Leadership Greater Hartford Announces 2026 Polaris Awards Honorees
Celebrating the Guiding Lights of Greater Hartford
Hartford, CT – Leadership Greater Hartford (LGH) is proud to announce the honorees for the 2026 Polaris Awards, the organization’s signature annual event recognizing exceptional leaders, organizations, and changemakers who are making a lasting impact across the Greater Hartford region.
Each year, the Polaris Awards bring together hundreds of professionals, community members, and civic leaders to celebrate those who embody LGH’s core values of Leadership, Community, and Connections. As LGH’s largest annual fundraising event, Polaris supports the organization’s mission to develop, connect, and inspire diverse leaders committed to strengthening the region.
2026 Polaris Award Honorees
LGH is honored to recognize the following individuals and organization for their outstanding contributions:
Leadership Award
Jim Barrett, Homeless Outreach Officer, Hartford Police Department
Recognized for his compassionate, on-the-ground leadership and unwavering commitment to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness in Hartford.
Community Award
Miguel Delvalle, Founder & Executive Director, Scissor Society Inc.
Honored for building a powerful, community-centered model that blends entrepreneurship, mentorship, and cultural connection, transforming lives through opportunity and empowerment.
Connections Award
Seniors Job Bank
Celebrated for its critical role in connecting adults age 50 and older with meaningful employment and volunteer opportunities, strengthening both individual well-being and the regional economy.
“Polaris is more than an awards event, it’s a celebration of the people and organizations who are shaping the future of Greater Hartford, ” said Larisa Kottke, President & CEO of Leadership Greater Hartford. “This year’s honorees exemplify the power of leadership in action and the impact we can achieve when we invest in our communities and in one another. ”
Event Experience
The 2026 Polaris Awards will bring together a diverse network of leaders from across sectors for an inspiring evening featuring:
A vibrant networking reception
A dynamic awards ceremony
Meaningful opportunities to connect with leaders across Greater Hartford
In addition to celebrating this year’s honorees, the event raises vital funds to support LGH’s leadership development programs, which empower individuals at all stages of their careers and strengthen the region’s civic and professional landscape.
Tickets & Sponsorship Opportunities
Tickets for the 2026 Polaris Awards are now available, with individual tickets starting at $150. Bring 5 Friends & Save - $750.00 ($125 pp)
Sponsorship opportunities are also open for organizations looking to align their brand with one of Greater Hartford’s most impactful leadership events.
For more information, to purchase tickets, or to explore sponsorship opportunities, visit: https://onecau.se/polaris26
Leadership Greater Hartford (LGH) is a mission-driven, nonprofit organization that supports and strengthens the local community by training and connecting aspiring and established leaders.
For more information about how to be a participant or sponsor, or to inquire about customized training with Leadership Greater Hartford:
860-951-6161
info@leadershipgh.org
www.leadershipgh.org