Through this event, Connecticut Voices for Children honors individuals whose work and commitment to the state’s young people serves as a model.
David Nee received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his more than 20 years of service as executive director of the Graustein Memorial Fund, a foundation dedicated to improving education for children across the state.
His collaborative work to bring together diverse stakeholders to improve the state’s early care and education system was specifically recognized.
Commissioner Joette Katz was acknowledged with the State Policy Leadership Award for her work piloting the state Department of Children and Families.
Her direction has allowed more children to remain with their families and reduced reliance on institutional and group care settings for at-risk young people.
Another recipient was state Rep. Jason Rojas, who represents East Hartford and Manchester and was given the Legislative Leadership Award for his advocacy of early literacy programs and improving educational quality.
United Way of Connecticut/2-1-1, a statewide organization based in Rocky Hill, received the Public Service Award for the HUSKY Infoline service, which has helped more than 1.6 million state residents over the last 15 years to sign up for and access the HUSKY health insurance program.
Connecticut Voices for Children is a research-based public education and advocacy organization that works statewide to promote the well-being of Connecticut's children, youth and families.
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