Annual SSB Awards Celebration
Girls Inc.’s Annual Strong, Smart, and Bold Awards Celebration honors individuals in our community who exemplify the values at the heart of our mission—helping girls grow into strong, smart, and bold leaders.
These honorees serve as outstanding role models, demonstrating leadership through service and making a lasting impact on the lives of girls across Connecticut. Their actions help create an environment where every girl can grow, lead, and thrive.
When we support girls, they build the confidence, resilience, and skills needed to shape their futures. Together, we can help ensure every girl has the opportunity to succeed and lead with strength, intelligence, and boldness.
2025 Honorees
Trishna Mudumbi – Strong, Smart, and Bold Woman of the Year
Melissa Stoll Funaro – Strong Award
Princess Hyatt – Smart Award
Jan Edwards – Bold Award
Strong, Smart, and Bold Woman of the Year Past Honorees
2024 Rep. Hilda Santiago – 2023 Rhudean Raye – 2022 Doreen Roddy – 2019 Liliana Nigro-McAuliffe – 2018 Yvonne DeAngeli-Fontanez – 2017 Marlene McGann – 2016 Eileen Bongiovanni – 2015 Maria Campos-Harlow – 2014 Dana Hunter-Moyer, Donna Hunter – 2013 Dr. Manon Cox – 2012 Christelle Aubé – 2011 Molly Savard – 2010 Rosanne Ford – 2009 Catherine Abercrombie – 2008 Elaine Murphy – 2007 Lynn Faria – 2006 Mary Noonan-Cortright – 2005 Staci M. Roy – 2004 A. Lee Campione – 2003 Lucille Janatka – 2002 Marcia Trotta – 2001 Cynthia Johnson – 2000 Maureen Bilger, Inaugural Recipient
Strong Award Past Honorees
2024 – Yvette Highsmith-Francis
Smart Award Past Honorees
2024 – Donna Hylton
Bold Award Past Honorees
2024 – Nickimmy Hayes