CONGRESSIONAL ENERGY ENGAGEMENT FOUNDATION HOSTS THE ICON CHAMPIONS OF NUCLEAR AWARDS
- Michelle Harstine
- Jun 19
- 2 min read
WASHINGTON, D.C. — June 5, 2025 — The Congressional Energy Engagement Foundation (CEEF), widely regarded as the trusted bridge between Congress and the nuclear energy community, hosted its prestigious ICON Awards Reception in Washington, D.C., honoring Members of Congress for their consistent engagement and support of CEEF’s mission and its signature “rooms of engagement.”
Founded and led by Michelle Amante-Harstine, CEEF is known for its quiet, behind-the-scenes approach—creating what it calls “rooms of engagement,” curated gatherings that often support and uplift the goals of other organizations. CEEF works alongside industry, national laboratories, global partners, universities, and the Administration, connecting them with legislators in spaces that foster trust, shape energy directives, and strengthen U.S. energy leadership.
CEEF also works with embassies and industry partners on strategic initiatives that inform and educate Members of Congress, supporting a deeper understanding of global energy leadership and innovation with nuclear energy at the forefront.
The evening was widely noted as one of the most personal and engaging receptions in recent memory—heartfelt, meaningful, and filled with genuine connection. You could feel the presence of true friendships and trust that have been developed over years of quiet collaboration and shared purpose. It was more than an event—it was a reflection of the strong relationships at the core of CEEF’s mission.
The event celebrated 17 select Members of Congress, recognizing their years of ongoing participation in CEEF-led engagements and their role in advancing innovation and collaboration across the nuclear sector.
One of the highlights of the evening was House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA), who addressed the audience early in the program. Leader Scalise offered strong support for CEEF’s mission and emphasized the critical role of nuclear energy in ensuring both national security and economic prosperity for future generations.
The evening’s Featured Speaker and honoree of an ICON Champion of Nuclear Award, the Honorable Brandon Williams, a former Member of Congress from New York and U.S. Navy submarine officer, was recognized for his steadfast, consistent, and ongoing support of CEEF and its collaborative approach to nuclear engagement. Congressman Williams, who has been nominated to serve as the next Administrator of the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), spoke passionately about the strategic importance of nuclear energy and the bipartisan relationships CEEF helps foster across government and industry.
In another powerful moment, Seth Grae, CEO of Lightbridge Corporation, CEEF Board Member and Founding Patron, presented a ICON Champion of Nuclear Award for Time-Honored Support to Congressman Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN) Chairman of the House Energy and Water Subcommittee on Appropriations, recognizing his years of leadership and commitment to advancing the nation’s nuclear priorities. Grae is also Chairman of the American Nuclear Society’s International Council.
The ICON Awards Reception reflected the essence of CEEF’s work: cultivating trust, forging relationships, and advancing bipartisan collaboration in support of nuclear energy leadership and innovation.
📸 Event photos to be posted soon 🔗 Learn more: www.usceef.org
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