Worcester Regional Research Bureau announces the recipients of the 2026 Thomas S. Green Public Service Awards!
Since 1988, The Research Bureau has celebrated the unsung heroes of public service through the Thomas S. Green Public Service Awards. The Thomas S. Green Public Service Awards publicly recognize the extraordinary efforts of individuals across the region who have dedicated their careers and personal lives to our communities.
This year, The Research Bureau honors five employees who have made outstanding contributions to public service and embody the ideals of the Thomas S. Green Public Service Awards:
- Exceptional competence and efficient handling of all assigned responsibilities
- Enthusiastic performance of tasks above and beyond the call of duty
- Cooperative, helpful, and friendly attitude toward the public and fellow employees
- Community involvement outside the scope of job-related responsibilities
Christina Connolly, Community Resource Manager, Worcester Public Library
With over 25 years of experience in urban libraries, Christina has helped to reshape what a public library does. She is credited with creating the Community Resources Department at the Library and remains an instrumental part of it, connecting people to housing assistance, food resources, healthcare, employment opportunities, and critical social services. A nominator wrote that “her leadership, compassion, and innovation have had a profound and lasting impact on both the Worcester Public Library and the broader community. The true extent of her service is hard to put into words, as she has had a huge impact on members of our community who are often overlooked and under-served.”
Emily Glaubitz, Manager of Housing Projects, Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Commission
Emily is an effective and impactful planner who has worked on some of the most complex projects in Central Massachusetts. She’s managed Housing Production Plans, Economic Feasibility studies, and Master Plans across the region, including many smaller communities that rely on one-person departments or volunteer planning boards. She tackles each project with thoughtfulness and intentionality; listening to the needs of a community, offering her own insights, and finding collaborative solutions to very difficult problems. “Emily embodies the spirit of public service that this award represents. She is thoughtful, driven, innovative, and deeply committed to improving the quality of life in our communities.”
Richard Gonzalez, Community Navigator & Recovery Coach, Worcester Health & Human Services
Richard “Richie” is an extraordinary asset to the City of Worcester. He consistently goes above and beyond for the most vulnerable members of our community, connecting them with needed mental health and housing support. He championed a Recovery Court Diversion program directing individuals to substance use treatment from incarceration. He is the founder of the not-for-profit Net of Compassion, a lifeline for individuals and families facing homelessness, poverty, and food insecurity. A nominator noted that “Few individuals embody the spirit of service, compassion, and unwavering commitment to community the way he does. His work is not simply a job, it is a calling, and our city is immeasurably better because of him.”
Kelsey Lamoureux, Assistant Director of Innovation Career Pathways, Worcester Public Schools
Kelsey manages the Innovation Career Pathways Program, expanding opportunities for students to participate in career-connected and work-based learning. “Kelsey has an exceptional ability to bridge the worlds of education, workforce development, and business – bringing partners together to create programs that are practical, innovative, and responsive to the needs of both students and employers.” Through Kelsey’s diligence, creativity, and leadership, the program serves over 300 students and has expanded its offerings, building a robust portfolio of partnerships that help equip students with the skills and opportunities to thrive. Because of Kelsey’s tireless work, our youth and Worcester have a brighter future.
Sue Obiero, Parent Information Center Student Assignment Officer, Worcester Public Schools
Sue is the glue of the Parent Information Center; she’s often the first point of contact for families enrolling in Worcester Public Schools. “Fluent in 8 languages, Sue provides and ensures a welcoming and supportive environment for all. From families who are new to the United States or experiencing hardships, to those with questions about specialized programs, Sue has a knack for making sure families get what they need with warmth, compassion, and a smile.” In her 20 years of service, she has assisted thousands of families navigate through school system. She meets every family, and coworker, with a deep sense of respect and collaboration, going far above and beyond the call of duty.
Join us in celebrating the 2026 Thomas S. Green Public Service Award Recipients on June 11th, 5:00PM at the DCU Center. The Event is Free & Open to the Public. All Are Welcome!
The Award is named in memory of Thomas S. Green, a founder of The Research Bureau and one of its original Directors. Mr. Green was a civic leader for many decades and a Vice President of Norton Company (now Saint-Gobain). The Research Bureau’s Award Committee, composed of representatives from diverse community organizations, selected the recipients from nominees submitted by the public. This year’s committee includes: Chair Ché Anderson, Joyce Augustus, Melanie Bonsu, Casey Burns, Katie Crockett, Ellen Ganley, Dave Garvin, Curlisa Henry, Paul Matthews, Michael McDermott, Katelyn O’Brien, Todd Rodman, Hank Stolz, Michelle Tufau Afriyie, and Bobby Yarnie.
Ché Anderson, Chair of the Thomas S. Green Public Service Awards Committee, said “The Committee had a very difficult decision this year. All the submissions represented excellence in public service. These five recipients stood out as selfless and passionate individuals dedicated to making a positive impact in our communities. Congratulations to all five for this well-deserved recognition.”
Paul Matthews, Executive Director and CEO of The Research Bureau, said “The Bureau is honored each year to highlight extraordinary public servants with our Thomas Green Awards, and especially appreciates our committee’s hard work selecting them, given the range of nominations. This year’s honorees exemplify committed public servants on a municipal level, in our schools, and serving our communities with regional planning. We look forward to celebrating their commitment and impact on June 11th, and want to thank the DCU Center and their new General Manager, Amy Peterson, for generously hosting this community event.”
The Research Bureau, founded in 1985, serves the public interest of Greater Worcester by conducting independent, non-partisan research and analysis of public policy issues to promote informed public debate and decision-making.
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