Named Awards

Patty and Charlie Haberstroh have spent a combined 40+ years in service to the Westport community through involvements with town government through elected and voluntary positions, work with the Human Services Department, running back-to-school programs, holiday giving programs and “service-above-self” via the Sunrise Rotary. Additionally, they founded the Staples Basketball Parents Association when their four children were going through Staples. Why do all this? Says Patty: “This town gave so much to our family, we felt it was right to give back.” One of Patty’s absolute favorite nights of the year is the STG Awards night and seeing the people and families she has worked with and for.

Jodi and Patrick Harris are the product of the public education system in New York and California. They are grateful for the opportunities the Westport Public Schools have afforded their daughters and are passionate about giving back, serving the Westport community, and helping students realize their full potential.

Preston Hirten was a key member of the Staples soccer team that was a finalist in the 2006 state championship. A fierce competitor on the field, and a gentle spirit and friend to all, he spent part of 2009 working on soccer and educational projects with young players in Ghana. Preston was entering his junior year at the University of Mary Washington when he died suddenly of a rare heart condition in August 2009. The #15 STG Award was established by family and friends to honor the number on Preston’s SHS jersey which he wore so proudly.

John and Katie Hogan (John W. Hogan Jr. and Catherine M. Hogan, nee Menadier) raised their four children in New Haven but spent most weekends, since 2005, in Westport with two of their seven grandchildren. They loved engaging with young people to learn about their lives and interests and to encourage them to pursue their passions and education. They shared many stories of how grateful John was for the support he received to be the first in his family to attend a 4-year college, The College of the Holy Cross. John worked his way through college and UConn law school and went on to practice law in New Haven and Milford. John and Katie passed away in 2023 at 84 and 82. This award is named in their memory by the Gillman Family, Joan (nee Hogan), Ted, Allison ’23 and Zachary ’26.

Bill Horne was an avid chemistry student who is also remembered for his warm sense of humor. He was a member of the Staples Class of 1971, but he died before completing high school.

Raspati “Gek” Horrigan was a resident of Westport from 1996-2021. Her students at both Coleytown Middle School and Staples High School knew her as Mrs. Horrigan, an outgoing librarian who was always generous with her time, attention, humor, and most importantly food. As a speaker of four languages, a business school graduate, and avid Sudoku fan, Mrs. Horrigan put a high value on education and often saw the potential in others. She described the best part of her job as helping kids, especially those who seemed lonely or anxious. We hope to honor and continue Mrs. Horrigan’s legacy of compassion and learning with this award.

John and Sarah Howe were proud to see their four children graduate from Staples High School and go on to pursue their own college educations and launch their diverse careers. The Howes believe strongly in the ability of education to create opportunities for young people to follow their dreams and to grow into responsible and active citizens. The Howes are particularly interested in supporting students pursuing technical or vocational training or studying in STEM fields. Through this award they hope to assist and inspire students not only to learn, but to pursue meaningful civic engagement in their communities.

The Hurlbutt family has been associated with Westport since its founding as a town. Horace Hurlbutt’s will of 1932 established a trust that was to be expressly used for scholarships as well as other charitable endeavors.