FAIRFIELD, Conn. – The Connecticut Office of Tourism has announced that Fairfield University student-athletes have been named recipients of the CT Governor's 2018 Award for Tourism Volunteer(s) of the Year.
 
In October 2017, 157 male and female student-athletes from the Men's Lacrosse team, Men's and Women's Cross Country teams, and Men's and Women's rowing teams, volunteered at the annual Chowdafest at Sherwood Island in Westport, CT. The event works with Food Rescue US to join the fight against hunger.
 
"We challenge our student-athletes to be leaders in the community and they answer the call every time" said Director of Athletics, Paul Schlickmann. "We are honored to receive this award as this is a true indication of the effort and commitment our student-athletes have for helping others." 
 
Fairfield's student-athletes partner with a myriad of groups around the state throughout the academic year. In 2017-2018 school year, Fairfield student-athletes have produced over 4,000 hours of community service and have raised over $15,000 for local and national charities.
 
"The volunteers from Fairfield University bring much more than just an extra set of hands," said Jim Keenan, Event Director for Chowdafest. "They bring passion for the event and an infectious attitude that just permeates the event.  They show pride in their work, pride in their university, and pride in themselves. It's great seeing these student-athletes see how their efforts can change the world."
 
Student-athlete representatives from Fairfield University will be at the Connecticut Tourism Conference Annual Convention in Hartford on May 9, where they will receive their award from Governor Malloy.