The Gateway Community College Foundation recently inaugurated a new “Gateway Lion Award for Outstanding  Activism on Behalf of Students,” which was presented to Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro, for her unwavering dedication to Gateway students, for community colleges, and for residents throughout her Congressional District and beyond.

The new award has been established as Gateway marks 30 years in the New Haven community and 10 years in downtown New Haven this year. The Congresswoman was celebrated during an October 29 reception in her honor as part of the Gateway Community College Annual Hall of Fame event, which honors local heroes for their community service.

“As we thought about the criteria, and those who have been relentless advocates for our students, Rosa’s name immediately came to mind,” said GCC Foundation Board Chair Helene A. Augustine. “She is someone who year in and year out, for the entirety of her career, has been an effective ally and advocate for our students, for our College, and for higher education.”

Rosa L. DeLauro, who represents Connecticut’s 3rd Congressional District, which includes New Haven and the surrounding area, was touted for her support of college students through increased Pell Grants and childcare initiatives that support parents seeking to complete a college degree to improve their lives and the lives of their families.

“It is entirely fitting that the “Lion” Award is inaugurated in her honor,” said Gateway CEO, William “Terry” Brown. “She is the leader of the pack when it comes to her constituents, and I can say with full confidence that we are proud to be in her pride!”  

The Gateway Community College Foundation’s annual Hall of Fame event is the largest source of academic and technology scholarship dollars raised each year to support Gateway students. Many Gateway students, in addition to pursuing academic credentials, are frontline workers who have been directly impacted by the past year and a half.  Co-Chaired by Ruby H. Melton and LaKisha Jordan, the 2021 Hall of Fame continues with virtual activities through mid-November. Details at www.gatewayfdn.org/hall-of-fame-2021.