Hartford To Host Denise D'Ascenzo Foundation's Human Spirit Awards Dinner

HARTFORD, CT — The Denise D'Ascenzo Foundation will honor individuals and organizations recognized for their courage, kindness, and community service during its third annual Human Spirit Awards Dinner in downtown Hartford next month.

The fundraising event will take place Saturday, Nov. 7, from 6 to 10:30 p.m. at the Hartford Marriott Downtown, 200 Columbus Blvd.

Presented by Johnson Brunetti Retirement & Investment Specialists, the dinner will celebrate the legacy of Denise D'Ascenzo, the beloved WFSB Channel 3 Connecticut television news anchor who died in December 2019.

The foundation established in her memory recognizes individuals and organizations whose work reflects the values of openness, courage, and kindness.

The evening will include a reception with hors d'oeuvres, a plated dinner, a silent auction, and presentation of six awards.

2026 Award Recipients

This year's honorees include:

• Andrea Hurley — Kindness Award: Hurley, the wife of UConn men's basketball coach Dan Hurley, is being recognized for her charitable work supporting Connecticut Children's and other organizations serving children and families. She has also supported the Husky Ticket Project, which helps disadvantaged families attend UConn basketball games.

• The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp — Legacy Award: Founded in 1988 in Ashford by actors and philanthropists Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward, the organization provides recreational experiences and support for children with serious illnesses and their families.

• Crystal R. Emery — Human Spirit Award (posthumous): The late filmmaker, author, and activist is being honored for her advocacy and efforts to expand opportunities for others while living with a rare neuromuscular disease.

• Rabbi Philip Lazowski — Human Spirit Award (posthumous): A Holocaust survivor and religious leader, Lazowski is being recognized for his lifelong commitment to education, remembrance, faith and community service.

• Stephen and Carri Roux, Luke Roux Foundation— Human Spirit Award: The Farmington couple established the foundation after their son, Luke, was killed in a drunken driving crash. The organization honors his memory through charitable initiatives and community support.

• Ali Truwit— Human Spirit Award: The Darien resident lost a leg in a shark attack before returning to competitive swimming and becoming a Paralympic medalist. She is being recognized for her resilience and efforts to inspire others.

Honoring Denise D'Ascenzo's Legacy

The Denise D'Ascenzo Foundation was established in early 2020 following the broadcaster's death.

The nonprofit organization supports medical and health initiatives, responsible journalism, and programs assisting people facing physical and mental challenges.

It also provides financial assistance to organizations and individuals whose work reflects the values associated with D'Ascenzo's legacy.

Since its establishment, the foundation has supported numerous Connecticut organizations, including the Alzheimer's Association Connecticut Chapter, The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Mary’s Place — A Center for Grieving Children & Families, Project Purple and Stew Leonard's Water Safety Foundation.

Proceeds from the Hartford dinner will support the foundation's ongoing charitable work.

Award presenters will include foundation President Dennis House, a news anchor at WTNH-TV Channel 8, and Vice President Kara Sundlun, an anchor at WFSB-TV Channel 3.

Tickets And Event Information

Tickets are available for $195 per person, with tables of 10 available for $1,950.

The dinner will take place at the Hartford Marriott Downtown, located near the Connecticut Convention Center.

Event details include:

• What: Third Annual Denise D'Ascenzo Foundation Human Spirit Awards Dinner
• When: Saturday, Nov. 7, from 6 to 10:30 p.m.
• Where: Hartford Marriott Downtown, 200 Columbus Blvd., Hartford
• Tickets: $195 per person or $1,950 for a table of 10
• Presenting sponsor: Johnson Brunetti Retirement & Investment Specialists
• Registration: Purchase tickets online

For additional information about the event, email liz@lreventsmanagement.com.

Ticket information and information about the foundation and opportunities to donate are available at www.TheDeniseFoundation.com.

From Dec. 7, 2019: 'WFSB News Anchor Denise D'Ascenzo Died Unexpectedly'