Mary DeFeudis to receive Harvey Ball Smile Award
July 1, 2009
WORCESTER- Sharks Charities Chairwoman and Worcester-native, Mary DeFeudis, will receive the Ninth Annual Harvey Ball Smile Award presented on September 25 by the Worcester Historical Museum for her outstanding community efforts throughout Worcester and her ability to render so many people to “smile”.
The award ceremony will take place at 6 p.m. on September 25, 2009 at the Worcester Country Club.
“Mary works tirelessly to support the Worcester Sharks and our efforts,” commented Sharks President and CEO Michael T. Lehr. “Our work in the community would not be as effective without her and for that our organization sincerely thanks her. Mary’s service endeavors are unparalleled.”
Ms. DeFeudis aids Worcester Sharks Charities in partnering with local organizations to enhance the lives of residents throughout Central Massachusetts and to invigorate the city of Worcester. She has helped the organization collaborate with the Special Olympics of Massachusetts, American Heart Association, Y.O.U. Inc., YouthNet, Boys & Girls Clubs, Why Me and many other institutions to help raise awareness and funds.
In addition to her service with the Worcester Sharks, Ms. DeFeudis contributes to countless other organizations. She serves on the Board of Directors of UMASS Memorial Foundation and the Worcester Chapter of the American Red Cross. She sits on the Board of Trustees of Nichols College where she has started an annual Mary DeFeudis Scholarship, awarded each year to an outstanding student. In addition, she is an investor and Director of the Hanover Theater for the Performing Arts. She also is involved with St. Jude's Children's Hospital, along with other healthcare organizations.
“Her experience in service has allowed the Sharks to not only learn from her, but also expand our presence in the community,” said Worcester Sharks Director of Community Relations and Youth Hockey Michael Myers.
Last season alone, the Worcester Sharks raised over $100,000 for local charities through Sharks Charities.
The award commemorates Harvey Ball, a Worcester-native, who established the world-renown “Smiley Face” design, originally created to raise spirits at the insurance company where he worked. Past recipients of the Harvey Ball Smile Award include: Allen W. Fletcher, Denis Leary, Leslie Courtney, John W. Spillane, Charles F. Monahan, Jr., Richard B. Kennedy, Lt. Governor Timothy P. Murray, and Jane Petrella.
The Worcester Historical Museum is devoted to local history, including a research library, Civil War correspondence, and articles from the city’s past industrial era, to name a few.
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