Fairfield University's 37th Annual Fairfield Awards Dinner Set For Next Month

FAIRFIELD, CT — The 37th annual Fairfield Awards Dinner, a signature event for Fairfield University and its primary fundraiser for student scholarships, is scheduled for April 15 at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City, organizers announced.

Since it began, the annual dinner has raised more than $24 million to support scholarships for first-generation students and those with significant financial need.

The April gala will include a cocktail reception, dinner, and a program recognizing this year’s award recipients (see below).

During the event, the university will present honors to alumni, parents, faculty, administrators, and community members. Awards will be given in several categories, including Alumni Professional Achievement, Alumni Service, Distinguished Faculty/Administrator, Parent Leadership, and Special Recognition. Organizers say the event also provides an opportunity for members of the Fairfield community to connect while supporting the university’s St. Ignatius Scholarship Fund.

Sports broadcaster Chris Miles, a member of the Fairfield University Class of 2003, will serve as emcee. Miles has more than 17 years of experience covering major sporting events, including the NCAA Men's Final Four, the College Football Playoff National Championship, multiple Super Bowl games, and professional basketball and baseball.

Trish Comey Preston, a member of the Class of 1980, and Matthew C. Kramer, a member of the Class of 1996 and parent of a Fairfield student in the Class of 2028, will return as co-chairs of the 2026 dinner.

More information about the Fairfield Awards Dinner, including registration and opportunities to support scholarships, is available at Fairfield University’s website or by contacting Carolyn Garibaldi at 203-254-4000, ext. 2174, or cgaribaldi@fairfield.edu

This year's honorees include:

Alumni Professional Achievement Award:

Gavin G. O’Connor ’88, P’24
Group Chief Operating Officer, Point72 L.P.

Alumni Service Award:

Rudolph (Vic) V. Pino Jr. ’73, P’05, ’01
Of Counsel, Wood Smith Henning & Berman LLP

Distinguished Administrator Award:

Nakia N. Létang
Director of Admission, Fairfield Bellarmine

Parent Leadership Award:

Frank J. Nigro III and Melissa H. Nigro, P’27, ’25
Co-Chairs, Executive Parents Leadership Council

Special Recognition:

Jay R. DeGioia ’80
District Manager, Aramark