AWARDS

The Sally Aubrey Award was established in 1998 by Stever Aubrey in honor of his wife and long-time High Hopes volunteer, Sally. For this award, Stever created the bronze sculpture of a mare and foal displayed at our entrance, and a casting is presented to the recipient. The award is given to an individual who exemplifies the spirit of High Hopes through commitment, dedication, and compassion. This year’s recipient, Barbara Wilkins, consistently demonstrates her dedication and commitment to High Hopes.

Barbara has served for nine years as a trustee, co-chaired the Holiday Market, and served on multiple committees. Her hard work as Auction Chair for the annual June Benefit is exceptional. A force to be reckoned with, Barbara is enthusiastic, kind, knowledgeable, and supportive, embodying the spirit of the Sally Aubrey Award in every way. Thank you, Barbara, for your many years of dedication, and commitment to High Hopes. You make a difference.

Established in 2006, the Lytt Gould Award recognizes extraordinary and exemplary leadership. It is an honor to recognize Koko Gildersleeve, who like Lytt, demonstrates leadership, vision, and commitment to the sustainability and future growth of High Hopes. Through her action, words, and deeds, Koko places High Hopes at the forefront of her philanthropic organizations.

Koko served on the Board of Trustees for nine years and shared her expertise on both the Governance and Volunteer Committees. Koko’s commitment to volunteerism extends beyond her local community of Stonington. It was as a sidewalker that she first embraced her passion for our mission. Koko is a generous supporter of the philanthropic priorities at High Hopes and is a member of the Legacy Society, recognizing her planned gift to support High Hopes’ future. We celebrate Koko with this special award and thank her for being a High Hopes champion.

Chris Berger - Chris is the Managing Director and Human Resources

Co-Practice Leader at Diversified Search Group with over 24 years of executive search experience. Chris has a BA from University of Connecticut. A current High Hopes volunteer, he volunteers for many other clubs as a coach and mentor. He is a past Hamburg Cove Yacht Club Bridge Member and Trustee and current Admissions Committee Member. Chris has three grown children and has lived in Old Lyme for 26 years.

Affiliation: Diversified Search Group

Wendy Visgilio - Wendy is a realtor with Coldwell Banker in Old Lyme, Connecticut. Wendy and her husband John have raised their four children, Brenna, Will, John Michael and Evan in the Old Lyme community over the last thirty years. Their youngest, Evan has been an active rider with High Hopes since preschool and found great joy while John and Wendy saw remarkable benefits and outcomes. Wendy holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from the University of Connecticut.

Affiliation: Coldwell Banker