OLD LYME — Noting at the Annual Town Business Meeting that announcing the Old Lyme Citizen of the Year is, “Always one of the most enjoyable parts” of his job, Old Lyme First Selectman Timothy Griswold told the in-person audience of five and some 35 attendees via Webex and phone that, “This year will be the same.”
The meeting was held Monday evening in the Old Lyme Town Hall Meeting Room in a “hybrid” format to allow residents to attend virtually.
He went on to say he was “very pleased” to announce the 2020 recipient as Roger M. Smith, who was, “Selected for his dedication and commitment to numerous, local nonprofit organizations.”
Explaining that he had received nine letters of recommendation for Smith’s nomination, Griswold went on to read from the official Citation for the award, saying, “Roger has been a visionary who inspires those around him to do their best and to see beyond their self-limiting expectations.”
Pointing out that Smith, “Volunteers with several nonprofit organizations and has been described as one of the world’s best listeners, someone who is unafraid to ask the hard questions,” Griswold described Smith as, “A humble leader who will take on any task that will further the mission of the organization, and someone who is forward-thinking – seeing problems and opportunities before others.”
Griswold continued using examples from three non-profits where Smith has volunteered extensively for over 30 years. In the first case, Griswold mentioned High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, Inc., where the organization described Smith as, “an individual with vision who is always prepared to ask hard questions in a manner that provokes constructive thought and facilitates growth. His quiet, supportive leadership has been key in creating an inclusive environment for the organization.”
Adding that, “These sentiments are echoed by the Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library, who believe Roger’s greatest strength as a volunteer and board member is that he is grounded in his belief in people and their capacity to work together to make the world a bigger, brighter, and a more inclusive place,” Griswold emphasized, “Roger is not someone that merely talks about taking action, he consistently and tirelessly works to make things happen.”
Specifically regarding the recent library expansion, Griswold said that Smith’s involvement, “… has been significant, and generations will reap the benefits of the updated building.”
Finally, Griswold quoted from the recommendation sent by the First Congregational Church of Old Lyme, where Roger has served in several leadership capacities. church leaders describe Smith as, “Someone who is willing to take on responsibilities that others may avoid. As a member of the church for over 30 years, Roger helps wherever it is needed, including transporting the family pony, Neil, to the Christmas Eve services to be in the annual Living Manger.”
The citation notes, “Roger’s face beams with joy as he makes sure every child has had a chance to get to know Neil.”
Summing up all the recommendations, Griswold stated, “A true leader is someone who inspires, listens, challenges others gently yet firmly, and believes he is not above any task. Roger has proven himself to be a gift to the Old Lyme community through his selfless devotion to volunteerism and it is our great honor to recognize him as our 2020 Citizen of the Year.”
Smith was present to receive what Griswold described as, “A handsome certificate,” and receive hearty applause from the members of the public in the Town Hall Meeting Room. Griswold said, “We thank you for all of these years [of volunteering] and explained that a gathering earlier in the afternoon* at Smith’s house has taken place to honor Smith and the announcement of his award.
Accepting the award, the ever-humble Smith said, “This is a very nice honor.”
Editor’s Note: *Visit this link to view a video of Roger Smith receiving the surprise news of his award at his home on Monday afternoon.