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The Inaugural Denise D’Ascenzo Foundation Human Spirit Awards Dinner

By Dennis House on 11/11/2024 • ( 1 Comment )

What a night! It was a packed house at the Hartford Marriott for the inaugural Denise D’Ascenzo Foundation Awards Dinner, a sold out event that honors and celebrates the legacy of the late TV news anchor. Denise encouraged openness, courage and kindness, and the awards dinner paid tribute to those who have exemplified these qualities in their lives, inspiring others to make a difference in their communities and in our world. The five 2024 “Human Spirit Award” honorees were chosen from a field of nominees submitted by journalists from all four commercial stations in Connecticut: WTNH, WFSB, WVIT and WTIC. Here they are!  Lesley Bennett – An inspirational advocate for the rare disease community, Lesley has worked with families who have sought medical attention for their children. Her advocacy led to the formation of a State Rare Disease Council, in an effort to put these diseases on a public website where information can help to build public awareness, education, and training, and expand available resources.

 The Bristol Police Department – While grieving the shooting deaths of their fellow officers and concern for the well-being of one of their own, Bristol Police officers entered their cars for their shifts, and bravely returned to the streets to protect and defend their community. They bravely met insurmountable physical and emotional challenges, and their courage elevated residents statewide.

 Jalyn Hunter – Jalyn suddenly became a quadriplegic in April 2019 at age 16, due to sepsis after a ruptured appendix. Today, this dynamic and determined “everyday Warrior” is a Southern Connecticut State University student who works at Home Depot, with a “can do” attitude that resonates with everyone she meets.

 Dr. William A. Petit, Jr. – The tragic and senseless murders of Dr. Petit’s wife, Jennifer Lynn Hawke- Petit, and daughters, Hayley and Michaela, led to the formation of the Petit Family Foundation, that focuses on providing help to educate young people (especially in the sciences), supporting those with chronic illnesses, and protecting those affected by violence.

 Dave Stevens – Born without legs, Dave was a three-sport athlete in high school and became the only legless college football and Minor League Baseball player in College and Pro Sports history. He worked in TV for 40 years, winning seven Sports Emmy's during 20 years at ESPN. A motivational speaker, father of three sons, professor and philanthropist, he helps others to find their potential.

The Denise D’Ascenzo Foundation Kindness award was given posthumously to the late Hartford Deputy Fire Chief Dan Nolan. Throughout his life, Dan Nolan exemplified a kind and giving spirit, whether with children and families in Afghanistan and Iraq, or with friends in need here in Connecticut. Dan is remembered as a person who was passionate about making a positive impact in any way that he could. A U.S. Army veteran, Dan joined the military upon graduation from Windsor High School and served in the Connecticut National Guard for 38 years. He was a lifelong member of the Irish American Home Society in Glastonbury and a second-generation firefighter, following in the footsteps of his father, joining the Hartford Fire Department in 1984. He was one of the many local firefighters who served at Ground Zero at the World Trade Center after the 9/11 attack. Like Denise D’Ascenzo, Dan passed unexpectedly this past March 1st, and he is dearly missed. We want to thank all those who attended, donated auction items and supported this amazing event, especially our premier presenting sponsor, attorney Brooke Goff.