MONROE, Conn. — Karen Cardi is someone who prefers to work behind the scenes while volunteering for the Monroe Historical Society, serving as a home delivery driver for the Monroe Food Pantry and when she led Masuk High School’s Post Prom Committee for a 15 year run. But her good works in the community have not gone unnoticed. She is one of 15 people the Rotary Club of Monroe honored with Service Above Self Awards at its annual breakfast at Whitney Farms Golf Club Thursday morning.
Cardi also held leadership roles for Monroe Newcomers and Neighbors, the Fawn Hollow Talent Show, was a leader and mentor with the Monroe Girl Scouts, served on the board of the Monroe First Foundation, on the Monroe Food Pantry Planning Committee and chaired the Friends of Edith Wheeler Memorial Library’s book sale.
Constantin Crama, owner of Monroe Social, a restaurant at 494 Main St., won in the business category. Beyond running a successful business in town, he is known for his community spirit and generosity. Crama serves hot chocolate and cider at the Monroe Women’s Club’s annual Tree Lighting, organizes school fundraising events for Parent Teacher Organizations, and coordinates an annul golf tournament benefiting the Sterling Community Center in Stratford among his charitable initiatives.
“I want to say thank you to everybody and the Monroe community,” Crama said from the podium. “I just think it’s normal. Everybody should try to help everybody when they can, and that’s pretty much what I’m trying to do. I’m trying to teach my son to be kind and try to help whenever he can with whatever he can. Thank you for the recognition and thank you for everybody who’s here with me.”
Lauren Iverson, a Spanish teacher and chair of the World Language Department at Masuk High School, where she also serves as an advisor for the Interact Club, was recognized in the education category for distinguishing herself as a passionate educator, dedicated leader and tireless advocate for student growth, both inside and outside the classroom. She is known, not only for her commitment to academic excellence, but also for fostering a culture of empathy, inclusion and service to her students.
Iverson thanked the presenters for their kind words. “I will say honestly that the best part about what I’m doing is sharing the joy of being part of the community with the kids,” she said. “I feel like I’m getting an award for something I enjoy doing.”
First Selectman Terry Rooney read a proclamation for each of the adult award recipients and Monroe’s state delegation — Rep. Tony Scott, R-Monroe, and senators Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox, D-22nd, and Jason Perillo, R-21st — presented citations from the Connecticut Legislature thanking them for their service to the community.
Superintendent Joseph Kobza, who is a Rotarian, presented awards to students with assistance from Masuk Principal Steve Swensen and Assistant Principal Mark Schwarz.
Students earning Service Above Self Awards included:
Derek Heffelfinger, grade 12, an Eagle Scout with Troop 63, has demonstrated exceptional dedication, logging over 100 nights of camping, earning more than 20 merit badges and serving in numerous leadership roles, including Senior Patrol Leader and Assistant Patrol Leader. He is a licensed emergency medical technician and he contributes his talents to theater and the arts. Heffelfinger consistently prioritizes helping others, embodying the true service, leadership, and compassion central to the Rotary’s mission.
Adeline Kellogg, grade 12, demonstrates consistent dedication to service, leadership, and community engagement. Kellogg spent multiple summers improving homes for families in need across several states, contributing to roofing and siding projects through her involvement with the Appalachia Service Project. At Masuk she is a Student Government representative, contributes to the Cultural Fair celebrating diversity and promoting global awareness while working at the France and Canada booths. Kellogg was also nominated as Barnum Queen.
Caleb Drew, grade 11, contributes his time and talents across a wide range of activities, including serving as Freshmen Orientation Guide and an 8th Grade Open House tour guide, helping younger students feel welcomed and connected. Drew supported school events as Parent-Teacher Conference secretary, and participates in community efforts like the Best Buddies Walk, promoting inclusion and acceptance. Through his involvement in music, he performs at events like Think Pink. Drew works with theater crew and various student organizations and was named Prince for the upcoming Barnum Festival. He was honored for his consistent engagement, leadership, compassion, and strong commitment to serving others.
Megan Putnam, grade 11, made a difference through her involvement with the SWAG holiday gift-giving event in Bridgeport, helping ensure children in need experience joy during the holiday season. As co-founder of AniMeals Monroe, Putnam demonstrated leadership, initiative and compassion by organizing a community-wide pet food drive supporting senior citizens caring for their pets. Other involvement in public service includes literacy outreach with elementary students, participation in the Monroe Peace Pole Ceremony, and volunteering at the Harmony Grange Easter Egg Hunt. Whether mentoring youth, supporting families or working behind the scenes, Putnam consistently gives her time and energy to improve the lives of others, truly embodying the spirit of service, leadership and community engagement.
Ava Cubelli, grade 10, is a key liaison for Masuk’s Think Pink Monroe events, playing an integral role in planning and coordinating activities, working closely with community partners and student groups to support a meaningful cause. She actively contributes to a variety of school and community efforts, including assisting with pre-Prom set-up, creating banners and posters for events, and participating in clubs like B+ and Spanish Club. Cubelli volunteers at local events like the Fawn Hollow picnic and supports youth engagement through cheer demonstrations. Cubelli’s consistent involvement highlights her willingness to give her time and energy to make a positive impact on others.
Lorenzo Lucas, grade 10, is a volunteer with the YMCA Halloween event, where he has helped plan and set up activities, led games and guided children and families to ensure an enjoyable and welcoming experience for all. In his role as Wingman Leader, Lucas has taken on a mentorship position, assisting with freshmen orientation and open house events while helping new students transition confidently into high school. He also leads RISE classes and contributes to school events such as movie nights, consistently fostering a sense of belonging and connection. Lucas’ willingness to give his time and energy to help others feel included and supported reflects his strong character, leadership and dedication to making a positive impact on his community.
Christopher Cerrato, grade 9, is an active member of the Interact Club, volunteering at events such as Cancer Nights, Latin Night and community gatherings, consistently giving his time to support meaningful causes. He’s involved in Monroe Congregational Church’s Senior Pilgrim Fellowship, participating in service projects such as clean-up efforts and bottle drives. Through Boy Scouts of America, Cerrato has taken on numerous leadership roles, including Senior Patrol Leader, demonstrating responsibility, mentorship and a commitment to helping others grow. His teamwork and initiative shows in his service as social media officer for French Club and participation in Robotics. Across all areas, Cerrato consistently prioritizes service, leadership and community impact, embodying the true spirit of Rotary’s mission.
Isabelle Dodge, grade 9, is a counselor-in-training at Monroe Summer Day Camp, where she supports younger children, helping create a safe and positive environment. Dodge is an active volunteer at Fawn Hollow, assisting with the library, holiday breakfast, end-of-year picnic and community events, as well as contributing to the winter festival at Jockey Hollow. Her commitment to inclusion is evident through her involvement in Unified Sports and Best Buddies, where she builds meaningful connections and fosters a sense of belonging for all students. Through the Student Services Club, Dodge extends her service to the broader community by decorating the Senior Center, playing bingo with residents, and supporting patients at St. Vincent’s Medical Center. Dodge’s thoughtful actions and ongoing service reflect compassion, leadership and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of others.
Dylan Loppe, grade 8, always had an interest in helping children. He has volunteered at Newtown’s Community Center for several summers, logging in over 200 hours as a counselor-in-training for second and third grade campers, as well as implementing a weekly arts and crafts enrichment club to brighten the camp experience for children. In Jockey Hollow’s performing arts program he is a leader in plays and musicals, helping new students learn their roles. Loppe truly represents Lion’s Pride!
Christopher “CJ” Budjinski, grade 8, is a highly respected student at Jockey Hollow’s STEM Campus, who has been in Scouting since first grade and is ranked as a Star Scout. Budjinski assisted his fellow Scouts in numerous Eagle projects around Monroe, and intends to earn the prestigious rank himself one day. He volunteers at St. Peter’s Grace Episcopal Church’s Apple Festival, and as an alter server at St. Jude Church, where he is always willing to help with church projects. This young man’s actions have already improved his community.
Audrey Chang, grade 7, is passionate about learning and always seems to find herself in a teaching role. A well-rounded athlete, she finds coaching opportunities in tennis, volleyball and taekwondo, where she is a frequent demonstrator. A pillar of the school orchestra, she leads sectionals and helps younger students with their music. Chang looks forward to joining Students Activities next year, loves bringing joy to other people and notes the positive connections people can make when they work together.
Molly Howard, grade 7, is a STEM campus student who loves doing community service and helping others. She has been a Girl Scout since kindergarten, taking part in various community service projects over the years. She is a member of the middle school VEX robotics team, enjoys aspects of engineering, teamwork and competition, and is always willing to volunteer at robotics events.
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