conference participation, and strengthened local connections through volunteer work, facility tours, and networking events. ENYGN’s diverse and committed membership has built a strong foundation for continued impact, making the chapter a strong candidate for an Excellence Award.