Non-profit recognizes award recipients at 23^rd Annual Strong, Smart, and Bold Awards Celebration

MERIDEN, CT, MAY 14, 2024—On Wednesday, May 8^th, Girls Inc. of Meriden and Central Connecticut held its 23^rd Annual Strong, Smart, and Bold Awards Celebration. Reflecting their extending reach to other Connecticut communities while remaining rooted in Meriden, the Celebration was held at Central Connecticut State University’s Alumni Hall. The following honorees, selected for their contributions to improving the lives of girls and women in Connecticut communities and emulating the Girls Inc. mission, were recognized over the course of the evening:

• Hilda Santiago, Connecticut State Representative – Strong, Smart, and Bold Woman of the Year
• Yvette Highsmith Francis, Regional Vice President of Community Health Center Inc. – Strong Award
• Donna Hylton, Board of Directors Chairman, President, and CEO of STEAM Train Inc. – Smart Award
• Nickimmy Hayes, AFT Connecticut Organizer, Meriden Board of Education Member – Bold Award
• Marielle Metivier, Girls Inc. Member – 9^th Grade – Strong, Smart, and Bold Girl of the Year

Connecticut State Representative, Hilda Santiago, remarked during her acceptance speech, “Let us remember that our journey towards gender equity is far from over. While progress has been made, there is still work to be done to ensure that every girl, regardless of her background or circumstances can fulfill her full potential.” She then addressed the young girls in attendance, saying, “Be bold in your aspirations, be strong in your convictions, and always strive to be the best version of yourself…Tonight, let us continue to inspire and uplift the next generation of women leaders, ensuring a brighter, more inclusive future for all.”

In addition to the award presentations, guests had the opportunity to participate in a Silent Auction, mystery prize purchases, a STEM challenge, and bring home a bag of treats from the popular Candy Bar. The STEM challenge, which involved building a structure from marshmallows and toothpicks, offered a STEM Experience Package prize for the tallest and most sound structure. This challenge aligned with the affiliate’s 2025 plan to introduce “Eureka!”, a five-year program with a STEM-based approach, engaging and empowering 8th-12th grade girls to see themselves as an important part of the workforce of the future.

*Photos courtesy of Shane Engstrom*

About Girls Inc. of Meriden and Central CT

In partnership with schools, community-based organizations, and at Girls Inc. centers, Girls Inc. focuses on the development of the whole girl. Girls learn to value themselves, take risks, and discover and develop their inherent strengths. The combination of long-lasting mentoring relationships, a pro-girl environment, and evidence-based programming equips girls to navigate gender, economic, and social barriers, and grow up healthy, educated, and independent. Each day, Girls Inc. inspires ALL girls to be strong, smart, and bold.

###