Encouraging Best Practices

People dedicated to vibrant downtowns – you’ll find them hard at work in communities across Connecticut. CMSC recognizes the exceptional accomplishments of individuals and communities who work to preserve and reinvigorate our historic main streets with our prestigious awards:

• CMSC Founder’s Award: This award is presented in recognition of individuals and organizations who dedicate themselves to promoting an awareness of the necessity of a comprehensive management approach to the revitalization of Connecticut’s historic downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts.
• The Quentin Williams Downtown Hero Award: This new award honors the legacy of state Rep. Quentin “Q” Williams. Q was a great friend of CMSC and a champion for all of Connecticut’s downtowns. This award honors those who embody his greatest strengths, including tireless advocacy, working collaboratively to achieve common goals, bringing a multitude of voices to the fore, and working to create downtowns that are inclusive and welcoming to all.
• The Jack Shannahan Award for Public Service: This award recognizes public and private sector individuals and organizations that exemplify a high standard of leadership with a deep commitment to the success of Connecticut’s Main Streets.
• Awards of Excellence: These awards honor CMSC members – the people, communities and organizations – whose exceptional efforts are contributing to thriving downtowns in Connecticut.

Cover photo credit: Bswope Photo

President + CEO, Bridgeport Special Services District (DSSD)

CMSC is honored to present the 2026 Downtown Hero Award to Lauren Coakley Vincent for her transformative leadership in Downtown Bridgeport. Through many initiatives, such as the delightfully inclusive Colorful Bridgeport content series, she has elevated local voices, supported small businesses, and created vibrant, welcoming experiences that celebrate the city’s diversity and creativity.

Executive Director, Westville Village Renaissance Alliance

CMSC proudly names Lizzy Donius as the 2026 recipient for her outstanding leadership in Westville Village and her deep commitment to Main Street principles. As one of only three programs in the state to be accredited by the national Main Street America organization, Lizzy consistently demonstrates to communities around Connecticut what high performing main street managers can accomplish.