The Lessler Citizenship Award, established two years ago following Bob Lessler’s 24 years on the Board of Selectmen and four years on the Board of Finance, seeks to recognize individuals whose contributions have significantly improved the Easton community.
The award was created to provide a townwide recognition for residents and contributors whose work extends beyond individual organizations and benefits the broader community.
A committee consisting of John Cunningham, Wendy Bowditch, Maureen Williams and Jim Riling oversees the nomination and selection process. The group is joined this year by 2024 recipient Adrienne Burke and 2025 recipients Phyllis and John Machledt.
The award honors an individual who demonstrates outstanding public service through sustained contributions, a commitment to bipartisan or nonpartisan collaboration, and efforts that enhance the well-being of the community. Nominees must have played a key role in an accomplishment of clear and lasting public benefit, with an impact that reaches a broad segment of the town and fosters a sense of community. Candidates do not need to be Easton residents or government officials but must have strong ties to the town. Current state or local elected officials serving on major boards or commissions, as well as declared candidates for such offices, are not eligible.
The award is presented annually on the Saturday before Thanksgiving at 2 p.m. in the Easton Public Library Community Room. The recipient receives a personalized plaque, is added to a permanent display at Town Hall, and is invited to join the award committee. The winner is typically announced in late summer, and the ceremony is open to the public.
Nominations are open to the public and will be accepted through Sept. 1. Submissions should include the nominee’s name, address and contact information, along with the nominator’s contact details and a brief explanation of the candidate’s qualifications.
Nominations may be submitted to Bob Lessler at rlessler56@gmail.com or to any member of the award committee.
