STG named awards are created by donors in honor or in memory of a person, family, or organization. Established and funded by individuals, companies, civic groups and foundations, these awards – like all STG awards – benefit Staples High School graduates with demonstrated financial need. Some awards are established by their donors to be directed towards students with specific accomplishments, interests, or academic pursuits. Named awards are either endowed to fund grants in perpetuity, or funded annually with an initial minimum commitment of 4 years.
The below list of awards (listed alphabetically by last name) is a testament to the people, stories, and history of the incredible Westport community we call home.
Noel Pasacreta de Caprio was a member of the Staples Class of 1957. She was the founder and owner of Noelle Spa for Beauty and Wellness in Stamford and a pioneer in her industry as the creator of the day spa concept. In 1987, following a diagnosis of breast cancer, she incorporated healing, wellness and aesthetics into her business so that others affected by cancer could still feel healthy and beautiful. She died in 1998.
Formed in the 1960s to further the aims of the local, state and national party, the Democratic Women of Westport gives this annual award to a worthy female student with an interest in, and desire to study or be involved in the political process.
Maggie Mudd and Fulvio Dobrich moved to Westport in 1994, the year they were married. Their three children were educated in Westport’s public schools. By establishing this award, the family supports the academic ambitions of students interested in becoming responsible global citizens.
Doug Donovan, Staples Class of 1979, was a talented student and Staples soccer player who went on to excel at Lehigh University. He was just beginning his career as a civil engineer when he died in an automobile accident. At the time of his death, he was working on plans for what later became Wakeman Park. After the passing of Doug’s parents, Mollie and Jack, the Donovan family requested that contributions made in their memory go to this STG award.
Rachel was an original. Her simple beauty, graceful leadership and creative intelligence were only part of her story. She was a wise, kind, old soul with incredible drive and diverse interests. Her talents reached far beyond the classroom; she was an incredible seamstress, artist, and cook. She created “Rachel’s Rags” pajama bottoms and cooked amazing meals and desserts for family and friends. She cherished the simple things in life: sitting on the beach, reading a good book, listening to music. Rachel was a strong, independent thinker, and when she set a goal, she attained it. She could do it all: she excelled at costume design for Staples Players, served as secretary for the National Honor Society, treasurer for the China Care Club and was a member of Kool 2B Kind. Above all, Rachel was thoughtful and compassionate and her bright smile and signature giggle lit up the room. Rachel had a passion for fashion and was able to pursue and discover many talents and interests during her time at Staples. She attended Cornell University where she was accepted into the Fiber Science and Apparel Design Program (FSAD) and pursued a major in fashion design management with a minor in business.