To The Editor:

Volunteerism is the act of giving one’s time and talent in service to the community. Many of you reading this have likely volunteered in some capacity, and our town is better for it. Newtown’s churches, nonprofit organizations, charitable groups, and Town boards and commissions rely on dedicated volunteers whose generosity makes their work possible.

To celebrate that spirit, the Mary Hawley Public Service Award was established in 2023 to honor an individual whose long-standing and exceptional service to Newtown reflects the selfless commitment of Mary Elizabeth Hawley, the town’s beloved benefactress.

The award has two purposes:

To honor Mary Hawley’s extraordinary legacy. Her generosity gave Newtown many of its most treasured institutions — C.H. Booth Library, Edmond Town Hall, Hawley School, Newtown Village Cemetery, and the Soldiers and Sailors Monument. Her impact is remarkable, and this award ensures her contributions are formally recognized each year.

To promote volunteerism. By recognizing individuals who have demonstrated sustained, outstanding service to the community, the award highlights the importance of civic engagement and inspires others to give back.

If you know someone who embodies these values and deserves consideration for this prestigious honor, please submit a nomination. Forms are available online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MaryHawleyAward or in hard copy at C.H. Booth Library, The Newtown Bee, Newtown Senior Center, and Newtown Community Center. The nomination period closes on May 1, 2026.

The recipient of the Mary Hawley Public Service Award will be recognized with their name added to a plaque at Edmond Town Hall and will receive a personalized memento commemorating their achievement. In addition, Newtown Savings Bank will donate $1,000 to a Newtown-based nonprofit organization chosen by the award recipient.

Bronson Hawley

Maureen Crick Owen

Co-Chairs, Mary Hawley

Public Service Award Committee