Mark Henson

Community Champion Award

Mark Henson is Chief of Staff to Congressman Jim Himes, with an impressive record of humble service to the community. A California native, Mark came to Connecticut to work for Himes, an LGBTQ champion on the front lines of a tough race in 2010. Following Himes' victory, Mark rose through the ranks to become Chief of Staff. Since relocating to Washington, DC, Mark has managed a diligent and empathetic case management staff that helps Connecticut residents every day. He has built meaningful partnerships within the local community, including those that have provided millions of dollars to help redevelop Connecticut's oldest public housing facility. His support for the LGBTQ community includes his involvement in the LGBT Victory Fund, supporting LGBTQ candidates nationally. Mark is an out staffer on the Hill, providing a shining example to his staff and others-- through his empathy, compassion, and acts of love. Mark is a longstanding supporter of Triangle Community Center and St. Paul's on the Green, his homes away from home. 

Click here to watch Mark's video.

Amy Rose

Marge Foster Commitment to Service Award

Amy Rose left Triangle Community Center a better place, ready to serve the trans community. Amy began her service at TCC in January of 2007, beginning TCC's first program for the trans community, the Triangle Transgender Society. To this day, Amy leads the Triangle Transgender Society, providing support for the trans community and a forum for friends new and old. Since Amy began her program, hundreds have attended the Triangle Transgender Society, emerging with new friends and a network of support. Amy's work didn't stop there. Amy served on TCC's Board of Directors from 2010 to 2015, overseeing a period of fast-paced and positive change, coordinated visibility events for the trans community, including the Transgender Day of Remembrance, and leading workshops at the annual Transgender Lives Conference.

Click here to watch Amy's video.

George Anderson

Legacy Award

George began his involvement with TCC in 2004, facilitating a series of Board of Directors visioning sessions to address the organization’s current and future states.  These sessions eventually served as the foundation for TCC’s strategic planning which included the expansion of programming and the vision of paid staff. Through the years, George was active on event committees as member and chair;  served as a member of the Board of Directors as it’s Secretary and eventually Vice President.  He has conducted internal training for TCC and even conducted board interview training when they hired the first Executive Director.  He was also an inaugural member of the Founder’s Circle, a group of TCC’s most loyal supporters.  George is SVP and Chief Learning Officer for Synchrony Financial and holds a doctorate in organizational development.

Click here to watch George's video.

Diageo

Community Partner of the Year Award

Diageo has a longstanding history of supporting the LGBTQ community. With inclusive policies and a diverse staff, Diageo prioritizes equality. For years, Diageo has directly supported Triangle Community Center, making the Visionary Party and Pride in the Park possible. Diageo and its employees consistently support local charities in the front lines of providing safe spaces and care in Fairfield County. Diageo proudly earned a 100% rating on HRC's Corporate Equality Index, and its employees are just as proudly part of our core TCC team.

Diageo will be making a special presentation at the Visionary Party VIP Dinner.

Kim Gillece

Volunteer of the Year Award