CEA will celebrate 177 years of advocating for public education at its anniversary gala on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Anthony’s Ocean View in New Haven. This year’s event will honor outstanding educators and dedicated advocates while raising funds for the Connecticut Education Foundation, CEA’s charitable arm.
This gala is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the unwavering dedication and profound impact of Connecticut’s educators on our students and communities,” said Connecticut Education Foundation President Joslyn DeLancey. “We are thrilled to gather and recognize those who go above and beyond every day. The funds raised provide essential resources for students in need and directly support the next generation of teachers, ensuring a strong future for public education in our state.”
A highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the CEA Excellence in Education Advocacy Awards. This year’s distinguished honorees are:
- CEA Excellence in Education Advocacy Award: Senator Julie Kushner
- CEA Excellence in Education Advocacy Award: Attorney General William Tong
- Early Career Educator: Ashley Beal, Shepherd Glen Elementary School teacher, Hamden
- Retired Educator: William Myers, South Windsor
- Administrator: Paul Guzzo, Metacomet Elementary School principal, Bloomfield
Matt Scott of FOX61 will emcee the evening’s festivities.
The gala is made possible through the generous support of its sponsors, including title sponsor Dalio Education and platinum sponsor VRsim.
“Thank you so much, CEA, for your generous spirit,” said Barbara Dalio, Founder and CEO of Dalio Education. “You have a tremendous awareness of what is needed to thrive.”
Proceeds from the event benefit the Connecticut Education Foundation’s scholarship programs, including the DiGiovanni Future Teacher Scholarship Fund and the Racially & Ethnically Diverse Educator Scholarship, as well as the Foundation’s Children’s Fund, which provides essential items for students’ immediate needs.
Those unable to attend can contribute to the Foundation’s mission by making a donation at cea.networkforgood.com/.
