Congratulations to our Executive Director, Thomas S. Gunning who has been named the 2024 Martin J. Walsh Alumni Award Winner for his commitment to recovery and building wellness. We know that so much of Tom's recovery work is possible due to the army of support behind him, including our BTEA Board of Directors, Labor/Management Partners and so many colleagues who are also working tirelessly to combat this epidemic. Thank you to Gosnold Behavioral Health for this incredible recognition and for your ongoing recovery support within the union building trades.
We’re Proud to Announce Our 2024 Martin J. Walsh Alumni Award Winner: Thomas S. Gunning! Gosnold is honored to recognize Tom Gunning, Executive Director of the Building Trades Employers’ Association Northeast, as the recipient of this year’s Martin J. Walsh Alumni Award. Tom’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and unwavering commitment to giving back to the recovery community. After struggling with addiction to opioids and alcohol for over a decade, stemming from a college baseball injury, Tom has not only turned his life around but has also become a beacon of hope for others facing similar battles. His journey has been marked by significant challenges—including legal issues, two overdoses, and periods of homelessness—but through it all, Tom has persevered, finding sobriety through the support of Gosnold. Tom's recovery is more than just personal triumph; it’s about the impact he’s had on countless others. He is the driving force behind BTEA’s Building Trades Recovery Week, a groundbreaking initiative he created to raise awareness about substance use disorder and mental health challenges in the union construction industry. What began as a single week of outreach has now evolved into a year-round effort, providing a critical platform for individuals to seek help and start their own recovery journeys. Recovery Week has seen record attendance and outreach, helping countless individuals in the building trades community break the stigma around addiction and mental health struggles. Tom is the first to credit the success of this initiative to the collaborative efforts of the BTEA Board of Directors, labor management partners, and his colleagues, including Shawn Nehiley of the Iron Workers District Council of New England. However, it’s Tom’s tireless dedication and personal investment in the lives of those he helps—whether it’s answering late-night calls or taking action in the moment—that truly stands out. Tom’s commitment extends beyond his professional work. As a father, husband, son, and friend, he has shown the power of recovery to rebuild relationships and inspire others to pursue healing. His journey is a testament to the life-changing impact of recovery, and we are proud to honor him with this prestigious award. Congratulations, Tom, on this well-deserved recognition! Join us in celebrating his remarkable achievements and the positive change he continues to bring to the recovery community. #Gosnold #Recovery #MartinJWalshAlumniAward #Inspiration #Community #GosnoldCares #Nonprofit #SupportNonprofits #RecoveryWeek #BuildingTradesRecovery #Hope #NonprofitOrganization #Nonprofits