2018 Elizabeth M. Pfriem Civic Award

May 4, 2018

Named in honor of the late Elizabeth M. Pfriem, noted Bridgeport philanthropist, The Elizabeth M. Pfriem Civic Award recognizes community leaders who have made a long-term commitment to child advocacy and public education. This year’s recipient was The Bridgeport School Volunteer Association. Also, being honored at the award ceremony was the retiring University of Bridgeport President Neil Salonen who received special recognition for exceptional education leadership.

2017 Elizabeth M. Pfriem Civic Award

May 4, 2017

This year’s recipient of the Elizabeth M. Pfriem Civic Award, Dr. Bryan Ripley Crandall, is director of the Connecticut Writing Project at Fairfield University and assistant professor in the Graduate School of Education and Allied Professions at Fairfield University. Among his many accomplishments, Dr. Crandall offers a writing institute for Bridgeport teachers and students each summer. The Ubuntu Academy, a summer literacy camp for immigrant and refugee youth from Bridgeport, is an important partnership Dr. Crandall created with the Bridgeport Public Schools and The International Institute of Connecticut, a local nonprofit organization.

2016 Elizabeth M. Pfriem Civic Award

May 4, 2016

Neil Salonen, President of the University of Bridgeport, will receive the 2016 Elizabeth M. Pfriem Civic Award, which is presented to an outstanding civic leader who is making a profound difference in education.