Sports
New Canaan Native Christopher "Mad Dog" Russo Honored by Fairfield University
SiriusXM's Christopher Russo was honored with the inaugural "Stags Award" by Fairfield . John Starks and Chris Elsberry were also honored.
“The Stags Awards are a way for Fairfield University to recognize individuals in the greater Connecticut area for their work in their communities,” Director of Athletics Gene Doris said.
“As a Jesuit institution, Fairfield University emphasizes the importance of making a difference in our community by giving of oneself for the benefit of others. I believe John Starks, Chris Russo, and Chris Elsberry epitomize the essence of the Stags Service Awards.”
A longtime Stamford resident, Starks founded the John Starks Foundation in 1994, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing financial assistance to high school seniors in the form of academic scholarships.
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In addition, the Foundation provides community programs focused on furthering the educational, recreational, and career development of children and their families.
Each year, the John Starks Foundation awards academic scholarships to students from various Tulsa and New York/Tri-State area high schools. Scholarship recipients are selected based upon financial need, exemplary academic achievement, and a commitment to community service.
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Sirius XM Radio/MLB Network’s Russo has called Connecticut home for nearly two decades since 1996. He has provided insight and commentary on college and professional sports for three decades.
Russo remains active in the community through his work with youth and local sports programs. He has done work and made appearances for many local charitable organizations and has been honored by several charities for his efforts in making a difference in people’s lives.
Chris, his wife Jeanne, and their four children Timothy, Patrick, Colin and Kiera reside in New Canaan.
Elsberry has provided insight to the local, regional, and national sports scene since joining the Bridgeport Post-Telegram/Connecticut Post in 1984.
Elsberry has championed the cause of so many organizations, helping them reach out to the community through his stories and features.
His ability to capture the essence of all that is good in sports, regardless of amateur or professional makes him an invaluable member of the Bridgeport community.
