2024 Connecticut Democracy Center Awards

The Connecticut Democracy Center (CTDC) hosted the premiere
Connecticut Democracy Center Awards at Connecticut’s Old State House on February 1, 2024, to pay tribute the following community, business, and philanthropic leaders:

The Honorable Alvin W. Thompson
CTDC COMMUNITY LEADER AWARD

Citizen Travelers, the non-partisan civic engagement initiative of The Travelers Companies, Inc.
CTDC BUSINESS LEADER AWARD

In memory of Mary Gawlicki, The Gawlicki Family Foundation
PHILANTHROPIC LEADER AWARD

CTDC has established this new award to celebrate Connecticut residents committed to strengthening democracy through acts of citizenship, service, and community engagement.

Guests enjoyed an inspirational conversation, moderated by Anita Ford Saunders, APR, on how our award winners found their passion for community and civic engagement. Guests also enjoyed a champagne toast while networking with business professionals, educators, and community leaders equally committed to improving the quality of life in Connecticut.

Thank you to Brian Ambrose Photography for capturing these special moments.

To download the official press release, click here.

COCKTAIL RECEPTION SPONSORS

CHAMPAGNE TOAST SPONSORS

DEMOCRACY CHAMPION
Connecticut Health Foundation
Bigelow Tea
Halloran Sage
Deirdre O’Connor
Sue and Greg Porcello
Jim and Cathy Smith
Pat and Jane Sheehan

Shipman & Goodwin LLP

DEMOCRACY SUPPORTER
CohnReznick
Alice Gold
Michael Imber
Elsie Mata
Ms President US

ABOUT THE 2024 AWARD WINNERS

Portfolio

The Honorable Alvin W. Thompson
CTDC COMMUNITY LEADER AWARD

Appointed U.S. District Judge for the District of Connecticut in 1994, Honorable Judge Alvin W. Thompson is known for his substantial contributions to the administration of justice in the state. As the Chair of the District of Connecticut’s Public Outreach Committee, he has been equally dedicated to educating young people and the public about the vital role federal courts, judges, and lawyers play in preserving the rule of law. This includes establishing partnerships between federal judges, attorneys, educators, students, community groups, and court personnel to open the federal courthouses in Connecticut for learning opportunities for students. Judge Thompson humanizes the justice system by visiting schools, appearing on career panels, and inviting young people to attend naturalization ceremonies. He has also helped organize the Warren W. Eginton Justice Institute, a week-long summer program for high school students that includes instructional experiences focused on civil and criminal litigation and a Mock Trial competition. His commitment to democratic ideals including equity, inclusiveness, and accessibility can be found in his written words, courtroom, and through public service to his community.

Portfolio

Citizen Travelers, the non-partisan civic engagement initiative of The Travelers Companies, Inc.
CTDC BUSINESS LEADER AWARD

Travelers understands that a healthy private sector depends on durable and reliable public institutions and they are invested in strengthening both. That’s why they created Citizen Travelers. Through in-house programming and nonprofit partnerships, they provide 30,000 employees with the resources and support to engage in our democracy as informed citizens and help shape the civic life of their communities.

Portfolio

Mary Gawlicki
CTDC PHILANTHROPIC LEADER AWARD

In 1990, Mary and her husband, Ted Gawlicki, teamed up to found Corporate Translations Inc.(CTi). After growing the company, she co-founded the Gawlicki Family Foundation to offer grants to Connecticut and Northeast U.S.-based non-profits committed to transformative change in education, pulmonary health, and municipal and economic development. Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded nearly $7 million to over 50 organizations, upholding the belief that private dollars power public progress. This award is presented in memory of Mary who who served on the Connecticut Democracy Center Board from 2018 to 2023.