In June, Suffield Rotary Club honored two people for exemplary service above self, Rotary’s guiding motto, by designating them as Paul Harris Fellows.
Recognized for outstanding service were Nancy Vigganio and Art Christian.
Nancy Viggiano has served Suffield Rotary for over 15 years, serving on the scholarship committee, the golf tournament committee, supporting the chicken barbeque, food drives and almost every event the club has undertaken. Additionally, she has served for many years on the board of directors of Suffield Community Aid. She also served on the board of directors of the Antiquarian and Landmark Society which owns and operates Hathaway House and over a dozen similar museums across Connecticut.
Professionally Nancy worked in banking, starting at Suffield Savings, eventually becoming Webster Bank, and later moving to First National Bank of Suffield. She became president of FNBS, one of the few female community bank presidents in Connecticut.
Art Christian has served the Suffield community as chairman of the Conservation Commission since 1985. He also served as second selectman for four years.
Art and the Christian family have supported numerous functions and activities in town, most notable by the use of Christian Field for the Little League baseball program.
Additionally, the Christian family tobacco farm has consistently hired local young people, giving them an opportunity to learn the importance of a job and hard work.
The Paul Harris recognition, named for Rotary founder Paul Harris, is made annually by Suffield Rotary to club and community members by making a significant donation in their name to the Rotary International Foundation. In the last 50 years, Suffield Rotary has designated 84 individuals as Paul Harris Fellows, an internationally recognized honor.