The Connecticut Main Street Center (CMSC) selected Lauren Coakley Vincent and Elizabeth Donius as the recipients of its 2026 annual awards, recognizing their significant roles in downtown revitalization efforts in Bridgeport and New Haven. Coakley Vincent earned the Quentin Williams Downtown Hero Award for her inclusive leadership, while Donius received the Founder’s Award for her strategic stewardship of Westville Village.
The Quentin Williams Downtown Hero Award, established to honor the legacy of the late state representative Quentin Williams, celebrates leaders dedicated to collaboration and community-centered redevelopment. Coakley Vincent was recognized for spearheading initiatives such as the Colorful Bridgeport content series, which amplifies local voices, uplifts small businesses, and highlights the city’s cultural diversity and creativity. CMSC highlighted her focus on authentic partnerships and sustaining community engagement throughout downtown Bridgeport’s transformation.
Coakley Vincent attributed her success to the wealth of talent and close collaboration within Bridgeport’s community. She emphasized that Colorful Bridgeport’s projects are completely sourced within the city, from artists to entrepreneurs to suppliers, reinforcing local economic growth.
The Founder’s Award acknowledges leadership that embodies a comprehensive vision for revitalizing historic downtown and neighborhood commercial districts. Elizabeth Donius was honored for her long-standing dedication to Westville Village Renaissance Alliance in New Haven, one of the few Connecticut programs accredited by the national Main Street America organization. CMSC praised her role in demonstrating the impact of high-performing main street management on community revitalization.
Both awards will be presented at CMSC’s upcoming State of Main event held at the Warner Theatre in downtown Torrington. The ceremony serves as a platform to celebrate the ongoing efforts to foster inclusive, vibrant downtown spaces throughout Connecticut.