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Heart of Women Award

Nominations are closed

The mission of the Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce’s Womens Business Council is to develop and enhance the personal and professional growth of women in the Greater Danbury community and to further inspire and celebrate women through a collective network of guidance, education, support, and leadership.

Each year, the Womens Business Council selects a local woman to receive the Heart of Women Award. The honoree is a woman who has made a difference, inspired others and forever positively impacted the lives of others in the community.

The nominee must demonstrate the spirit of creativity, innovation and initiative by responding in a proactive manner to an issue, concern or event that effect the lives of others. Have made a lasting difference in the lives of individuals of all abilities and backgrounds. Routinely goes above and beyond the call of duty. Actions reflect her passion and personal commitment of time, talent or treasure on behalf of others. Demonstrates leadership in coordinating volunteer efforts of individuals or groups for fundraising, special events, programs or services that benefit the community. Inspires others to get involved, take responsibility, or assume leadership in order to effect positive change.

The nominee must be a female who either resides, works or whose impact has been felt in the Greater Danbury region - Bethel, Bridgewater, Brookfield, Danbury, New Fairfield, New Milford, Newtown, Redding, Ridgefield and Sherman.

Founded in 2011, the following women have been honored:

2011 Jane Martellino, Yes! Grace Rocks

2012 Marie Hatcher, Matthew’s Hearts of Hope

2012 LouAnn Bloomer, TBICO

2013 Wilda Hayes, Ann’s Place

2013 Pat Llodra, Newtown First Selectman

2013 Janet Robinson, Newtown Superintendent of Schools

2014 Linda Anderson, The Scotty Fund

2015 Julia Horne, Principal, South Street Elementary School

2016 Dawn Blom, DPZ Dawn's Pizzazz

2017 Patricia Zachman, Women’s Center of Greater Danbury

2018 Kathy Purdy Hillside Food Outreach

2019 Donna Palomba, Jane Doe No More

2020 & 2021 Not awarded

2022 Dianne Yamin, Probate Judge

Nomination Submissions

Nominations for 2023 are now closed.

All nominations received will be reviewed by members of the WBC Heart of Women Selection Committee. The Award recipient will be announced August 9, 2023. The Heart of Women event will be held in November, 2023. For inquiries email info@danburychamber.com or call 203-743-5565 and ask for Helen Brickfield.

Nominee Information

Nominator Information