The people who help residents find housing, navigate the school system, connect with addiction recovery services or access community resources rarely make headlines. But on June 11, five of those often-unseen public servants are being recognized for the difference they make in the lives of Worcester-area residents every day.
The Worcester Regional Research Bureau announced the recipients of the 2026 Thomas S. Green Public Service Awards, an annual recognition honoring individuals whose work exemplifies dedication, professionalism and service to the community.
This year’s honorees are Christina Connolly of the Worcester Public Library, Emily Glaubitz of the Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Commission, Richard Gonzalez of Worcester Health & Human Services, Kelsey Lamoureux of Worcester Public Schools and Sue Obiero of Worcester Public Schools.
Since 1988, the awards have celebrated public employees whose contributions often take place outside the spotlight but have a lasting impact on residents and communities throughout the region. The award is named for Thomas S. Green, a founder and original director of the Research Bureau and a longtime civic leader in Worcester.
Among this year’s recipients is Connolly, the Worcester Public Library’s community resource manager, who has spent more than 25 years working in urban libraries. According to the announcement, she helped establish the library’s Community Resources Department, connecting residents with housing assistance, food resources, healthcare services, employment opportunities and other forms of support…