Joanne Nesti receives Haddam Historical Society Award

2013 Founders’ Day Award Presented to Joanne Nesti

Each year, the Haddam Historical Society bestows the Founders’ Day Award to a person who has performed an outstanding service to the Haddam Historical Society and contributed substantially to furthering the mission of the Society. 

Since retiring from her job as a television newscaster in 2006, Joanne Nesti has devoted her time to many worthwhile causes both local and statewide. At the Haddam Historical Society, she has served on the Board of Directors as a member and as treasurer and has volunteered at many events. Never hesitant to ask questions or give her opinion, Joanne always contributes in a constructive and meaningful way. However, it is her dedication to the preservation and future use of the Middlesex County Jail Building that is unparalleled and she has worked tirelessly to make sure the building is stabilized and weather-secure. Joanne is integral to the town appointed Jail Committee, and she has overseen the new roof, demolition of the 1950s addition, window restoration and clean–up. Having worked closely with town and state officials, private parties and potential funders, Joanne is truly the leading advocate for this important local and state landmark.

The Haddam Historical Society is only one of the many organizations with which she is involved. She is active in Capital Planning Committee and was recently elected as a Board of Finance Alternate. Joanne volunteers with the Haddam-Killingworth Hall of Fame Committee and is Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Connecticut Public Affairs Network.  Other organizations benefiting from her time are the Old State House, State Library and Museum of Connecticut History and CRIS radio. Her list of other volunteer activities is long and noteworthy.

The Haddam Historical Society is indeed fortunate to have such an extraordinary, dedicated volunteer, and we are honored to present the 2013 Founders’ Day Award to Joanne Nesti.