Salem Names Evan Dooley As First Sam Zoll Civic Leadership Award Recipient

SALEM, MA — Salem has named Evan Dooley as the inaugural recipient of the Sam Zoll Civic Leadership Award, a new annual honor created by the Salem City Council last September.

The award was created to recognize a living individual who has shown exceptional commitment to public service, civic engagement and the betterment of the Salem community.

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The award honors Salem residents who, in the spirit of Mayor Zoll, dedicate themselves to the often unseen work of strengthening the community each day, including through volunteering, serving on local boards and bringing neighbors together.

A selection committee was formed and solicited nominations from the public over the summer.

City Council President Alice Merkl announced Dooley as the first recipient.

"I am thrilled and honored to present our first Sam Zoll Civic Leadership Award to Evan Dooley," said Salem City Council President Alice Merkl. "I've seen first-hand the work Evan does with the Over the Rainbow Social Club providing support and a safe, welcoming social gathering space for the older generation of our LGBTQIA+ community.

"And that's just part of Evan's story in supporting our Salem communities with a strong focus on inclusivity. Whether it's the Whale Watch trips, dinners at the Gables, BBQ's, movie nights, etc., Evan always brings the 'fun' factor into everything he does."

Dooley was selected for his leadership, service, generosity and advocacy for inclusion. As president of the Board of Directors of Over the Rainbow, he has devoted his time to supporting and serving LGBTQ+ older adults. The city said his work has extended beyond that organization and throughout the community.

"I am truly humbled and honored to be the first recipient of the Sam Zoll Civic Leadership Award," Dooley said. "Salem is an extraordinary community, and what makes our city special is the people who call it home. Through my work with Over the Rainbow, as a co-owner of Pub & Cloth, and in all other community efforts, I've learned that sometimes the most meaningful thing we can do is make people feel seen and included.

"Everyone deserves a place to belong and a community that embraces them for who they are."

Mayor Dominick Pangallo also praised Dooley's selection.

"Evan Dooley exemplifies the very best of Salem's spirit of community and civic engagement," Pangallo said. "Through his leadership with Over the Rainbow and his many other contributions, Evan has helped create meaningful connections, foster a sense of belonging, and ensure that members of our community feel welcomed, valued, and supported."

Dooley will be formally presented with the award at the City Council meeting on Dec. 3.