by Alexis Ann
Foxwoods Resort Casino rolled out the red carpet for the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut’s William Crawford Distinguished Service Award recipients from earlier years to this year’s honoree, Dr. Stephen M. Coan, President and CEO Sea Research Foundation, which operates Mystic Aquarium. The Chamber gives this award to an outstanding member of the community who exemplifies the spirit of service and who contributes to the quality of life in Eastern Connecticut.
Tony Sheridan, President and CEO, CCECT, states, “The Crawford Award has a long history of honoring those among us who have contributed a great deal to our region, and this year’s winner is no exception. Steve follows in the tradition of those who came before him.”
As an officer of Sea Research Foundation since 2001, Dr. Stephen Coan was appointed chief operating officer in 2004, and completed a radical restructuring of the organization’s financial platform, including reduction of $20-million in debt. He became president and CEO in 2006. Under his stewardship, the foundation boasts record-setting fundraising and took over the management of JASON Learning from National Geographic Society in 2010. In 2014, Mystic Aquarium was awarded the National Medal for Museum and Library Service at the White House in recognition of its unique array of community and national programs serving at-risk youth and people with special needs.
The Boys and Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley presented the guest of honor with a handcrafted sign, “We Love Immersion mentoring”.
Chairman Rodney Butler, Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, recalled that the Tribe’s work with the Aquarium dates back to the 1990’s. “I’m grateful for the people you’re touching,” announced Rodney. A story blanket and wampum necklace were gifted to Steve by two young Tribal members participating in the Jason Learn Program.
The common theme of all speakers who participated in honoring Steve during this gala was that of accomplishing the mission with his tireless efforts for conservation and marine research. “He’s got a mission and a vision…He’s an educator and visionary who gets things done,” said George Milne,Trustee, Mystic Aquarium.
Exclusive to THE RESIDENT is a reporting by evening security staff at the Mystic Aquarium that at the exact moment that Dr. Coen received the Crawford Award the following occurred – Belugas sent up salutatory spouts, Penguins danced, Seals applauded with their flippers, and fishes formed up to spell out “Proud of You, Doc!” Nature knows all THE GOOD NEWS as does THE RESIDENT!