Mayors for the Day

Waterbury Mayors for a Day

African-American

2025: Irene Saunders
- Irene Saunders was honored as the African American Mayor for the Day in Waterbury on February 19, 2025. The ceremony recognized her contributions to the community, though further biographical details are not provided in the available sources.
2024: Sean M. Mosley
- Alderman Sean M. Mosley was celebrated as the 2024 Waterbury African American Mayor for the Day. He is recognized as a trusted community leader, particularly noted for his work with children and dedication to the Waterbury community. Mosley is also an attorney.
2023 Pastor Kristopher S. Reese
2020 Jade Gopie
2018: Shirley J. Norman
- Shirley J. Norman was presented as the 2018 African American Mayor for the Day. She was selected by the 2018 African-American Mayor For A Day Committee, though additional details about her background are not specified in the source.
2017 Hubie Williamson
2016 Johanna Hayes
2015 Attorney Adrienne Dean Parkmond
2011 James H. Gatling
2013 Greg Hadley
- Waterbury Alderman, director of the WOW/NRZ Community Learning Center, and longtime community advocate.
2009 Darius F. Butler
2002 Larry Butler
- Selected as the “2002 Black Mayor for a Day” by the Afro-American Black Mayor for a Day Committee. Butler is a longtime civic leader and state representative

Albanian-American

2024: Agim Ismaili
2023: Sali Barolli
- Recognized on November 24, 2023. President of the Albanian Culture Center, restaurateur, and community leader6.2021: Memet Abazi

2021 Memet Abazi
2019: David Edward Therault
2016: Kenneth Bushka
- Honored in late November 2016 for his contributions to the Albanian and greater Waterbury community.
2013: Ismail Vinca
- Born in Veleshta, Macedonia; recognized for his leadership and community involvement.

Brazillian-American

2014 Talline Carvalho

Cape Verdean - American

2024: Jose David Almeida
- Jose David Almeida, originally from Cape Verde, was honored in 2024. He is known for his leadership in the Cape Verdean community and his long career at Pratt & Whitney. The celebration included a flag-raising at City Hall and festivities at the Cape Verdean Social Club.
- Honored on October 30, 2024, at City Hall with a Cape Verde flag-raising ceremony. Born in Cape Verde in 1946, Almeida immigrated to Connecticut at age 15, worked for 35 years at Pratt & Whitney, and is a longtime member of the Cape Verdean Social Club of Waterbury
2023 María Luisa Almeida
- Recognized in October 2023. Arrived in Waterbury in 1958 and has been a prominent member of the Cape Verdean community
2017: Carlos de Sousa
xxxx: Gamaliel Talho

Dominican - American

2025 – Tomas Olivo-Valentín
- Community Leadership: Tomas Olivo-Valentín is the Program Director at RIBA ASPIRA Career Academy, a key initiative focused on improving economic and educational opportunities for Waterbury's South End residents, particularly the Hispanic and BIPOC communities2 1618.
- Advocacy: He has played a significant role in programs that provide English as a Second Language and vocational training, helping underemployed and unemployed residents access healthcare careers and other pathways to financial stability2.
- Recognition: Honored as Dominican Mayor for the Day in 2025 for his dedication to community empowerment and equity116.
2024 – Juana Lopez
- Dedication to Youth: Juana Lopez has been recognized for her years of service and dedication to children in the Waterbury community, making a significant impact through her work with youth and families1015.
- Community Service: Honored as Dominican Mayor for the Day in 2024 for her steadfast commitment to uplifting and supporting the next generation.
2022 – Paula Isabel Martinez
- Community Engagement: Paula Isabel Martinez was named Dominican Mayor for the Day in 2022. While specific details about her career and achievements are limited in public sources, her selection reflects her active role and leadership within the Dominican and broader Waterbury communities6.
2020 – Sergeant José Mundo Diaz
- Public Safety: Sergeant José Mundo Diaz was born in Brooklyn, NY, to parents from the Dominican Republic. He has served as a police officer in Waterbury, where he is recognized for his commitment to public safety and community relations9.
- Role Model: Honored as Dominican Mayor for the Day in 2020, he is seen as a role model for Dominican youth and a bridge between law enforcement and the community.
2018 – Armondo J. Vargas, Esq.
- Legal Profession: Attorney Armondo J. Vargas is a practicing lawyer who has served the Waterbury area, representing clients and advocating for justice6.
- Community Recognition: Named Dominican Mayor for the Day in 2018, in recognition of his professional achievements and contributions to the Dominican community.
2017 – Karime Pimentel
- Community Organizer: Karime Pimentel has been active in community organizing and advocacy, including work with the Naugatuck Valley Project and maternal health initiatives focused on improving outcomes for women of color in Waterbury7 8 1314.
- Leadership: Honored as Dominican Mayor for the Day in 2017, Pimentel is celebrated for her leadership in social justice and community health.
2016 Maria Taveras
- Bilingual teacher at Hopeville Elementary and co-owner of Via Al Paraiso Restaurant
2013 – Dr. Daisy Cocco De Filippis
- Academic Leadership: Dr. Daisy Cocco De Filippis served as President of Naugatuck Valley Community College from 2008 to 2020, where she was known for expanding educational access, fostering student success, and leading major campus improvements4 5 1217.
- Literary and Cultural Advocate: A scholar of Dominican and Latin American literature, she is recognized internationally for her work on Dominican women’s studies and has received numerous honors, including induction into Connecticut’s Immigrant Heritage Hall of Fame.
- Recognition: Named Dominican Mayor for the Day in 2013, celebrating her transformative impact on education and the Dominican community in Waterbury.

Ecuadorian - American

2015 Yliana Miller
- Honored as Ecuadorian Mayor for the Day in 2015.
- Recognized for her leadership and contributions to the Ecuadorian-American community in Waterbury.

Filipino - American

2019 – Ronado Javier
- Community Leadership: Ronado Javier was honored as Filipino Mayor for the Day in 2019. He is recognized for his active involvement in the Filipino-American community of Waterbury and for supporting cultural, religious, and community-building events.
- Cultural Contributions: Javier’s recognition highlights the growing influence and participation of Filipino Americans in the civic and cultural life of Waterbury12.
2020 – Jade Golpe
- Community Service: Jade Golpe was named Filipino Mayor for the Day in 2020. Golpe is celebrated for her commitment to the Filipino community, her role in organizing cultural activities, and her dedication to fostering unity and representation for Filipino Americans in the city2.
- Leadership: Her recognition reflects the ongoing contributions of Filipino Americans to Waterbury’s diverse social fabric.

French-American and French-Canadian-American

1979 – Flore Pelletier
- Community Involvement: Flore Pelletier was among the earliest honorees, reflecting the longstanding presence and contributions of French-Canadian Americans in Waterbury. She was recognized for her dedication to preserving French heritage and culture in the city.
1986 – Cecile Frechette
- Heritage: Cecile Frechette was honored for her active role in the French-Canadian community, supporting cultural events and fostering connections among French-speaking residents.
1989 – Olivette Provancher
- Cultural Leadership: Olivette Provancher was recognized for her efforts in maintaining French-Canadian traditions and supporting community initiatives that celebrate French heritage in Waterbury.
1990 – Marie Cherubini
- Community Service: Marie Cherubini was honored for her service and leadership within the French-Canadian community, helping to organize cultural and social events.
1991 – Rose Deshaies
- Family and Community: Rose Deshaies was celebrated for her contributions as a matriarch within a prominent French-Canadian family in Waterbury, and for her involvement in community activities.
1997 – Rita Frigon
- Cultural Advocacy: Rita Frigon was recognized for her advocacy and dedication to the French-Canadian community, helping to preserve language and traditions for future generations.
2000 – Sylvia Perreault
- Community Engagement: Sylvia Perreault was honored for her active engagement in Waterbury’s French-Canadian organizations and her commitment to cultural preservation.
2001 – Lilian Foley
- Leadership: Lilian Foley was celebrated for her leadership and service within the French-Canadian community, supporting both cultural and charitable initiatives.
2006 – Theresa Nardozzi
- Cultural Support: Theresa Nardozzi was recognized for her ongoing support of French-Canadian heritage events and her involvement in local organizations.
2007 – Jeannine Laliberte
- Community Dedication: Jeannine Laliberte was honored for her dedication to the French-Canadian community, helping to organize and promote cultural activities in Waterbury.
2010 – Jeanne R. LaPrade
- Civic Engagement: Jeanne R. LaPrade was recognized for her civic engagement and her role in promoting French-Canadian culture and values in the city.
2012 – Lorraine Johnston
- Heritage Promotion: Lorraine Johnston was celebrated for her efforts in promoting French-Canadian heritage and fostering community spirit among Waterbury’s French-speaking residents.
2014 – Andre "Andy" Normandin
- Named Franco American Mayor for the Day; longtime community member and Timex Corp. retiree.
2018 – Lorraine Johnston
- Life-long Waterbury resident, honored again for her contributions to French-Canadian heritage.

2019 – Yolan Magnifique Bosman (b. Waterbury)
- Local Roots: Born in Waterbury, Yolan Magnifique Bosman was honored for her contributions to the local French and French-Canadian community, reflecting the ongoing presence and influence of French heritage in the city.
2022 – Joan Hartley
- Political Leadership: State Senator Joan Hartley was honored as French-Canadian Mayor for the Day in 2022, recognizing her family’s French-Canadian heritage and her long service to the Waterbury community as a public official.
2024 – Francine Nido
- Community Service: Francine Nido was recognized in 2024 for her dedication to the French-Canadian community, her involvement in local cultural events, and her efforts to keep French traditions alive in Waterbury.

Greek - American

2010 – Dimitri K. Koutoupis
- Details: Honored as Greek Mayor for the Day in 2010. While specific biographical details are not readily available, Dimitri K. Koutoupis is recognized for his contributions to Waterbury’s Greek community and his role in local Greek cultural and civic events.
2013 – Mary Ricciardi
- Community Leadership: Mary Ricciardi was named Greek Mayor for the Day in 2013. She is celebrated for her active involvement in the Greek-American community of Waterbury and for her contributions to local organizations and events that promote Greek heritage31.
2014 – Constantine “Gus” Koulouris
- Civic Engagement: Gus Koulouris was honored as Greek Mayor for the Day in 2014 during Greek Independence Day celebrations. He is recognized for his longstanding dedication to the Greek community, including participation in ceremonies such as the Greek flag-raising at City Hall24.
2016 – Peter Scarbadonis
- Community Service: Named Greek Mayor for the Day in 2016, Peter Scarbadonis is known for his commitment to the Greek Orthodox community and for supporting cultural and religious activities in Waterbury1.
2022 – Brian Papmihalakis Peterson
- Recognition: Brian Papmihalakis Peterson was honored as Greek Mayor for the Day in 2022. He is acknowledged for his involvement in the Greek-American community and his efforts in promoting Greek culture and heritage in Waterbury1.
2024 – Nico Ververis
- Community Dedication: Nico Ververis was celebrated as Greek Mayor for the Day in 2024. He is recognized for his significant contributions to the local Greek community, particularly through his involvement with Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church and various community initiatives.
- Named Greek Mayor for the Day during the Greek Independence Day celebration at Waterbury City Hall in March 2014. He was recognized for his leadership and longstanding involvement in the Greek-American community, with the event featuring traditional Greek music, dance, and a flag-raising ceremony.
2025 – Alex James Velezis
- Recognition: Alex James Velezis is the Greek Mayor for the Day in 2025. While further details are not currently available, his selection reflects ongoing leadership and service within Waterbury’s Greek-American community.
- Honored as Waterbury Greek Mayor for the Day on March 26, 2025. Alex Velezis has served as a constable for the City of Waterbury and is recognized for his ongoing support of the annual Greek Independence Day celebrations and his contributions to the local Greek-American community.

Irish - American

1996 – Cornelius J. "Connie" Collins
- Background: Born in Lahern, County Cork, Ireland, Connie Collins immigrated to the U.S., first settling in Bridgeport before making Waterbury his home for over 53 years.
- Career: Owner of Collins Electric Company.
- Community Leadership: Deeply active in the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH), he served as president of the local Msgr. Slocum Division #1 for over 21 years and held leadership roles at the county, state, and national levels, including Past National Vice-President and National Life Member. He was instrumental in acquiring and constructing the current AOH club building.
- Cultural Impact: For 46 years, with his late wife Katherine, he hosted “The Voice of Ireland,” an annual St. Patrick’s radio broadcast. The AOH hall was named "Collins Hall" in his honor. He was also named "Hibernian of the Year" in 20071 2 34.
2003 – John J. "Jack" McCarthy
- Recognition: Honored as Irish Mayor for the Day in 2003. Known for his involvement in Irish-American community activities and support of local Irish organizations2.
- 2006 – George W. Kearney
- Recognition: Named Irish Mayor for the Day in 2006. Celebrated for his dedication to the Irish community and participation in cultural events2.
2009 – William McCarthy
- Recognition: Honored in 2009 for his contributions to Waterbury’s Irish-American community, including involvement in local Irish organizations and events2.
2013 – Patrick "Bob" O'Rourke
- Recognition: Named Irish Mayor for the Day in 2013, recognized for his ongoing support of Irish culture and community life in Waterbury2.
2016 – Eileen Byrne
- Recognition: Honored in 2016 for her leadership and commitment to Irish heritage and community service in Waterbury2.
2019 – Craig Sullivan
- Recognition: Named Irish Mayor for the Day in 2019, reflecting his contributions to the Irish-American community and cultural preservation2.
2021 – David T. Carmody
- Recognition: Honored in 2021 for his active role in the Irish community and support of Irish cultural and social initiatives2.
2022 – Roland T. "Skip" Hamel, Jr.
- Recognition: Named Irish Mayor for the Day in 2022, celebrated for his dedication to Irish traditions and community engagement2.
2024 – Jack Alseph
- Recognition: Honored in 2024 for his service and leadership within the Irish-American community of Waterbury2.
2025 – Grey & Nicole Kendall
- Recognition: Nicole Kendall, along with Grey Kendall, was celebrated as Waterbury's honorary Irish Mayor for the Day in 2025, reflecting the city's tradition of honoring leaders from its Irish community. Nicole Kendall’s selection highlights her contributions to Irish cultural life and community events2.
- Honored on March 17, 2025, Nicole Kendall is president of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians (LAOH) and recognized for her leadership, community service, and dedication to preserving Irish heritage in Waterbury

Italian - American

2000 – Rosario "Sarino" Costa
- Legacy: A beloved figure in Waterbury’s Italian-American community, Sarino Costa was best known as the 21-year host of the radio show Carosello Italiano, which celebrated Italian music and heritage.
- Community Involvement: He served as President of the Lega Siciliana Social Club for many years, was a member of Sons of Italy and UNICO National, and was widely recognized for his efforts to preserve and promote Italian culture in the city.
- Recognition: Honored as Mayor for the Day on Columbus Day 2000 and remembered as a pillar of the local Italian-American community19.
2001 – Honorable Judge Richard M. Marano
- Professional Achievements: Judge Marano was a respected Superior Court judge, attorney, and author, known for his service in the Danbury Judicial District and his long legal career in Waterbury.
- Community Leadership: He was past president of the Waterbury Chapter of UNICO National, the Leonardo da Vinci Lodge (Sons of Italy), and the Connecticut Italian American Bar Association. He co-authored the book Growing Up Italian and American in Waterbury and was deeply involved in civic, youth, and church activities.
- Honors: Recipient of the Award of Merit from the Republic of Italy, and the St. Joseph Medal of Appreciation from the Archdiocese of Hartford. Named Waterbury’s Italian Mayor for the Day in 20012.
2006 – Carl W. Rosa
- Civic Leadership: A lifelong Waterbury resident, Carl Rosa became the first Executive Director of Main Street Waterbury in 2004, playing a pivotal role in downtown revitalization.
- Community Focus: Rosa’s work has centered on fostering collaboration among local businesses, property owners, and civic groups to strengthen Waterbury’s urban core3.
???? – Anthony "Tony" Renzullo
- Entrepreneurship: Tony Renzullo is a lifelong resident and proprietor of Carbone's Market, a staple in the community.
- Recognition: Celebrated as Italian Mayor for the Day in Torrington in 2016, and recognized for his longstanding contributions to Italian-American culture and business in the region4.
2011 – Colonel John G. Chiarella
- Military Distinction: A decorated U.S. Army veteran, Chiarella served in Korea and Vietnam, attained the rank of full colonel, and was inducted into the U.S. Army Artillery Hall of Fame.
- Veterans’ Advocacy: Chairman of the Waterbury Veterans Memorial Committee, trustee of the Connecticut Department of Veterans’ Affairs, and an active member of several veterans’ organizations.
- Community Service: Eucharistic Minister at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, and educator on patriotic customs for Waterbury students. Honored as Mayor for the Day in 20115 7 10 1112.
2011 – David G. Devino Sr.
- Details: Recognized as Italian Mayor for the Day in 2011; further biographical information not provided in available sources.
2013 – John A. Lombardo
- Details: Honored as Italian Mayor for the Day in 2013; further biographical information not provided in available sources.
2014 – Father Frederick Aniello
- Clergy: A respected Catholic priest, Father Aniello has served the Waterbury community and its Italian-American faithful for many years.
2015 – Semina DeLaurentis
- Arts Leadership: Semina DeLaurentis is a noted figure in the arts, particularly as the longtime Artistic Director of Seven Angels Theatre in Waterbury, recognized for her contributions to local culture and the performing arts.
2016 – John Sarlo
- Details: Honored as Italian Mayor for the Day in 2016; further biographical information not provided in available sources.
2019 – Craig Sullivan
- Recognized for his lifelong ties to Waterbury, his Irish heritage, and his leadership in the community. Sullivan was raised on the city’s East Side and is a Holy Cross High School graduate
2021 – William "Billy" Summa
- Details: Honored as Italian Mayor for the Day in 2021; further biographical information not provided in available sources.
2022 – The 3rd and 4th Generations of the Maiorano Family
- Family Legacy: The Maiorano family, spanning multiple generations, has been recognized for their longstanding contributions to Waterbury’s Italian-American community, including business, civic, and charitable endeavors.
2023 – Arthur J. Denze
- One of Waterbury's Top 3 Ignominious People
- Only person to ever have been censured by the City's Board of Aldermen
- Repute: Known as one of Waterbury’s most controversial and gladflidious public figures.
2024 – Robert F. Gerace
- Details: Honored as Italian Mayor for the Day in 2024; further biographical information not provided in available sources.

Jamaican - American

2015 Terrence Saunders
- Terrence Saunders was honored as the first Jamaican Mayor for the Day in Waterbury in 2015. He was well known in the community for his love of cooking, riding his motorcycle, and his active involvement in local organizations

Lebanese - American

2024 – Dr. Marc N. Raad (Additional Honoree)
- Medical & Community Leadership: Dr. Marc N. Raad was celebrated as Lebanese Mayor for the Day in November 2024. He was recognized for his professional achievements in medicine and his dedication to the Lebanese community, as well as his contributions to civic life in Waterbury.
2022 – Mr. & Mrs. Fascia
- Recognition: Honored as Lebanese Mayors for the Day in 2022. While specific biographical details are not publicly available, the recognition reflects their contributions to Waterbury’s Lebanese community, likely through faith, family, and civic involvement.
- Selim Noujaim (Year Unspecified)
- Community Leadership: Selim Noujaim is a prominent business and civic leader in Waterbury, serving as a long-time State Representative and President of the Maassir Lebanese-American Charitable Society.
- Civic Impact: He has chaired numerous boards, including Seven Angels Theater and Saints Peter and Paul Church Parish Council, and has been honored with multiple awards for community service, business leadership, and humanitarian work.
- Lebanese Heritage: Noujaim has been named Waterbury’s Lebanese Mayor for the Day and is often Master of Ceremonies for Lebanese community events, reflecting his deep commitment to preserving Lebanese culture and supporting charitable causes in the city4.
2013 – Camile Atallah
- Background: Born in Beirut in 1961, Atallah earned a scholarship to study pre-medicine in Italy but returned to Lebanon to support his family during the civil war. He is credited with saving a Muslim family during the conflict.
- Immigration & Faith: In 1987, he escaped Lebanon disguised as a Franciscan monk and eventually settled in Waterbury, joining his brothers. He is a devout Christian and active member of Our Lady of Lebanon Church, where he was ordained Subdeacon in 201123.
- Community Recognition: Atallah’s Lebanese Mayor for the Day ceremony in 2013 was attended by dignitaries, including the Consul General of Lebanon and State Representative Selim Noujaim. He was honored for his devotion to faith, family, and community35.
2011 – Naheel Haddad
- Recognition: Honored as Lebanese Mayor for the Day in 2011. While specific details are limited, Haddad is recognized for her involvement and service within Waterbury’s Lebanese and Maronite Catholic communities.
- 2010 – Joseph P. Jarjura
- Community Service: Joseph P. Jarjura was honored in 2010 for his longstanding contributions to Waterbury’s Lebanese community, as well as his support of civic and religious activities. The Jarjura family is well known in Waterbury for public service and leadership.
1991 – Francis R. "Frank" Whibey
- Recognition: Honored as Lebanese Mayor for the Day in 1991. Frank Whibey is remembered for his active participation in Lebanese community life and his commitment to cultural and civic engagement in Waterbury.
1989 – Joseph P. Jarjura
Honored by the Lebanese community of Waterbury as Mayor for a Day in 1989 for his leadership and service to the community

Lithuanian - American

2023 – Joseph (Juozas K.) Karmuza
- Background: Born in April 1938, Joseph Karmuza (Juozas K.) is a lifelong member of Waterbury’s Lithuanian community.
- Recognition: Honored as Lithuanian Mayor for the Day in 2023, he was celebrated for his dedication to preserving Lithuanian heritage in the city. The Lithuanian flag was raised at Waterbury City Hall in his honor268.
2022 – Eleanor Barkauskas
- Community Service: A devoted and long-time member of the Knights of Lithuania Council 7, Eleanor Barkauskas was recognized for her tireless work supporting Lithuanian culture and community events in Waterbury.
- Event: Honored as Lithuanian Mayor for the Day in 2022, with a flag-raising ceremony at City Hall1 78.
2021 – (No publicly available information)
- Note: No honoree or details available for this year in the provided sources.
2020 – Ed Paige
- Career: A retired social studies teacher from Naugatuck, Ed Paige is known for his commitment to education and community.
- Faith & Service: Lifelong Waterbury resident and devoted parishioner of Saint Joseph Parish, reflecting his deep ties to both the city and its Lithuanian Catholic heritage8.
2019 – Richard “Ritchie” Litinskas
- Legacy: Remembered as a beloved member of the Lithuanian community, Richard “Ritchie” Litinskas was posthumously honored as Lithuanian Mayor for the Day in 2019, having passed away in January of that year8.
2018 – Sarune Macys
- Background: Born in Lithuania, Sarune Macys immigrated to the United States in 1952.
- Cultural Role: She is noted for wearing traditional Lithuanian costume and performing Lithuanian songs, helping keep the culture alive for new generations58.
2017 – Al Jarus
- Life & Legacy: Born in 1917, Al Jarus was a musician who played in a band at the 1939 World’s Fair, highlighting a rich personal and cultural history.
- Recognition: Honored as Lithuanian Mayor for the Day in 2017 and previously in 1992, reflecting his long-standing contributions to the community8.
2016 – Linas Venclauskas
- Public Service: Lieutenant in the Torrington Police Department and active in the Lithuanian community, including serving as Financial Secretary of the Knights of Lithuania Council 718.
2015 Edward J. Bebrin
- Recognition: Honored as Lithuanian Mayor for the Day in 2013; further details not specified in available sources8.
2012 Balsys
- Recognition: Honored as Lithuanian Mayor for the Day in 2011; further details not specified in available sources8.
2011 – Ann M. Drigotas
Honored as Lithuanian Mayor for the Day in 2011. Ann Drigotas was recognized for her lifelong commitment to Waterbury’s Lithuanian community, her involvement with St. Joseph’s Church, and her dedication to preserving Lithuanian heritage and culture in the city.
2010 Janina B. Nawarskas
- Recognition: Honored as Lithuanian Mayor for the Day in 2008; further details not specified in available sources8.
1992 – Al Jarus
- Background: See 2017 entry for details on Al Jarus’s life and contributions8.

Peruvian - American

2024 – Martha Pezo-Marin
- Martha Pezo-Marin was again recognized at the Peruvian Mayor for a Day ceremony in early 2024 by Mayor Neil O'Leary's representative, Paul Pernerewski
2023 – Martha Pezo-Marín
- Martha Pezo-Marín was recognized as Peruvian Mayor for the Day on August 4, 2023. She immigrated from Perú to the United States and was honored for her contributions to the Peruvian-American community in Waterbury.
2022: Rafael Herrera

Portuguese - American

2018 – Carlos Pacheco
- Honored as Portuguese Mayor for the Day in 2018. Carlos Pacheco is recognized for his active involvement in the Portuguese community and his efforts to promote Portuguese culture and heritage in Waterbury.
2019 – Maria Silva
- Named Portuguese Mayor for the Day in 2019. Maria Silva has been a prominent figure in community events and cultural celebrations representing the Portuguese-American population.
2023 – Antonio Fernandes
- Celebrated as Portuguese Mayor for the Day in 2023. Antonio Fernandes is known for his leadership in local Portuguese organizations and dedication to cultural preservation.

Puerto Rican - American

2012 – Miriam Echevarria
- Recognition: Honored as Puerto Rican Mayor for the Day in 2012 for her contributions to the Puerto Rican community in Waterbury and for her commitment to civic engagement and cultural preservation15.
2013 – Isaias T. Diaz, Esq.
- Legal Leadership: Attorney Isaias T. Diaz is a lifelong Waterbury resident and a passionate advocate for justice and the Latino community. He has served as Chairman of the Connecticut Latino and Puerto Rican Affairs Commission, working on legislation to address health, discrimination, education, and public safety issues affecting Latinos.
- Community Involvement: Diaz is active in his church as a minister and has been recognized for his dedication to public service, legal excellence, and community empowerment21.
2014 – Maritza Acosta-Gay
- Social Services & Advocacy: Maritza Acosta-Gay was honored as Puerto Rican Mayor for the Day in 2014. She is known for her work with the Department of Children and Families and her advocacy for children and families in Waterbury.
- Cultural Leadership: Acosta-Gay has also served as "Madrina" (godmother) for the Waterbury Puerto Rican Parade, reflecting her leadership and commitment to cultural celebration31.
2015 – David Burgos
- Recognition: Named Puerto Rican Mayor for the Day in 2015, David Burgos is celebrated for his service and leadership within the Puerto Rican community of Waterbury, fostering civic participation and cultural pride1.
2016 – Adela Jorge-Nelson
- Educational Leadership: Born in Brooklyn, NY, and raised in Ponce, PR, Adela Jorge-Nelson moved to Waterbury at age 10. She excelled as a bilingual student in Waterbury Public Schools and later became a bilingual educator.
- Professional Achievements: Jorge-Nelson has served as vice principal of Bucks Hill Elementary School and Supervisor of Bilingual/ESOL Education for Waterbury Public Schools. She is recognized for creating supportive learning environments and advancing bilingual education in the city41.
2017 - Pedro Velez
2018 - Yoellie Iglasias
2019 – Jose Antonio Reyes
- Community Recognition: Honored as Puerto Rican Mayor for the Day in 2019, Jose Antonio Reyes is recognized for his contributions to the Puerto Rican community in Waterbury and his commitment to civic and cultural engagement1.
2020 George Tirado, Sr. (posthumously)
2021 - Doctor Bianca Rivera
2022 – Nancy Acevedo-Gordils
- Recognition: Named Puerto Rican Mayor for the Day in 2022, Nancy Acevedo-Gordils is celebrated for her leadership and service to the Puerto Rican community, promoting cultural heritage and community involvement in Waterbury1.
2023 – Christopher Ortiz
- Honored on July 21, 2023. Founder and owner of CO Sports Academy, Waterbury native, and former NFL wide receiver for the New England Patriots, Kansas City Chiefs, and New York Giants
2024 - Jacqueline Matos
- Honored on September 13, 2024. Born in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, Matos is a retired bilingual educator who served Waterbury schools for 31 years. She was recognized for her decades of service to the city’s children and for her leadership in the Puerto Rican community

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