Sackett Family Genealogy & History

Susan Sackett, an accomplished American author and screenwriter, is renowned for her significant contributions to the Star Trek franchise. She worked closely with creator Gene Roddenberry as his personal executive assistant for over 17 years, influencing both the television series and films. Sackett co-wrote several Star Trek: The Next Generation episodes and authored multiple books about the series, enhancing her reputation in the entertainment industry. Additionally, she is recognized for her humanist advocacy, serving on various boards and as a certified humanist celebrant.

David Lawrence Sackett (1934–2015) was a pioneering American-Canadian physician renowned for his seminal contributions to evidence-based medicine and clinical epidemiology. Sackett founded the world's first Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics department at McMaster University and later established the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine. His groundbreaking research advanced health care by demonstrating the life-saving benefits of aspirin and the effectiveness of nurse practitioners. Sackett's influential textbooks, including "Clinical Epidemiology" and "Evidence-Based Medicine," have reshaped medical practice worldwide, establishing him as one of the fathers of modern clinical epidemiology alongside Archie Cochrane and Alvan Feinstein.

Nathaniel Sackett (1737–1805) is renowned as a spymaster during the American Revolution, appointed by George Washington to establish a civilian spy network in New York. Although Sackett initially organized the network, his progress was limited, leading to his replacement by Benjamin Tallmadge, who formed the Culper Spy Ring. Sackett also served on the New York Committee for Detecting and Defeating Conspiracies and was involved in local safety committees. His efforts laid the groundwork for espionage activities crucial to the American cause.

Born in Orange County, New York, Nathaniel Sackett was the son of Rev. Samuel Sackett and Hannah Hazard. He began his career in trade with his uncle, Nathaniel Hazard, and later opened the first general store in Fishkill, New York. Nathaniel married Mary Rogers, and together they had five children, continuing the Sackett family legacy in New York.

Penny Diane Sackett is a renowned American-born Australian astronomer, celebrated for her roles as the Chief Scientist of Australia and director of the Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics at the Australian National University. Known for her expertise in extrasolar planets, dark matter, and galactic structure, Sackett has been instrumental in astronomical discoveries, including the planet OGLE-2005-BLG-390Lb. Her leadership in reconstructing the Mount Stromlo Observatory and her involvement with the Giant Magellan Telescope project highlight her significant contributions to science and research management.

Born in Lincoln, Nebraska, Sackett is the daughter of an accountant and a business machine technician. She spent her formative years in Omaha, where her interest in science was nurtured.