2021 Rodman Award Recipients
Billy Elliot Award - for creating youth opportunity
Doug Suess
When some communities threw their hands up and cancelled their season, Doug Suess redeveloped the fall season into Flag Football so the kids could participate. It was not easy running kids programs with COVID going on but he not only had a great season, while following all protocols, but then launched a spring season for kids to participate.
When some communities threw their hands up and cancelled their season, Doug Suess redeveloped the fall season into Flag Football so the kids could participate. It was not easy running kids programs with COVID going on but he not only had a great season, while following all protocols, but then launched a spring season for kids to participate.
Matilda Award - for a youth leader who energizes others by giving back, making a difference and using their voice for positive change
Makayla Hickey
Makayla Hickey led the King Philip Leo Club as President leading over 170 club members through a very difficult year, completing an astounding 26 community service projects spanning Norfolk, Wrentham and Plainville. These projects included contributing service hours and donations to local soup kitchens, backpack drives for students and homeless, green space clean-ups, veteran support, community holiday celebrations, and collaboration with organizations such as Rosie’s Place, Special Olympics and Ronald McDonald House.
Makayla Hickey led the King Philip Leo Club as President leading over 170 club members through a very difficult year, completing an astounding 26 community service projects spanning Norfolk, Wrentham and Plainville. These projects included contributing service hours and donations to local soup kitchens, backpack drives for students and homeless, green space clean-ups, veteran support, community holiday celebrations, and collaboration with organizations such as Rosie’s Place, Special Olympics and Ronald McDonald House.
You Can’t Stop the Beat Award - for a senior citizen leader or one who works closely with seniors
Marc Craig
Marc Craig has led a tireless effort through this pandemic to keep the Council On Aging active and has helped countless seniors to get vaccinated. During the shutdown, he held daily Zoom calls to facilitate bingo games for seniors, called seniors often to see if they needed anything or just wanted to talk, coordinated with local organizations to hold food giveaways, and sourced toiletries when they were difficult to find. He and his amazing staff were able to open the center while utilizing strict guidelines to keep everyone safe, social and cared for.
Marc Craig has led a tireless effort through this pandemic to keep the Council On Aging active and has helped countless seniors to get vaccinated. During the shutdown, he held daily Zoom calls to facilitate bingo games for seniors, called seniors often to see if they needed anything or just wanted to talk, coordinated with local organizations to hold food giveaways, and sourced toiletries when they were difficult to find. He and his amazing staff were able to open the center while utilizing strict guidelines to keep everyone safe, social and cared for.
Dreamed A Dream Award - for the one who created something big and bold for their community
King Philip Senior Spirit Team
The King Philip Senior Spirit 2021 Parent Group was formed last fall to support King Philip High School's Class of 2021 to help create Covid-friendly senior year memories. This effort included multiple deliveries of care packages to each of the 300+ senior's houses. The group created a day of activities called "Warrior Mayhem '21", assembling over 100 volunteers to assist with the effort of running the event, which celebrated seniors with games, prizes and time to be together safely. The group also positively impacted the community by involving students in creating Birthday Bags stocked with party and cake-making supplies, which were donated to local food pantries, to help others also celebrate milestones in their lives.
The King Philip Senior Spirit 2021 Parent Group was formed last fall to support King Philip High School's Class of 2021 to help create Covid-friendly senior year memories. This effort included multiple deliveries of care packages to each of the 300+ senior's houses. The group created a day of activities called "Warrior Mayhem '21", assembling over 100 volunteers to assist with the effort of running the event, which celebrated seniors with games, prizes and time to be together safely. The group also positively impacted the community by involving students in creating Birthday Bags stocked with party and cake-making supplies, which were donated to local food pantries, to help others also celebrate milestones in their lives.
Footloose Award - for a community leader who has made a heroic impact on local life
Anne Marie Anderson
Anne Marie Anderson has been on the frontline of this pandemic, working as a nurse. She has also participated in so many fundraisers and community service projects throughout the year, despite her exhausting work in the medical field. Her tireless and gifted work inspired a sense of hope for all those she came into contact with.
Anne Marie Anderson has been on the frontline of this pandemic, working as a nurse. She has also participated in so many fundraisers and community service projects throughout the year, despite her exhausting work in the medical field. Her tireless and gifted work inspired a sense of hope for all those she came into contact with.
The Producers Award - for an innovative civic leader
Tina Belanger
It was not easy to be on the school committee, especially this past year, but Tina Belanger led by listening, evaluating and carefully proceeded with calm decision-making, just as she has for the other nine years of her service of supporting Foxborough Public Schools. She has been an amazing leader in every way, supporting students, families and the community as a whole.
Mike Webber at Foxboro Cable Access
Led by Mike Webber, Foxboro Cable Access made important civic information accessible to all. FCA made it possible for families to enjoy athletic games in their homes when spectators weren't allowed. From music performances, to awards ceremonies, to worship services, to over 125 civic meetings, FCA was there to cover it all and keep us informed and connected due to Mike’s technological skills.
It was not easy to be on the school committee, especially this past year, but Tina Belanger led by listening, evaluating and carefully proceeded with calm decision-making, just as she has for the other nine years of her service of supporting Foxborough Public Schools. She has been an amazing leader in every way, supporting students, families and the community as a whole.
Mike Webber at Foxboro Cable Access
Led by Mike Webber, Foxboro Cable Access made important civic information accessible to all. FCA made it possible for families to enjoy athletic games in their homes when spectators weren't allowed. From music performances, to awards ceremonies, to worship services, to over 125 civic meetings, FCA was there to cover it all and keep us informed and connected due to Mike’s technological skills.
School of Rock Award - for an outstanding Arts/Drama or Music Teacher 2020/2021
Aaron Bush
Aaron Bush is beloved by his students and is completely devoted to their development as young adults and their overall well being. It’s the highest level of music education that he brings to the students at Foxboro High School, but it really isn’t just about music. It is about the leadership, respect and caring for each other that he has fostered within the music department. He is among the finest in his vocation.
Cami Tedoldi
Cami Tedoldi is the Music Director for the Foxborough Schools. She has been tireless in her efforts to provide continuous music education at all the Schools during the awkward Covid-19 restrictions that have affected student instruction. The music has NEVER STOPPED during this long and difficult period. Our entire Town and all our students therein have been the beneficiary of Cami’s creativity and effectiveness in managing the Music Department during this teaching endurance test.
Aaron Bush is beloved by his students and is completely devoted to their development as young adults and their overall well being. It’s the highest level of music education that he brings to the students at Foxboro High School, but it really isn’t just about music. It is about the leadership, respect and caring for each other that he has fostered within the music department. He is among the finest in his vocation.
Cami Tedoldi
Cami Tedoldi is the Music Director for the Foxborough Schools. She has been tireless in her efforts to provide continuous music education at all the Schools during the awkward Covid-19 restrictions that have affected student instruction. The music has NEVER STOPPED during this long and difficult period. Our entire Town and all our students therein have been the beneficiary of Cami’s creativity and effectiveness in managing the Music Department during this teaching endurance test.
Hamilton Award - for someone who builds bridges from history to the present
Jack Authelet
Jack Authelet is a life-long resident and the official town historian of Foxborough, and Commissioner Emeritus of the historical society. He is an amazing example of bridging generations as an invaluable collector and distributor of knowledge about our shared local history. An accomplished published author, he has documented the history of the town in detail and continues to make public appearances supporting the passage of history from one person to another.
Emelie Bonin
Emelie Bonin researches historic houses as part of her work with the Historic Commission for their house plaque program, helping to preserve the unique history of each home in the present tense. To date, she has researched and created over 225 plaques giving homeowners a new lens through which to view the history of their homes.
Jack Authelet is a life-long resident and the official town historian of Foxborough, and Commissioner Emeritus of the historical society. He is an amazing example of bridging generations as an invaluable collector and distributor of knowledge about our shared local history. An accomplished published author, he has documented the history of the town in detail and continues to make public appearances supporting the passage of history from one person to another.
Emelie Bonin
Emelie Bonin researches historic houses as part of her work with the Historic Commission for their house plaque program, helping to preserve the unique history of each home in the present tense. To date, she has researched and created over 225 plaques giving homeowners a new lens through which to view the history of their homes.
The Sequel Award - for the one who never stops giving back, to their industry, their school, their community & their friends
Kristen Walsh
Kristen Walsh is a first grade teacher at the Igo School. She faced this school year with such a positive attitude and with her trademark hilarious disposition. She went above and beyond to make students learning from home feel included by planning special projects that brokered relationships with children who otherwise might have felt isolated, sometimes using her lunch break or out of school time to do so. Kristen regularly goes above and beyond for her students, but this year, she really proved that.
Nicole Vachon Hanlon
In addition to her work with youth, Nicole Vachon Hanlon also works with elderly and disabled residents by accompanying them on walks, doing art projects and generally keeping them smiling. Nicole also has led art therapy workshops with our local veterans. Most of what she does, she does for free or is paid just a little, and the money she does earn goes toward supplies for the next project.
Kristen Walsh is a first grade teacher at the Igo School. She faced this school year with such a positive attitude and with her trademark hilarious disposition. She went above and beyond to make students learning from home feel included by planning special projects that brokered relationships with children who otherwise might have felt isolated, sometimes using her lunch break or out of school time to do so. Kristen regularly goes above and beyond for her students, but this year, she really proved that.
Nicole Vachon Hanlon
In addition to her work with youth, Nicole Vachon Hanlon also works with elderly and disabled residents by accompanying them on walks, doing art projects and generally keeping them smiling. Nicole also has led art therapy workshops with our local veterans. Most of what she does, she does for free or is paid just a little, and the money she does earn goes toward supplies for the next project.
Best Supporting Role Award - for a person who is always there to lend a helping hand, go the extra mile, makes a difference and expects nothing in return
A.J. Dooley
What A.J. Dooley does for the community is continuous - When he and Jack started Clean Up Foxboro Day became an annual event that continues to bring the community together! Covid-19 might have delayed this year’s event, but it hasn’t stopped it. Anyone that knows A.J.--and that's pretty much everyone in Foxboro--knows that A.J.'s generosity and caring knows no bounds. You won't hear about it on the news, but if he can help, he does!
Reggie St. Germain
Reggie St. Germain is always among the first to offer a helping hand whenever people need it. This past year, he purchased and donated PPE for healthcare workers and helped to distribute his wife’s hand sewn masks. He’s the type of person who buys coffee for those behind him in the Dunkin Donuts line. He’s constantly doing what he can to make those around him have a better day.
What A.J. Dooley does for the community is continuous - When he and Jack started Clean Up Foxboro Day became an annual event that continues to bring the community together! Covid-19 might have delayed this year’s event, but it hasn’t stopped it. Anyone that knows A.J.--and that's pretty much everyone in Foxboro--knows that A.J.'s generosity and caring knows no bounds. You won't hear about it on the news, but if he can help, he does!
Reggie St. Germain
Reggie St. Germain is always among the first to offer a helping hand whenever people need it. This past year, he purchased and donated PPE for healthcare workers and helped to distribute his wife’s hand sewn masks. He’s the type of person who buys coffee for those behind him in the Dunkin Donuts line. He’s constantly doing what he can to make those around him have a better day.
You're Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile Award - for a Community Cheerleader, someone who works to make the community better with their energy, enthusiasm and spirit
Lindsay Deneault
Lindsay Deneault helps out consistently around town and always puts her heart and soul into everything she does as a business owner and a community leader. She has been working for many years to connect students to the arts, support youth education and to enhance the overall well-being of her community. She leads with a happy heart and a smile on her face.
Lindsay Deneault helps out consistently around town and always puts her heart and soul into everything she does as a business owner and a community leader. She has been working for many years to connect students to the arts, support youth education and to enhance the overall well-being of her community. She leads with a happy heart and a smile on her face.
2022 Rodman Awards Recipients
Billy Elliot Award - for creating youth opportunity
Ashli Phillips and Liz Francis from the Foxboro YMCA
The YMCA is constantly looking for ways to serve the youth of Foxboro and surrounding communities. Whether through sports leagues or summer camps, they do a great job of creating opportunities for students to grow into who they are. Their summer camp raises up students to be leaders, growing them through encouragement, giving them responsibilities, and opportunities to lead. Under Ashli Phillips' and Liz Francis' leadership, this organization continues to shine!
The YMCA is constantly looking for ways to serve the youth of Foxboro and surrounding communities. Whether through sports leagues or summer camps, they do a great job of creating opportunities for students to grow into who they are. Their summer camp raises up students to be leaders, growing them through encouragement, giving them responsibilities, and opportunities to lead. Under Ashli Phillips' and Liz Francis' leadership, this organization continues to shine!
Matilda Award - for a youth leader who energizes others by giving back, making a difference and using their voice for positive change
Bo Canfield
Bo Canfield has developed into a confident person, someone who is not afraid to be who he is. Bo has been involved in theater his whole life. Bo has helped in many productions, workshops and programs over the years. He motivates others to want to get on stage and boosts their confidence. He has been a leader in the Foxborough High School music program, has taught private lessons and offered his time to help mentor younger musicians. As an athlete, Bo has helped to recruit underclassmen to get involved in lesser populated sports like tennis and swim. As a spokesperson for the Gay Straight Alliance, Bo has worked with kids in the middle school to help them find their voices in our complicated world. Bo is an outstanding role model for many sectors of our youth population and he has made a positive difference for many.
Bo Canfield has developed into a confident person, someone who is not afraid to be who he is. Bo has been involved in theater his whole life. Bo has helped in many productions, workshops and programs over the years. He motivates others to want to get on stage and boosts their confidence. He has been a leader in the Foxborough High School music program, has taught private lessons and offered his time to help mentor younger musicians. As an athlete, Bo has helped to recruit underclassmen to get involved in lesser populated sports like tennis and swim. As a spokesperson for the Gay Straight Alliance, Bo has worked with kids in the middle school to help them find their voices in our complicated world. Bo is an outstanding role model for many sectors of our youth population and he has made a positive difference for many.
You Can’t Stop the Beat Award - for a senior citizen leader or one who works closely with seniors
Donna Martin of the Wrentham Senior Center
For over 20 years, Donna Martin has planned and accompanied bus loads of Senior Citizens on monthly day trips around New England. She is a dedicated volunteer! She provides social opportunities for local seniors to enjoy luncheons and performances that might not otherwise be accessible to our senior community members.
For over 20 years, Donna Martin has planned and accompanied bus loads of Senior Citizens on monthly day trips around New England. She is a dedicated volunteer! She provides social opportunities for local seniors to enjoy luncheons and performances that might not otherwise be accessible to our senior community members.
Dreamed A Dream Award - for the one who created something big and bold for their community
Kristin Papianou
Kristin Papianou started a Facebook page "Pandemic Potluck" and created a community of individuals who loved to cook and share recipes when the pandemic started. It was a place to share and connect. She then provided volunteer opportunities through the site and during the holidays hosted the first cookie swap which was well attended and brought individuals together who had been sharing throughout the pandemic.
Kristin Papianou started a Facebook page "Pandemic Potluck" and created a community of individuals who loved to cook and share recipes when the pandemic started. It was a place to share and connect. She then provided volunteer opportunities through the site and during the holidays hosted the first cookie swap which was well attended and brought individuals together who had been sharing throughout the pandemic.
Footloose Award - for a community leader who has made a heroic impact on local life
Carolyn Cahill and Sarah Caracciolo
Carolyn Cahill and Sarah Caracciolo are community leaders who provide a constant source of community outreach and advice on their Facebook page, Foxborough Working Mothers. This year, Sarah has launched an effort to reconstruct the skate park at the Booth Recreational area and has organized fundraisers and launched a Go Fund Me to support this effort. All of these events are to save and improve an area that kids love and many feel are so important to their childhood.
Carolyn Cahill and Sarah Caracciolo are community leaders who provide a constant source of community outreach and advice on their Facebook page, Foxborough Working Mothers. This year, Sarah has launched an effort to reconstruct the skate park at the Booth Recreational area and has organized fundraisers and launched a Go Fund Me to support this effort. All of these events are to save and improve an area that kids love and many feel are so important to their childhood.
The Producers Award - for an innovative civic leader
Paige Duncan
As Foxboro’s Town Planner, Paige Duncan has shown a deep commitment to the Foxboro Community. She skillfully and eloquently does her work with a deep appreciation for both Foxboro’s history and the future growth of the town. Paige is not one to say no to projects and works tirelessly to help make dreams grow into reality. She is currently in the process of gathering stakeholders to be a part of a conversation to make Foxboro a Cultural District, once again weaving the ideas and visions of stakeholders into plan and process. She always values feedback and input, is a forward thinker and works around the clock for the good of this town.
As Foxboro’s Town Planner, Paige Duncan has shown a deep commitment to the Foxboro Community. She skillfully and eloquently does her work with a deep appreciation for both Foxboro’s history and the future growth of the town. Paige is not one to say no to projects and works tirelessly to help make dreams grow into reality. She is currently in the process of gathering stakeholders to be a part of a conversation to make Foxboro a Cultural District, once again weaving the ideas and visions of stakeholders into plan and process. She always values feedback and input, is a forward thinker and works around the clock for the good of this town.
School of Rock Award - for an outstanding Arts/Drama or Music Teacher 2021/2022
Laura Canfield
Laura Canfield has worked tirelessly for over 20 years to create opportunities for young performers. Her theater company LRC Stage Productions has given hundreds of kids the chance to perform on stage and have their moment in the spotlight. From the Ahern Middle School in Foxboro, to the Marilyn Rodman Performing Arts Center and at Foxborough High School, Laura has consistently directed incredible shows for all youth performers of all ages. She teaches kids not only how to be an amazing performer, but an amazing person and truly changes lives. Her work in Grease and Spelling Bee this past year really helped to get the theater community up and running again after a hard year and brought joy to so many performers and their families.
Laura Canfield has worked tirelessly for over 20 years to create opportunities for young performers. Her theater company LRC Stage Productions has given hundreds of kids the chance to perform on stage and have their moment in the spotlight. From the Ahern Middle School in Foxboro, to the Marilyn Rodman Performing Arts Center and at Foxborough High School, Laura has consistently directed incredible shows for all youth performers of all ages. She teaches kids not only how to be an amazing performer, but an amazing person and truly changes lives. Her work in Grease and Spelling Bee this past year really helped to get the theater community up and running again after a hard year and brought joy to so many performers and their families.
Hamilton Award - for someone who builds bridges from history to the present
Deb Wendell
Deb Wendell never hesitates to jump in with dedication and energy when projects are needed or suggested by the Historical Commission. Most recently she has revamped and refreshed the archival displays at Memorial Hall including much improved signage. Deb also produced the design and graphics for the new Jack Authelet initiative to honor and display the accomplishments of the “Women of Foxborough”, an expanding exhibit at Memorial Hall. Her creativity, enthusiasm and incredible effort allowed this work to be completed in a matter of months instead of years as had been originally anticipated. Through her time at Cable Access, Deb saw to it that countless, donated 8mm films were digitized and made available for public viewing through archive.org. Due to Deb’s resourcefulness and skills, archive.org now also contains a listing of the Historical Commission’s archive database and news indexes from 1796 to 1955. She clearly has built tangible bridges from the town’s history to the present. She is our Golden Gate!
Deb Wendell never hesitates to jump in with dedication and energy when projects are needed or suggested by the Historical Commission. Most recently she has revamped and refreshed the archival displays at Memorial Hall including much improved signage. Deb also produced the design and graphics for the new Jack Authelet initiative to honor and display the accomplishments of the “Women of Foxborough”, an expanding exhibit at Memorial Hall. Her creativity, enthusiasm and incredible effort allowed this work to be completed in a matter of months instead of years as had been originally anticipated. Through her time at Cable Access, Deb saw to it that countless, donated 8mm films were digitized and made available for public viewing through archive.org. Due to Deb’s resourcefulness and skills, archive.org now also contains a listing of the Historical Commission’s archive database and news indexes from 1796 to 1955. She clearly has built tangible bridges from the town’s history to the present. She is our Golden Gate!
The Sequel Award - for the one who never stops giving back, to their industry, their school, their community & their friends
Lori Drayton
As one of the owners of a local law firm, Lori Drayton has assisted victims of violent crimes and domestic violence and juveniles while also donating a great deal of her time to pro bono work. Attorney Drayton also runs the Norfolk County Lawyer for the Day Program where she assists with free representation of Landlords and Tenants in housing court. Lori is the secretary of the Igo school Parent Teacher Organization and a classroom parent for her son’s grade 1 class. She is also the classroom mom for her daughter Ella’s class at the Sage School and representative for Sage on the Massachusetts Private Independent Network of Schools. In December, after a family in the first grade class lost everything in a fire, she stopped all operations of her law firm to organize a drive to obtain essentials for the family which resulted in hundreds of contributions. Lori spends so much of her time, both professionally and personally supporting her community!
Greg Spier
Greg Spier is a builder who gives back to his industry and the planet by using innovative building techniques that are environmentally friendly. Greg gives back to his local community by contributing to the Foxboro YMCA and the Spier Aquatic Center. Greg is also a benefactor of the SPLASH program which has resulted in teaching hundreds of local school children how to be safe around water, learn to swim, and begin enjoying swimming as lifelong recreation.
As one of the owners of a local law firm, Lori Drayton has assisted victims of violent crimes and domestic violence and juveniles while also donating a great deal of her time to pro bono work. Attorney Drayton also runs the Norfolk County Lawyer for the Day Program where she assists with free representation of Landlords and Tenants in housing court. Lori is the secretary of the Igo school Parent Teacher Organization and a classroom parent for her son’s grade 1 class. She is also the classroom mom for her daughter Ella’s class at the Sage School and representative for Sage on the Massachusetts Private Independent Network of Schools. In December, after a family in the first grade class lost everything in a fire, she stopped all operations of her law firm to organize a drive to obtain essentials for the family which resulted in hundreds of contributions. Lori spends so much of her time, both professionally and personally supporting her community!
Greg Spier
Greg Spier is a builder who gives back to his industry and the planet by using innovative building techniques that are environmentally friendly. Greg gives back to his local community by contributing to the Foxboro YMCA and the Spier Aquatic Center. Greg is also a benefactor of the SPLASH program which has resulted in teaching hundreds of local school children how to be safe around water, learn to swim, and begin enjoying swimming as lifelong recreation.
Best Supporting Role Award - for a person who is always there to lend a helping hand, go the extra mile, makes a difference and expects nothing in return
Lisa Rapoza
Lisa Rapoza is a Foxboro resident who has had her fair share of heartaches but is always planning or has something in the wings to help someone in town. Whether it's a benefit, party, raffle, or an all out gala–Lisa is the one planning it! A ride to the airport- Lisa will drive you. A meal for a meal train- she will cover more than her share. A new diagnosis that will set you and your family back- she already has a fundraiser planned! Lisa is the epitome of love for others but especially her community.
Lisa Rapoza is a Foxboro resident who has had her fair share of heartaches but is always planning or has something in the wings to help someone in town. Whether it's a benefit, party, raffle, or an all out gala–Lisa is the one planning it! A ride to the airport- Lisa will drive you. A meal for a meal train- she will cover more than her share. A new diagnosis that will set you and your family back- she already has a fundraiser planned! Lisa is the epitome of love for others but especially her community.
You're Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile Award - for a Community Cheerleader, someone who works to make the community better with their energy, enthusiasm and spirit.
Jaclyn McCann
Jackie McCann is a beam of energy, spirit, and positivity in our community. Jackie is a 6th grade teacher at the Ahern Middle School. If you need to find her classroom, just look for the current and former students lined up to say hi to her or check in with her. After school, you can find Jackie assisting with activities at the Ahern, such as Student Council. When she’s done with her duties at the Ahern, she is often hustling to play rehearsal for the next musical that she is assisting with. When she’s finished up with work and theatre, Jackie isn’t home relaxing on the couch. Instead, on nights and weekends, you can find her cheering on Foxboro youth at sports events where her students are so excited to see her. She has a way of making people feel special with just her presence.
Paige Gilmartin
Paige Gilmartin is a magnetic human being. She always has a smile and happy remark for anyone she sees. Since she was a child, Paige has worked to draw others into the creative and wonderful world of theatre. She has been in countless shows and has brought so many along with her. When Paige is around, you can't help but smile. When the high school was without a show this year, Paige worked hard to make sure that the show would happen. It was a huge success and Paige was a large reason why. She works tirelessly to ensure that theater arts will continue at the high school, even after she graduates.
Jackie McCann is a beam of energy, spirit, and positivity in our community. Jackie is a 6th grade teacher at the Ahern Middle School. If you need to find her classroom, just look for the current and former students lined up to say hi to her or check in with her. After school, you can find Jackie assisting with activities at the Ahern, such as Student Council. When she’s done with her duties at the Ahern, she is often hustling to play rehearsal for the next musical that she is assisting with. When she’s finished up with work and theatre, Jackie isn’t home relaxing on the couch. Instead, on nights and weekends, you can find her cheering on Foxboro youth at sports events where her students are so excited to see her. She has a way of making people feel special with just her presence.
Paige Gilmartin
Paige Gilmartin is a magnetic human being. She always has a smile and happy remark for anyone she sees. Since she was a child, Paige has worked to draw others into the creative and wonderful world of theatre. She has been in countless shows and has brought so many along with her. When Paige is around, you can't help but smile. When the high school was without a show this year, Paige worked hard to make sure that the show would happen. It was a huge success and Paige was a large reason why. She works tirelessly to ensure that theater arts will continue at the high school, even after she graduates.
Marilyn Rodman Legacy Award
The individual who receives this annual award is someone who embodies the characteristics of Marilyn Rodman: someone with a strong community spirit, a passion for the arts, has a strong focus on equity and access for all, is a creative problem solver and has a forward thinking vision.
2021: Rachel Calabrese
Rachel has been a member of the board of directors at the MRPAC for the past four years. She serves in this role as she believes whole heartedly in its mission to expose families - all families - to local theater. She also is the founder and Executive Director of Confikids nonprofit organization which serves families in four counties in southeastern MA in hopes to build children’s confidence through enrichment activities. She has lived in Foxboro for over 20 years with her husband, Greg, and her three children. She believes her ultimate achievement is being a mom to three thriving, confident and kind children; Sadie, age 17, Jamie, age 15 and Lucy age 12.
Rachel has been a member of the board of directors at the MRPAC for the past four years. She serves in this role as she believes whole heartedly in its mission to expose families - all families - to local theater. She also is the founder and Executive Director of Confikids nonprofit organization which serves families in four counties in southeastern MA in hopes to build children’s confidence through enrichment activities. She has lived in Foxboro for over 20 years with her husband, Greg, and her three children. She believes her ultimate achievement is being a mom to three thriving, confident and kind children; Sadie, age 17, Jamie, age 15 and Lucy age 12.
2022: Jeanne Bonneau
Jeanne Bonneau exemplifies the characteristics of Marilyn Rodman through her lifelong commitment to music and arts education. Jeanne has been a resident of Foxboro for 55 years and taught in the Plainville Public Schools as a music educator for 20 years. As a founding member of Foxboro Music Association, Jeanne showed her commitment to building a legacy of music advocates. Upon retirement, Jeanne began using her talents in the Foxboro Senior Center where she created a group called the Serenading Seniors. I saw first hand how Jeanne leads this group with energy, warmth and professionalism. Most would think that was enough. But not for Jeanne. Jeanne has a deep respect for generational learning - for connecting the young with the old through music. Jeanne’s Serenading Seniors travel to local elementary schools to perform and engage youth in other areas to work alongside the Serenading Seniors. She has engaged the Foxboro High School American Sign Language Class to sign alongside the group. Jeanne doesn’t stop. She doesn't stop spreading the one common thread we all as humans have in common - a love of music.
Jeanne Bonneau exemplifies the characteristics of Marilyn Rodman through her lifelong commitment to music and arts education. Jeanne has been a resident of Foxboro for 55 years and taught in the Plainville Public Schools as a music educator for 20 years. As a founding member of Foxboro Music Association, Jeanne showed her commitment to building a legacy of music advocates. Upon retirement, Jeanne began using her talents in the Foxboro Senior Center where she created a group called the Serenading Seniors. I saw first hand how Jeanne leads this group with energy, warmth and professionalism. Most would think that was enough. But not for Jeanne. Jeanne has a deep respect for generational learning - for connecting the young with the old through music. Jeanne’s Serenading Seniors travel to local elementary schools to perform and engage youth in other areas to work alongside the Serenading Seniors. She has engaged the Foxboro High School American Sign Language Class to sign alongside the group. Jeanne doesn’t stop. She doesn't stop spreading the one common thread we all as humans have in common - a love of music.
The Rodman Awards is supported in part by a grant from the
Foxborough, Attleboro, Mansfield and Sharon Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by the Mass Cultural Council.
Foxborough, Attleboro, Mansfield and Sharon Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by the Mass Cultural Council.
2021 recipient of the "Hamilton Award," Emelie Bonin, presents the award to 2022 recipient Deb Wendell
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Foxboro High School student, Addie, performs her social justice culminating dance piece representing the crisis in Ukraine
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The Marilyn Rodman Performing Arts Center is a home to so many arts and culture organizations who rely on our stage to present works with and for the communities they serve. Our patrons have a home where they can gather with a friend, socialize and enjoy performances together. Art is an integral part of community and without it, we aren't as strong, we aren't as creative and we aren't as unified.
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SPONSOR THE 2023 RODMAN AWARDS!Be a part of the reason community is so strong. Join us in elevating those who have made our community stronger with a sponsorship. Options start at $250.00 Contact Catherine Miller, Executive Director at catherinem@orpheum.org for sponsorship details. |
