AARST_Radon_Reporter_Q42025

16 | DECEMBER 2025 The Indoor Environments Association held its annual awards gathering on Tuesday, October 28 during its annual meeting during Indoor Environments 2025, Radon and Vapor Intrusion Symposium. The ceremony opened with a special presentation from the Conference of Radiation Control Program Directors (CRCPD), where Kim Steves awarded the Suzie Shimek Radon Hero Award to Joshua Kerber and Gary Hodgden. CRCPD Suzie Shimek Radon Hero Award: Joshua Kerber Josh Kerber has positioned Minnesota as a national and international leader in radon protection and regulation. Serving on the E-25 Committee on Radon since 2013 and chairing it for the past four years, he has dedicated hundreds of volunteer hours to advancing radon risk reduction and building technical capacity. His leadership includes guiding E-25’s symposium programming, developing comments on federal and international guidance, and supporting state and tribal radon programs. Josh also serves on the National Radon Action Plan leadership council, represents CRCPD on the President’s Moonshot Roundtable on Cancer Prevention, and chairs the SSR-R Regulations for Radon Committee. His work with IAEA and CRCPD continues to strengthen radon policy, education, and collaboration, making him a trusted leader in the field. CRCPD Suzie Shimek Radon Hero Award: Gary Hodgden Gary Hodgden has been a steadfast advocate for radon awareness and protection, dedicating decades of service to advancing public health and professional practice. His leadership has been instrumental in building technical capacity and strengthening collaboration across states and organizations. Gary has contributed to numerous CRCPD initiatives, offering guidance on radon program development, regulatory improvements, and outreach strategies that have expanded testing and mitigation nationwide. He is widely respected for his mentorship of professionals and his ability to translate technical expertise into practical solutions for communities. Through his commitment, Gary has helped shape national radon policy, fostered stronger partnerships, and ensured that radon risk reduction remains a priority at both the state and national levels. IEA President Dave Hill presented IEA’s awards, recognizing individuals who have demonstrated outstanding excellence in advancing radon and vapor intrusion awareness, mitigation, and professional practice. IEA Music Video Award Winner: Rachel Peterson Rachel Peterson was honored for her creative and engaging entry in IEA’s second annual Music Video Contest. Rachel performed vocalswhile playingmandolin, accompanied by her husband on banjo. Their submission paired spirited music with lyrics that emphasized radon testing, education, and the importance of mitigation. By blending creativity, traditional bluegrass style, and public health messaging, Rachel and her husband brought radon awareness to new audiences and demonstrated how innovative outreach can make a lasting impact. IEA Radon Community Impact Award – Public Ally: Carolee Cooper Carolee Cooper was recognized for her outstanding leadership in expanding radon awareness and mitigation across Idaho and the Northwest. As part of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare and co-chair of the Northwest Radon Coalition, she has recruited qualified Celebrating Excellence: Leaders in Radon and Vapor Intrusion at 2025 Symposium AWARDS CRCPD Executive Director Lisa Bruedigan, Radon Heroes Josh Kerber and Gary Hodgden, CRCPD Associate Kim Steves.