The Pawtucket Foundation — 25th Awards Celebration

A Letter from the Executive Director

Building Pawtucket's Future, Together

Welcome to The Pawtucket Foundation's 25th Awards Celebration, commemorating a quarter century of impact as well as our illustrious class of 2026 honorees. Tonight is an opportunity to pause, reflect, and celebrate the extraordinary momentum shaping our city's future. We gather here as catalysts for investment, collaboration, and visionary leadership that advances Pawtucket toward an even more prosperous future.

Pawtucket is rising to meet a defining moment in its history. From the continued growth surrounding Tidewater Landing and Rhode Island FC to the expanding possibilities created by the Pawtucket-Central Falls Transit Center, our city is emerging as a dynamic hub for commerce, culture, housing, and entertainment. Strategic investments are reactivating our riverfront, revitalizing downtown, and positioning Pawtucket as a regional center of influence.

These developments reflect a collective belief in the promise of Pawtucket.

At The Pawtucket Foundation, we believe meaningful transformation requires partnership across every sector. Government leaders, businesses, educational institutions, nonprofits, philanthropists, and residents each have a vital role in shaping a city that is attractive, livable, sustainable, and inclusive. We remain committed to investing not only in physical infrastructure, but also in our human capital.

This past year has shown what is possible when vision is matched with action. The energy surrounding Pawtucket is undeniable, and the opportunities ahead are substantial. Yet our greatest strength continues to be our people. Tonight's gathering of dedicated individuals and organizations demonstrates our shared willingness to work collectively in pursuit of something greater than ourselves.

As we honor tonight's award recipients, let us also renew our commitment to building a Pawtucket that is vibrant, equitable, innovative, and resilient for generations to come.

Pawtucket's future is bright, and together, we are building it.

Gaetan L. Kashala

Executive Director, The Pawtucket Foundation

Tonight at a Glance

Registration & Refreshments5:30 PM

Opening Remarks6:10 PM

Mayor's Remarks6:15 PM

Awards Program6:20 PM

Governor's Remarks7:00 PM

Networking7:10 PM

Bar Closes7:30 PM

View Full Program →

Class of 2026

Meet the Honorees

Exceptional leaders whose contributions continue to make a lasting impact on the Pawtucket community.

Heritage Award

Congressman Gabe Amo

First District · U.S. House of Representatives

A Pawtucket native and the son of Ghanaian and Liberian immigrants, Congressman Amo has dedicated his career to public service, focusing on economic opportunity, support for working families, and investments in infrastructure, education, and community development across Rhode Island. The Heritage Award recognizes his unwavering commitment to enhancing Pawtucket's economic vitality and quality of life. His leadership and advocacy have helped preserve, promote, and celebrate the city's rich heritage, culture, and vibrant community spirit.

Development Award

Elizabeth "Liz" Catucci

Executive Director · Partnership for Rhode Island

Liz Catucci is Executive Director of the Partnership for Rhode Island, where she collaborates with the state's leading employers to advance economic development, workforce growth, infrastructure, and business attraction initiatives. Previously, as President and CEO of the Northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce, she championed small businesses and guided the business community through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Development Award recognizes Liz's exceptional contributions to economic opportunity and mobility in Pawtucket. Through her collaborative leadership and commitment to community growth, she has helped strengthen the city's economy and enhance quality of life for residents and businesses alike.

Person of the Year

Harold "Hal" Horvat

President & CEO · Centreville Bank

Hal Horvat is President and CEO of Centreville Bank, one of Rhode Island's longest-standing community banks, where he leads with a focus on innovation, customer service, and community impact. Under his leadership, Centreville Bank has strengthened its support for local businesses, nonprofits, and economic development initiatives across the region. A respected financial and civic leader, Hal is deeply committed to strengthening Rhode Island communities and expanding opportunities for residents and entrepreneurs. His leadership, vision, and dedication have made a lasting impact on Pawtucket's economic vitality and civic life, exemplifying the spirit of collaboration, innovation, and service celebrated by the Person of the Year Award.

May 26, 2026 · Centreville Bank Stadium

Order of Proceedings

5:30

Registration & Light Refreshments

Welcome drinks and hors d'oeuvres · Main entrance

6:10

Opening Remarks

Dan Sullivan & Jeremy Duffy

6:15

Remarks from Mayor Donald Grebien

City of Pawtucket

6:20

Awards Program

2026 Honorees recognized

Development Award

Elizabeth "Liz" Catucci

Heritage Award

Congressman Gabe Amo

Person of the Year

Harold "Hal" Horvat

7:00

Remarks from Governor Dan McKee

State of Rhode Island

7:05

Program Close

Gaetan L. Kashala, Executive Director

7:10

Networking

Bar closes at 7:30 PM

A Quarter Century of Impact

25 Years of the Pawtucket Foundation

Since 2001, a catalyst for investment, collaboration, and visionary leadership across Pawtucket and Rhode Island.

Years of Community Impact

75+

Leaders Recognized

Annual Award Celebrations

2001

Foundation Established

The Pawtucket Foundation is established by Dan Sullivan, Jack Partridge, and Jack R. Nixon to advance economic development, strengthen community partnerships, and champion the long-term vitality of the City of Pawtucket.

2002

First Awards Celebration

The Foundation hosts its inaugural Awards Celebration, launching a tradition of recognizing the individuals, businesses, and organizations whose leadership and commitment help shape Pawtucket's future.

2005

Arts District Takes Root

Building on the Rhode Island General Assembly's 1998 designation of a 307-acre Arts and Entertainment District in downtown Pawtucket, the city expands its creative economy through the opening of the Jacqueline M. Walsh School for the Performing and Visual Arts and the adaptive reuse of historic mill buildings. These investments help establish Pawtucket as a destination for artists, entrepreneurs, and creative industries.

2013

Armory Arts District Streetscape

The Pawtucket Foundation partners with the Armory Arts District Streetscape Committee to implement banners, landscaping, and gateway improvements that enhance neighborhood identity, strengthen walkability, and contribute to downtown revitalization.

2014

Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park

Slater Mill becomes part of the newly established Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park, following legislation championed by U.S. Senator Jack Reed. The designation elevates Pawtucket's role in the story of the American Industrial Revolution and strengthens the city's appeal as a destination for heritage tourism and civic pride.

2018

Riverfront Revitalization

Foundation advocacy and investment help catalyze transformative riverfront improvements, reconnecting residents and visitors to Pawtucket's waterfront while supporting new opportunities for recreation, commerce, and economic growth.

2019

Rhode Island FC & Tidewater Landing Announced

The vision for Tidewater Landing takes shape with the founding of Rhode Island FC and plans for a transformative mixed-use development along the Seekonk River. The project promises professional soccer, new housing, restaurants, retail, and expanded public waterfront access.

2023

Pawtucket–Central Falls Transit Center Opens

The Pawtucket–Central Falls Transit Center opens on January 23, connecting the city to Boston via MBTA commuter rail and to Rhode Island's statewide transit network. The long-anticipated investment strengthens regional connectivity and positions Pawtucket for future transit-oriented development.

2024

National Recognition

Pawtucket receives national recognition for its momentum and quality of life. MoneyGeek ranks the city among America's top up-and-coming small cities, while Money magazine names Pawtucket one of the 50 Best Places to Live in the United States, citing its vibrant arts scene, affordability, and growing opportunities.

2024

Unified High School

At an estimated $326 million, the construction of the new Pawtucket High School is the single largest and most expensive individual school construction project in Rhode Island's history. Pawtucket moved from concept and voter approval into the implementation phase of a new unified high school on the former McCoy Stadium property.

2025

Centreville Bank Stadium Opens

Rhode Island FC inaugurates Centreville Bank Stadium at Tidewater Landing on May 3, 2025. The new waterfront venue quickly emerged as a regional destination for sports and entertainment, drawing more than 219,000 fans across all events during its inaugural year.

2026

25th Awards Celebration

Commemoration of The Pawtucket Foundation's 25 years of impact. The evening honored the visionaries, community leaders, businesses, and residents who have helped transform Pawtucket into one of Rhode Island's most dynamic and promising cities. As we reflect on how far we've come, we look ahead with confidence that the best is yet to come.

Community

Words from Our Leaders

"I'm proud to recognize the honorees for their dedication and contributions to our City. Their leadership and commitment continue to strengthen our community and move Pawtucket forward. This celebration reflects the progress we've made together and the bright future ahead."

Mayor Donald R. Grebien

City of Pawtucket

"Progress means leading alongside your community — listening first, building strong partnerships, and sustaining the work that helps communities thrive over time."

Centreville Bank

On Hal Horvat, Person of the Year

"We're proud to stand with The Pawtucket Foundation and celebrate another remarkable year of community growth, leadership, and impact."

Collette

Event Sponsor

"Celebrating the people and partners shaping Pawtucket's future — and congratulations to The Pawtucket Foundation on 25 years of extraordinary impact."

Partridge Snow & Hahn LLP

Providence · Boston · Southcoast

Share Your Evening

Help Us Memorialize This Milestone Night

The 25th Awards Celebration deserves to live beyond this evening. Submit your photos, videos, and reflections — your contributions will become part of the official Foundation archive and may be featured in our post-event publication.

We welcome photos with honorees, candid moments, personal reflections, and any memories that captured the spirit of tonight.

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Photos & Videos

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Quotes & Reflections

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Honoree Tributes

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25th Anniversary Archive

Your contributions will be preserved in the Foundation's permanent record

From Past Celebrations

"The Pawtucket Foundation doesn't just celebrate what Pawtucket is — it invests in what Pawtucket can become."

2025 Awards Celebration

"Twenty-five years of bringing people together around a shared vision for one city. That's not a milestone — that's a movement."

Community Leader · 2024

Submit Your Memories

Submissions accepted now through June 30, 2026

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Thank You!

Your contribution has been received and will be reviewed by The Pawtucket Foundation team. It may be featured in the official 25th Anniversary memorial publication. We're grateful you were here tonight.

With Gratitude

Thank You to Our Sponsors

The Pawtucket Foundation extends sincere gratitude to all sponsors, partners, and supporters whose generosity made the 2026 Awards Celebration possible.

Your support strengthens our mission to advance economic development, foster community partnerships, and champion the continued growth and vitality of the City of Pawtucket. Because of your investment in this event and in our community, we are able to celebrate the individuals, organizations, and initiatives that continue to move Pawtucket forward.