Nominations Open For 2026 City Of Stamford Citizen Of The Year

STAMFORD, CT — Stamford has begun accepting nominations for its 2026 Citizen of the Year, Mayor Caroline Simmons announced this week.

The annual award, founded in 1945, recognizes residents who make lasting contributions to the community through civic engagement, public service, and leadership.

"The City of Stamford has many dedicated and committed residents who make remarkable contributions to our community," Simmons said in a news release. "Each year, the Citizen of the Year award recognizes Stamford residents who make a lasting impact in our community. I invite everyone to nominate those whose commitment, kindness, and leadership help make Stamford one of the best places to live."

Selection Committee

The 2026 selection committee includes past honorees Jevera Kaye and William Hennessey (2023), Adriana Molina (2024), and Harry Day (2025), along with Stephen Fischer of the Jewish War Veterans Post 142, Rabbi Daniel Cohen of Congregation Agudath Sholom, and the Rev. Winton M. Hill III, the 2002 honoree.

"It’s always wonderful to celebrate our COTY’s dedication and commitment to Stamford through their impactful service," said committee co-chair Gary H. Stone.

Rick Redniss, also a co-chair, noted, "Honoring veterans and high school seniors for their deep commitment to Stamford echoes to the celebration."

Bill and Jevera Hennessey added, "We are honored to be chairing the committee to select the next Citizen of the Year and carry on this 80-year tradition."

Criteria and Deadline

The award’s criteria, unchanged since its founding, call for nominees who demonstrate interfaith harmony, civic responsibility, promotion of public welfare projects, and a meaningful connection to Stamford.

Nominations must include a bullet point summary of the nominee’s background in line with the criteria. Submissions are due by Friday, Dec. 14, and can be made online at stamfordcoty.org, by email at info@StamfordCOTY.org, or by mail to the Nominations Committee at 48 Putter Drive, Stamford, CT, 06907.

The Citizen of the Year program was established by Fred Robbins, a veteran of both World Wars, and then-Mayor Webster Givens with support from the Jewish War Veterans Post 142.