MONROE, Conn. — Adrienne Stepkoski takes leadership roles on ADAM, encouraging teenagers to avoid abusing drugs and alcohol, and the Post Prom, so Masuk High School’s seniors and juniors have a safe place for food and fun with their dates after Prom.
Masuk’s student athletes benefit from new equipment, while fans enjoy a smoothly run concession stand at varsity games. This is all made possible through Stephanie Batch’s leadership roles in fundraising and overseeing fellow volunteers as vice president of the Masuk All Sports Booster Club. Batch is also on the Masuk Hall of Fame Committee, which recognizes the outstanding players, coaches and athletic directors who left their mark on Masuk sports over the years.
The two women were honored as recipients of the 2026 Regina Ogden Friends of Education awards during a ceremony in the Masuk media center Monday evening.
“It’s wonderful to be together tonight, as we celebrate the individuals who help make our schools and community stronger through their dedication and service,” Assistant Superintendent Sheila Casinelli said from the podium. “On behalf of the entire district, I’d like to begin by thanking the Parents’ Council for organizing this special event, and for the countless ways they support our students, families and schools throughout the year.”
“One of the strengths of any community is the willingness of people to give of themselves for the benefit of others,” Casinelli continued. “Volunteers embody that spirit every day. They contribute their time, talents and energy, not because they seek recognition, but because they care deeply about helping students thrive and creating opportunities for success.”
“This evening, we have the privilege of recognizing two exceptional individuals whose commitment and generosity have left a meaningful and lasting impact on our district,” she said. “Their service reflects the very best of what community involvement can be, and we are grateful for all they have done to support our students, staff and schools.”
Board of Education Chairman Dennis Condon and board members Jack Testani, Chrissy Martinez, Sunny Gill and Greg Beno attended the ceremony, along with family and friends of Batch and Stepkoski. Tim Dunham, co-president of the Monroe Parents’ Council, introduced each award winner and presented her with a certificate.
“Tonight’s about service, community and the impact that volunteers have on the lives of our students,” Dunham said.
He shared a quote from author, Elizabeth Andrew, which he said reflected the spirit of the occasion: “Volunteers do not necessarily have the time, they just have the heart.”
Dunham said the Regina Ogden Friends of Education Award was created to honor individuals who made extraordinary contributions to the Monroe public school system.
“There are people who consistently step forward to support students, staff, families and programs, not for recognition or applause, but because they genuinely care,” he said. “This year’s honorees exemplify everything the school board represents, countless hours of service and leadership, positivity and dedication. They strengthen our schools and enrich the educational experience for students throughout Monroe.”
“Their contributions may happen behind the scenes, but the impact is seen throughout our schools every day,” Dunham said.
Adrienne Stepkoski
Dunham said many residents first got to know Adrienne Stepkoski through her involvement in Jockey Hollow Middle School’s drama program, just before COVID.
“Even then, she stood out,” he said, “not because she sought recognition, but because she quietly and consistently made things better for everyone around her. She brings endless energy, organization and enthusiasm, while providing a calming reassuring presence behind the scenes. She is simply the kind of volunteer every school hopes to have.”
While Monroe navigated the uncertainty and challenges of a lockdown during the pandemic, Dunham said Stepkoski continued to show up, supporting charitable drives, coordinating community efforts, assisting teachers through the PTO Sunshine Committee, and lifting others up through difficult times.
“She’s a shining example of kindness, reliability and service,” Dunham said. “Over the years, Adrienne’s impact has only continued to grow.”
Stepkoski has been a supporter and leader for Masuk’s Post Prom, Drama Club, the Parents’ Council, ADAM, student activities, teacher appreciation efforts and other school-wide events, according to Dunham.
“She’s dedicated countless hours to organize fundraisers, coordinate volunteers, decorate events, communicate important information to families and create meaningful experiences,” he said.
Dunham read aloud comments others shared about Stepkoski:
For many years Adrienne has been a dedicated and enthusiastic supporter of the Masuk community, consistently putting students and staff first, whether organizing events, providing supplies and snacks or simply offering a helping hand when needed, Adrienne could always be counted on to support others.
She also brings a positive presence, thoughtful dedication and tireless efforts and helps strengthen the sense of community at Masuk, and has made a lasting difference for both students and staff.
“I specifically have noticed her work, between ADAM and Post Prom,” Dunham said. “At Parents’ Council meetings, when she talks, you can hear her and feel her strong desire to see students have a safe, healthy and fun time. Anyone who’s volunteered for Post Prom knows the amount of effort that goes into planning, fundraising, decorating, coordinating and, most importantly, the sacrifices that are made to make it happen.”
Stephanie Batch
For more than six years, Dunham said Stephanie Batch has been a driving force behind Masuk athletics and an extraordinary example of what dedicated volunteerism can accomplish.
“As vice president of the Masuk All Sports Booster Club and a member of the Masuk Hall of Fame Committee, Stephanie has devoted countless hours to supporting student athletes and strengthening school spirit,” he said. “Stephanie’s impact can be seen everywhere, from concession stands at varsity sporting events to fundraising initiatives that directly benefit Masuk athletics.”
“Without recognition and with incredible dedication,” Dunham said Batch is always willing to do whatever is needed to coordinate volunteers, prepare for events and organize tournaments, while ensuring every detail runs smoothly.
“Her leadership helped modernize and elevate athletic fundraising throughout Monroe,” he said. “Stephanie played a key role in revitalizing concession operations, building a state-of-the-art point of sales system, digital menu boards, and building a strong network of volunteers to sustain and grow these programs.”
Batch recently organized the Masuk All Sports Booster Club’s brick campaign, an initiative supporting the installation of a new video board at Benedict Field.
Dunham said Batch’s dedication to Masuk athletics earned the admiration of Principal Steve Swensen, who said, “she’s demonstrated an incredible commitment to supporting Masuk athletics and students who participate in it through organizational fundraisers, including highly successful golf tournaments and community events. She’s provided athletic programs with essential equipment, resources and opportunities that enhance the experience for both students and coaches.”
Swensen said Batch’s “passion, leadership and tireless efforts have made a lasting and meaningful impact on the Masuk community.”
“Beyond fundraising totals and successful events, including helping to generate more than $100,000 in support of Masuk athletics, what sets Stephanie apart is the energy and positivity she brings to everything she does,” Dunham said. “She’s a constant and encouraging presence for student athletes, families, coaches and fellow volunteers. Her pride in the program, commitment to students, and willingness to help whenever it’s needed has made a meaningful impact and lasting difference throughout the Monroe school community.”
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