Eastman lab technicians receive regional recognition

KINGSPORT — Two Eastman Chemical Co. lab technicians were recently recognized for their contributions to chemistry, community outreach and technical leadership. A release from the company states the duo were presented honors from the Tennessee-Virginia Highlands Section of the American Chemical Society. Jennifer Stapleton, a lab technician associate at Eastman's Kingsport site, received the Outstanding Volunteer Award for her long-standing leadership of National Chemistry Week's 4th Graders Day. She has been involved in organizing National Chemistry Week's 4th through her 15-year career at Eastman. For the past several years, Stapleton has served as chair of the event, which brings approximately 1,300 fourth-grade students each year for hands-on science learning experiences. The release states the event relies on a 250-person, all-volunteer team supporting multiple workstreams, including student escorts, interactive demonstrations, industry booths, school coordination and public relations. "Personally, the most rewarding part is being able to support the teachers by helping spark excitement about science in the students," Stapleton said in the release. "We only have them for one day, but the teachers have them for the whole year — so if we can inspire interest that carries back into the classroom, it can make a real difference." Emilie Madgett, a senior lab technician who also works in Kingsport was named Outstanding Technician, recognizing her technical expertise, mentorship and commitment to safety. This award recognizes Madgett's work across multiple technical areas, including PET depolymerization and scale-up, as well as her leadership in mentoring and safety. "All of these efforts are really built on teamwork," Madgett said in the release. "Whether it's technical work, mentoring, or safety — none of it happens alone. I'm proud to be part of a team that communicates well, supports each other, and works together to keep making progress." Both Stapleton and Madgett are part of the Specialty Synthesis and Formulations Group within Corporate Innovation Technology, according to the release. The honors were presented at the TVHS-ACS Annual Banquet on April 13 at Toy F. Reid Employee Center in Kingsport. Madgett's nomination has also been submitted for national consideration. TVHS-ACS recognizes individuals who have "made significant contributions to chemistry and science outreach throughout the region" each year, the release states.