Named Awards

Dorothy Adams was a beloved teacher and principal at the wooden Bridge Street School and its later brick incarnation, Saugatuck Elementary.  She retired in 1952 and is still remembered as a common-sense educator, sympathetic to kids in need.  A disciplinarian with a desire to find the best in each student, her stay-after-school punishment sometimes ended with stamp trading, as she was an avid philatelist.  Her interest in education came naturally.  Her grandfather, Ebenezer Banks Adams, operated Adams Academy on Morningside Drive North for 30 years starting in 1837.

Steve and Tammy Barry have three children that graduated from Staples High School, well prepared for their individual college experiences. Their guiding principle is “Education is a gift” and have made access to it a philanthropic priority. By endowing this scholarship, they hope to lessen the financial burden often associated with attaining a higher education. As a wise investment in talented Staples students, the Barry family believes the return will be felt for years to come.

Dr. Jean Beasley was a female African-American pediatrician, one of the first in the country. She practiced with her husband, Dr. Albert Beasley, in Westport. Her career was cut short when she died at a young age.

In March of 2015, the Westport Weston Family YMCA received a very generous gift from the estate of Ruth T. Bedford. Ms. Bedford, a YMCA trustee emeritus, a philanthropist, and a strong advocate for the YMCA, continued the family legacy with her gift. Her grandfather, Edward T. Bedford, established the first Westport YMCA in 1923. In 1944, Edward’s son, Frederick T. Bedford and his wife (Ruth’s parents) provided the funding that made it possible to buy Camp Mahackeno, the YMCA’s summer day camp where the current facility is located. Ms. Bedford was instrumental in helping the YMCA to renovate and expand its original downtown Westport location during the 1980s. Ms. Bedford’s gift will continue to allow the YMCA to be a leader in the community and change lives for the next 100 years. In 2015, the YMCA Board of Trustees established the Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund (the “Fund”) to give back to the community and carry forward the legacy of Ruth Bedford. The initial endowment of the Fund was $5 million and earnings from this endowment will support one-year grants to one or more local programs, which will be selected through an annual grant process. The purpose of the Fund is to provide grants to organizations that focus on closing the “achievement gap” in education. Grants are intended to enhance educational opportunities in a transformational way and, as a result, may include a wide range of programs.

Beatrice was known as a realtor in Westport and as a PTA volunteer, but she began her career at NBC and at the United Nations. Her tremendous sense of humor and extraordinary positive attitude inspired her three children, all Staples graduates, and everyone who knew her.

Andrea and Evan Berkley moved to Westport in 2002 and have three children in the Westport Public Schools. When introduced to the work being done by Staples Tuition Grants, they were inspired by the power of collective giving to support students pursuing the dream of a higher education. Every day Westporters generously share their time and talents with young people in this community – in schools, on fields, and at extra-curricular activities. The Berkley family’s commitment to STG is one more way to let these young people know that their community is invested in them and the next chapter of their lives.

Melissa and Doug Bernstein both had the pleasure of growing up in the best town in America, Westport, and graduating from the best high school in the world, Staples.  Now with six children of their own, all going through the Westport Public School program, Melissa and Doug are thrilled to give back to this community they love so much.

Bruce Betts coached many sports in Westport, and spent over four decades as a Staples, middle school and elementary physical education teacher. He is best known for founding the Staples boys volleyball program, and turning it into a perennial state powerhouse.  He was always stressing the importance of family, school and being part of a team.  These principles were important to Bruce and he wanted them reflected in his players. Volleyball was just a vehicle to help connect him with not only his players, but all students at Staples.  The ever-smiling Bruce is a Staples graduate himself, Class of 1965.

Diana Bowes and her family established this scholarship in 2010. Believing that the Town of Westport “does such a phenomenal job of educating it’s kids, culminating with Staples”. Diana hopes the award “will allow students to build on the strong, rich education they receive here.”

A 2010 graduate of Staples, Cameron Bruce was an engineering student at Queen’s University in Canada when he died in an accident early in his freshman year. He was an accomplished musician, playing trumpet with the Staples symphonic orchestra, band, and jazz band. He played “Taps” at Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies in Westport. He was a 4-year varsity swimmer, serving as captain of the team, and earned Academic All-American honors. Cameron was also an AP scholar with Distinction and Commended 2010 National Merit Scholar. He was active in Staples Players and served as a deacon at Saugatuck Congregational Church.

Josephine Brummel was an active member of the Staples High School Music Department and served as accompanist for various Staples musical groups from 1965 to 1981. In addition to her work as an accompanist, she had numerous private piano students in the Westport area and was very active with local and regional arts and music groups. Her Westport legacy has carried through to her work in Santa Barbara, CA where she is a member of the faculty at Santa Barbara City College.

In 1964, Kenneth Brummel came to Westport as a 28-year-old English teacher, and soon was named principal of Bedford Junior High School. He subsequently served for 12 years as Westport’s superintendent of schools. Ken was a strong advocate for student achievement and educational advancement. He was also an innovative educator and a proponent of new ideas for administrators and teachers. His mark on Westport’s students, staff and schools has been long and enduring.

“Gus” was a devoted son, brother and friend at Staples High School and at Providence College. His gift in this life was making others happy. He was a kind, old soul who had an incredible ability to make people laugh, to boost their confidence and to ensure that nobody took themselves too seriously. He was motivated by bringing joy to others. We hope his memorial scholarship will help others develop their passions, remember his kindness, and continue his legacy of love and laughter.

Richard was a devoted father of five and a Princeton University and Harvard Law School graduate. He was also a supporter of education and academics in Westport, at all levels and in all ways.

Noel Pasacreta de Caprio was a member of the Staples Class of 1957. She was the founder and owner of Noelle Spa for Beauty and Wellness in Stamford and a pioneer in her industry as the creator of the day spa concept. In 1987, following a diagnosis of breast cancer, she incorporated healing, wellness and aesthetics into her business so that others affected by cancer could still feel healthy and beautiful. She died in 1998.

Formed in the 1960s to further the aims of the local, state and national party, the Democratic Women of Westport gives this annual award to a worthy female student with an interest in, and desire to study or be involved in the political process.

Maggie Mudd and Fulvio Dobrich moved to Westport in 1994, the year they were married. Their three children were educated in Westport’s public schools. By establishing this award, the family supports the academic ambitions of students interested in becoming responsible global citizens.

John Dodig retired in 2015 after serving eleven years as the principal of Staples High School. He left an indelible mark on the school as a caring, compassionate, energetic and enthusiastic leader. John maintained Staples’ very high academic, artistic and athletic standards while creating an atmosphere of community and inclusion that teachers and students genuinely loved. Born in New York City and raised in New Haven, John began working in his parents’ restaurant at 13. He earned a BA degree from Southern Connecticut State University, and a master’s degree at Fairfield University. After graduation, John volunteered to work for the Jesuit Foreign Mission at Al Hikma University in Baghdad, Iraq as an assistant professor. A year later he fled the country with his co-workers when the government was overthrown. John has traveled to over 50 countries. He has taught middle school math in New Haven, and he has served as an assistant principal and as principal in several Connecticut communities. John was named Principal of the Year in both 1991 and in 2015.

Doug Donovan, Staples Class of 1979, was a talented student and Staples soccer player who went on to excel at Lehigh University. He was just beginning his career as a civil engineer when he died in an automobile accident. At the time of his death, he was working on plans for what later became Wakeman Park. After the passing of Doug’s parents, Mollie and Jack, the Donovan family requested that contributions made in their memory go to this STG award.

Rachel was an original. Her simple beauty, graceful leadership and creative intelligence were only part of her story. She was a wise, kind, old soul with incredible drive and diverse interests. Her talents reached far beyond the classroom; she was an incredible seamstress, artist, and cook. She created “Rachel’s Rags” pajama bottoms and cooked amazing meals and desserts for family and friends. She cherished the simple things in life: sitting on the beach, reading a good book, listening to music. Rachel was a strong, independent thinker, and when she set a goal, she attained it. She could do it all: she excelled at costume design for Staples Players, served as secretary for the National Honor Society, treasurer for the China Care Club and was a member of Kool 2B Kind. Above all, Rachel was thoughtful and compassionate and her bright smile and signature giggle lit up the room. Rachel had a passion for fashion and was able to pursue and discover many talents and interests during her time at Staples. She attended Cornell University where she was accepted into the Fiber Science and Apparel Design Program (FSAD) and pursued a major in fashion design management with a minor in business.

Chuck was the youngest of ten children. He loved the theater, broadcasting – any public forum. When he died of cancer in 1984 at 19, his family felt the greatest tribute was to create a scholarship in his memory that would benefit students at the school that he and his siblings attended.

Geri Connell Epstein and the late David Epstein co-founded The David and Geri Epstein Private Foundation. This foundation provides grants for medical research and educational opportunity. Geri was born and raised in Queens, earning her BA and MA at Hunter College before working for the New York City Commission for the United Nations. David grew up in Bridgeport and was a graduate of Bucknell University. He began his professional career in advertising, and later established a successful commercial real estate investment and development company. The Epsteins lived in Westport for more than 25 years and have been committed supporters of the Westport community, providing college scholarships to Staples High School graduates as well as support for the construction of the new Levitt Pavilion. An avid golfer, David also served as a trustee of The First Tee Foundation whose programs seek to positively impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values and promote healthy choices through the game of golf.

Milton Fisher, who made his home in Westport from 1960 until his death in 2001, was an attorney and an investment banker. He was known for his sense of humor, his insights into people and their problems, and his zest for making the world better in ways both big and small. He taught Applied Creativity, a unique course for adults, in Staples’ Continuing Education program. For over 25 years the popular class focused on helping people be more creative in all aspects of their lives. Students developed creative problem-solving skills and innovative approaches to challenges that they faced individually, or in their community. He was the author of a number of books, including Intuition: How to Use it in your Life.

The Fonteynes consider themselves fortunate to have received a great high school and undergraduate education in their home country of Belgium. With a combination of grant support, family support and work study, they were left debt-free after graduate school in the U.S. They regard the combination of a strong education and their lack of significant debt as key drivers of their good fortune in the U.S. and in Westport. This STG award is a manifestation of their desire to help others obtain the opportunity for a similar start in life.

Richard Franzis has been an assistant principal at Staples High School since 2003. He began his career at Staples in 1998 as the Dean of Students, having served as assistant principal at Brookfield (CT) High School, and having taught chemistry and biology at Darien High School for over 12 years. In addition to his career in education, Rich retired as a colonel from the United States Army Reserve in 2014 after thirty-four years of service. He is a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, having served as a military intelligence officer in Iraq from July 2007 through June of 2008, and is a recipient of the Bronze Star Medal for meritorious service during combat operations. He is a graduate of the Army Command and General Staff College, and in 2016 was inducted into the Connecticut Army National Guard Officer Hall of Fame. Rich is an upstanding member of the Staples community who exhibits an extraordinary blend of strength, compassion and judgement.

Sharon grew up in Weston, Staples Class of 1964, and Bud grew up on Anchor Lane in Westport, the Class of 1959. Smitten with each other from the start, Sharon and Bud Frey raised four children in Westport, all Staples grads as well. Sharon was a beloved teacher at the Nature Center and at Green’s Farms Preschool. She nurtured, encouraged and taught countless Westport toddlers including her own children and oldest grandchildren. Her patience, kind-hearted manner and genuinely warm smile will always be remembered. In December of 2002, Sharon died after a long battle against cancer. Without his beloved wife, Bud continued to play the role of favorite babysitter to all ten of his grandchildren and to his grandnieces and grandnephew. His loyalty and devotion to his own family, siblings, nieces, countless friends and the game of golf will always be remembered. Bud died in August 2015 after a long battle with leukemia.

Jim Gillespie was a well-respected psychotherapist in Westport. The Gillespie Center, which serves homeless men, is named in his honor for his contributions to town life. He died at a young age after being struck by a car while vacationing in France.

Eric Goldschmidt, a 2007 graduate of Staples, was studying at the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore when he lost his battle with cancer in early 2011. He was a highly acclaimed photographer who frequently contributed to WestportNow. He was also keenly involved with Toquet Hall and the local music scene. Eric is remembered as a creative, humorous, dedicated friend to all, and a young man who fought his illness with grace.

Michael Goodgame graduated in 2011 and served as Student Assembly president his senior year. He was a motivating force behind many events that benefited the entire Staples community. He was also known as a talented swimmer and writer, a leader, and a good friend to all. He died in an automobile accident in 2014, while a student and Ultimate Frisbee player at Carleton College.

Jodi and Patrick Harris are the product of the public education system in New York and California. They are grateful for the opportunities the Westport Public Schools have afforded their daughters and are passionate about giving back, serving the Westport community, and helping students realize their full potential.

Preston Hirten was a key member of the Staples soccer team that was a finalist in the 2006 state championship. A fierce competitor on the field, and a gentle spirit and friend to all, he spent part of 2009 working on soccer and educational projects with young players in Ghana. Preston was entering his junior year at the University of Mary Washington when he died suddenly of a rare heart condition in August 2009. The #15 STG Award was established by family and friends to honor the number on Preston’s SHS jersey which he wore so proudly.

Bill Horne was an avid chemistry student who is also remembered for his warm sense of humor. He was a member of the Staples Class of 1971, but he died before completing high school.

Robert Haydon Jones was a longstanding member of the STG board, and a tireless and enthusiastic supporter of the program. He saw his parents wiped out financially by the Great Depression during his college years. The recipient of a scholarship from the Harvard Club in New York City allowed him to complete his Harvard degree in 1930 at age 19. Robert went on to great success in the advertising business, but never forgot that he had been helped by others. Throughout his life, he always tried to give back.

In 1982, the summer before their senior year at Staples, newly appointed cheerleading captains and best friends Ann and Katy died in a car accident. The entire Westport community was affected by their deaths. Ann’s mother, Betty Ann Kiester, attended STG ceremonies each year after this award was established. She often commented that the award recipients, typical teenagers, happily reminded her so much of Ann and Katy.

Michael Kowall was just 13 when he died as a result of an injury sustained during a soccer match. His teammates and the Westport Soccer Association established this fund to honor him.

The Krosse Family honors the outstanding education Nick (SHS ’08) and Jake (SHS ’11) received in the Westport school system. The family notes that “Staples instills in its students the desire to continue learning, and to be the best that one can be”. In her four years on the STG Committee (three were on the Student Committee), former Co-Chair Lisa Krosse met some amazing students who persevere despite the odds. She also came to appreciate a very generous community that values education not only for its own children, but for others too.

A dedicated speech and language pathologist, Judy served the Westport school system for over 20 years. An unforgettable woman, she touched the lives of students, teachers, family members and friends.

Linde is a leading industrial gases and engineering company with sales of USD 28 billion, approximately 80,000 employees globally, and customers in more than 100 countries worldwide. The company is making our world more productive by providing products, technologies and services that help customers improve their economic and environmental performance in a connected world.  This award was established in 2013, as the company is aligned to STG’s mission of helping students achieve their dreams, and educating the next generation in improving our world.  The Linde Global Giving Award supports the educational goals of high school graduates pursuing higher education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Dan Long spent close to 15 years coaching men’s and women’s diving at Staples, sharing his passion for the sport and enthusiasm for working with young people. Prior to his time at Staples, Dan had a 30 year career in advertising in New York City, creating award-winning ad campaigns for clients such as Diet Coke, Domino’s Pizza and Starburst. A passionate artist, Dan showed his intricate pen and ink drawings of trees at galleries throughout Connecticut. Dan was an active member of Saugatuck Congregational Church and a board member at the Artists Collective of Westport.

Beth and Joe Massoud moved to Westport in 1995. Their three children are products of Westport’s fine public school system, and Staples High School has been an important part of their lives. This award is designed to support the academic ambitions of Staples High School graduates.

Chou Chou Merrill grew up with her mother Alixe, her father Jason, and her brother Warren on Crooked Mile Road in Westport. She attended Coleytown Elementary School and graduated from Staples High School in 1970. Chou loved everything about Westport, particularly Compo Beach, Longshore, and Main Street. Even after she moved to Brookline, Massachusetts with her husband, Michael, where they happily raised their two sons, Matthew and Cameron and lived a wonderful life as a real estate broker, she never really left Westport or her many friends there. Chou shared her life and causes with Westport friends and family through frequent visits to her hometown as well as with a large online Westport community. Her many online posts made her a Westport legend. Chou was the glue that brought Staples High School graduates together. She spoke her mind and her friends loved her for it. Chou’s life was full. She was passionate and vibrant. She laughed often and loved with intensity. She was kind, compassionate, and generous. Chou touched many lives where she lived in Brookline, Westport, and Captiva, Florida. She would be so pleased and proud to help Staples High School graduates move on to higher education with this scholarship.

Ali Mirza, a lifelong resident of Westport, graduated from Staples High School in 2011. Ali was on the varsity boys volleyball team and was a student manager of the girls team. At Claremont McKenna College in California, Ali selected psychology and media as his majors and he continued to play volleyball on Claremont’s club team. His team spirit, warmth and zest for life were contagious. He was also passionate about fitness and music. Ali’s constant smile lit up every gathering. He was well known for his giving and selfless ways. Ali had just completed his sophomore year when he died.

Kim and Lee Cooper along with their six children moved to Westport in 2006. All six kids had the privilege of graduating from Staples High School and were very well prepared for college. They loved their six, uniquely different experiences at Staples, and the family agreed that establishing a STG award would be a wonderful way to say thank you to the many teachers and staff that have impacted their family so positively.

Lillian Odell was a long-time educator in Westport and the first principal of Coleytown Elementary School when it opened in 1953.

Patricia (Patsy) Weber Baxter Pelton grew up in Westport, CT and was a 1950 graduate of Staples High School. She raised her family in Westport and lived here until 1995. Patsy loved the arts, and lived a life filled with optimism and creativity. She attended Rhode Island School of Design and graduated from Parsons School of Design. She had a successful career as a fashion designer and then went on to pursue her artistic talents in painting and jewelry design, creating until the final days of her long life. Patsy loved nothing more than to talk with young people and hear about how they were pursuing their dreams.

Anne Pollak gave her first cello solo recital at age 11 and went on to graduate from Juilliard and to perform with The New York Philharmonic. Arthur Pollak was an Austrian immigrant who received his Ph.D. in chemical engineering from Columbia. He held over 20 patents. Anne and Arthur moved to Westport in the early 1950s and lived here for the remainder of their lives. They both loved music, especially opera. Anne also played a harpsichord which Arthur handcrafted for her. They never had children of their own but were very close to their niece and nephew.

Frank Reagan began his career in journalism before starting a public relations firm in Stamford. Eventually he returned to his first love, news writing. He and his wife Rita were 40-year residents of Westport, and they raised three daughters here. All were Staples and college graduates. Their youngest was a recipient of Staples Tuition Grants.

Grace King Salmon was a founding member of the Westport Woman’s Club. At her in death in 1939, a trust was left in her name to benefit the town of Westport. Her many legacies include a park built on reclaimed land across the river from her house on Riverside Avenue, and an award established with Staples Tuition Grants.

A noted Saugatuck couple, John (Chip) and Evelyn were ardent supporters of Festival Italiano from its early days. Years ago, when an earthquake devastated Italy, Chip helped bring young survivors to Disney World. He owned an accounting firm which his son Dominic now runs. Evelyn loved Compo Beach and doted on her three sons and her grandchildren. Her magnetic personality, sense of humor and carefree lifestyle drew in many people.

A native of Westport, Lou’s day job was as a barber for 43 years on Riverside Avenue. The unofficial “Mayor of Saugatuck”, Lou worked tirelessly on local projects. He revived Festival Italiano and chaired many events for his church and the Sons of Italy. He mentored many people and befriended all.

Established in 2018 to honor Staples Tuition Grant’s 75th anniversary, the Saugatuck Elementary School Community Award is a partnership between Saugatuck (SES)’s Student Caring Council and the families of SES. Funds for this year’s award were raised during the month of February in a spirited change war among three teams of “buddy” grades. The healthy competition brought out the best of our school community as money was raised for such a worthy cause!

The Lee Frey Saveliff Award was established by the 2018 Staples Tuition Grants Committee to honor Lee for her dedication and above and beyond commitment to serving STG’s mission. Lee, a 1979 graduate of Staples, has spent most of her life giving back to Westport, her hometown community that she loves. Through her leadership and collaborative efforts on committees and boards, she has helped community organizations through their growth and transformation to become more efficient, more effective and in all cases, more fun! During Lee’s five years on the STG Committee as a board member, Donor Co-Chair and Co- President, Lee has redefined donor procedures, taken on the challenges of installing a new database and helped ensure that STG’s 75th Anniversary received the recognition that it deserved.

David Schmerzler graduated from Staples High School in 1983 and attended Syracuse University, graduating in 1987.  He was a lifelong resident of both Westport and Fairfield who tragically passed away far too soon in 2019.  David was a man of diverse talents: an athlete, hunter, chef, skier, squash player and golfer.  His friendships were extensive and expansive, and he enjoyed the company of an incredibly large circle of friends with relationships that spanned decades.  His sense of humor was contagious and well-known; his zest for life unquenchable.  David was a larger-than-life character who charmed everyone he met.  His stories made tears run down your cheeks, and his laughter and love were infectious.  He was brash, zany, tough and brave, but most of all he was overflowing with love and humanity.

Doug Sheffer, Staples Class of 1968, was active in Staples Players (Technical Staff) as well as the band and was a member of the wrestling team when it won the state championship. He was also a sailing instructor at Longshore Sailing School and a ski instructor for many years. He died in January 2014 while piloting his helicopter in Colorado. This award was renamed in his memory by his sister Ann Sheffer, Staples Class of 1966, and is funded by the Betty R. and Ralph Sheffer Foundation.

As Staples graduates, these donors can help fellow Staples graduates meet their own dreams by allowing them to close the gap on their tuition bills.

This class endured three years of construction and mud during the first modernization of Staples. They’re hardy and tight, gathering for reunions in between the official five-year dates. After their 30th reunion, the Class of 1981 donated funds to STG in honor of their enduring friendships. In addition, class leaders Andre Lambros and Aleda Warren inspired the class to keep giving so the SHS Class of 1981 award can be given annually.

A general Staples Tuition Grant is made up of many donations from those donors who do not designate or direct their donation to a Named Award. A student may also receive a Named Award in conjunction with a Staples Tuition Grant award.

Ruth Steinkraus-Cohen was a strong supporter of the goals of the United Nations since its founding in 1945. Her passions were peace and justice, and she assisted Eleanor Roosevelt in her work on behalf of the UN. Thousands of UN and other international visitors enjoyed her home hospitality in Westport, CT. With boundless energy, Ruth led the United National Association of Southwestern Connecticut for many years and oversaw the growth of the local chapter. She was also a leader of the Westminster branch of the United Nations Association in London. A continuing legacy of Ruth’s is the annual jUNe Day celebration in Westport founded by her in 1965. Hundreds of UN staff and delegates, including ambassadors, are welcomed on the last Saturday in June by the local community to enjoy breakfast, lunch, golf, tennis, soccer, the town’s beach on Long Island Sound and many other activities. These are just a few of her many accomplishments. Ruth Steinkraus-Cohen embodied tolerance, enthusiasm and knowledge. She said, “We must speak out against ignorance, isolation and distrust and guard against them in ourselves.”

Alan Strick graduated from Staples in 1981. He was a well-rounded student, involved with Orphenians, band and sports. Alan had a great gift of bringing people together. He was always upbeat, even while battling mucosal melanoma. His joyful spirit continues to live through his four children.

Kenneth Sweetnam, Class of 1982, was a standout basketball and baseball player. Ken died in an automobile accident while in college. His family remembers his greatest talent was being in the middle of a diverse group of people and making them all feel special and welcome.

Born in New York City, Gordon was raised in Westport and graduated from Staples High School in 1985. He spent several years in California, receiving his degree from UCLA. He returned East to New Haven before making Fairfield his home. The owner of Electrix, Inc., of New Haven, Gordon was a talented architectural lighting designer with various patents to his credit. Intricately involved in the custom lighting of numerous landmark buildings throughout the world, he was proud of his company’s accomplishments. Gordon possessed a real passion for life. A warm engaging individual, he truly cared to meet and understand people. He was a skilled boatsman who knew the waters of Long Island Sound well. As part of the Staples Golf team, Gordon was an all FCIAC golfer and he helped the team win 2 FCIAC titles. Gordon was a fantastic husband and father who enjoyed spending time outdoors with those he loved.

Tauck, a family owned company, has been in the business of providing luxury escorted tours around the world since 1925. The company’s unrelenting pursuit of excellence and commitment to making a positive impact in the community is not unlike that of the Staples students the company has witnessed through the Senior Internship Program. To honor the company’s relationship with Staples High School, Tauck is pleased to provide this award to a student who has exhibited an unrelenting commitment to excellence and a dedication to giving back in a meaningful and impactful way.

Temple Lodge #65 was chartered in 1824 and has been serving the community of Westport, CT ever since. In fact, many Brothers of the Lodge were founding fathers of Westport when the town was incorporated in 1835. Being essentially a philanthropic organization, Masonry is the biggest contributor to charities in the world. In keeping with the spirit of Masonry, the Westport Masons are proud to establish this scholarship award to provide financial assistance to Staples graduates to pursue higher education.

Cody Thomas was a beloved English teacher at Staples High School and co-advisor of Inklings, the SHS award-winning student newspaper which received Gold Medal and Silver Crown recognition from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association. Cody graduated from NYU’s Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute and held a master’s degree from UConn. After graduation, he was a freelance writer for the Stamford Advocate and was editor of the rock journal, Revolver. His love of music led him to study music at NYU and play in many local bands. Cody was also an Instructor for the Connecticut Writing Project at Fairfield University. As a teacher at Staples, he had a strong connection with students and was known to help make kids better people as well as better students. He was an encouraging, accepting, caring teacher who inspired his students to work to their potential and be proud of their accomplishments. He was loved by friends, family, and students alike.

Started by eight women and two men in 1924, the Garden Club’s roots run deep in Westport history. Today, club members continue to preserve the town’s natural beauty. The club finances this STG award with the proceeds from its annual plant sale.

In 1943, The Staples High School PTA generously funded a $100 scholarship for a graduating SHS senior with demonstrated financial need. Staples Tuition Grants was formally established. The tradition continues, and each year all of Westport’s eight schools’ PTAs, alongside Staples High School families, and our town’s elementary and middle school families, give to this to award to support our Westport young adults.

Westport Republicans is a group of men and women who see themselves as Westporters first and Republicans second. Proud of Westport, they seek to preserve its historic, educational, and artistic legacies. With their award, Westport Republicans support a student who demonstrates leadership and fortitude in the face of adversity, and whose openness, creativity and willingness to participate in spirited debate and compromise allows democracy to flourish.

Since 1923, the Westport Rotary Club’s membership has included a wide variety of Westport residents and business people. Members raise funds to support a broad array of organizations, including Staples Tuition Grants.

This award is named for the Westport Sunrise Rotary but honors the spirit and commitment of former president Dick Eldh and his wife Cheryl. Dick was a founding member of Sunrise Rotary. His goal-oriented approach and can-do spirit brought countless projects to fruition for the organization. After his death, Cheryl joined WSR and was the epitome of Rotary’s “service above self”. They are remembered by their fellow Rotarians as “absolute gems”.

The WYWL is a non-profit philanthropic organization of women committed to promoting a sense of community through volunteerism, social activities and fundraising.

The Westport-Weston Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization that supports the development of business and the local community. Since 1931, the Chamber has fostered an entrepreneurial culture. The Chamber believes strongly that an investment in Staples students is an investment in the future of Westport.

The Fable family of Westport set up a charitable trust which in part was established to assist students needing financial help while pursuing higher education. The Westport-Weston Foundation now manages the fund.

Joan and Ben Wilder raised four boys in Westport and lived here for many years. Ben appreciated and supported the importance of sports and the arts in the development of his children’s education, and continued that support through his community, government and grandchildren. He died at the age of 85 from complications of cancer. Joan was a “soccer mom” before the term was coined. She was active in a variety of causes in Westport. She died at a young age, also from cancer. Both Joan and Ben were avid supporters of the Westport Soccer Association and Staples Players.

The Board of STG established this award to show their appreciation to Dan Woog for his assistance in creating and writing the first issue of the Named Award Profile booklet. Dan continues to show his support of STG by hosting our annual Awards Night and for writing and posting articles about STG to his blog 06880 Where Westport meets the world. These articles highlight STG’s mission, goals and events, which brings public awareness and publicity to our organization.

Anne and Edward Yass became acquainted with Westport while visiting their son and his family. A World War II veteran and a career pharmacist in New York, Edward is described by family as a wonderful, considerate, kind, sincere man who was adored by his children and grandchildren. Mainly a homemaker, Anne was engaging and gregarious, and relished her time with her children and grandchildren. Anne and Edward, both first-generation Americans, raised their three children to value their education and engage in the issues of the day.