For over 40 years, Mike Rubin has been a positive force in the lives of Boston students. A Tennessee native, he came to Massachusetts to attend Tufts University, where he excelled in basketball. Though he planned to attend law school, he chose teaching instead, becoming a beloved teacher, coach, and headmaster at East Boston High School. Mike led championship-winning basketball teams and later served as headmaster, earning deep respect for his leadership. He’s also been active in community organizations, sharing life lessons drawn from Boston’s complex history. Despite many awards, he remains humble, preferring to let his work speak for itself. Today, he serves as assistant director for both the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association and the Massachusetts School Administrators. Mike simply hopes to be remembered as someone who cared deeply for his students, offering support with both toughness and love. He is a true pillar of the Boston community.

Laura Howard, a dedicated and compassionate OR nurse, is being nominated for the We Built This City recognition. Throughout the COVID-19 crisis and beyond, Laura has been an unwavering source of healing and strength in our community. She courageously stepped onto the frontlines during the pandemic, providing comfort and care to patients in their most vulnerable moments. In her role as an operating room nurse, Laura demonstrates precision, calm, and strength every shift, helping patients through critical moments with skill and heart. Her impact is undeniable, and she is truly a quiet hero and builder of this city. Through her acts of care and humanity, Laura leaves a positive mark on the lives of those she serves.

Connie Lovett is a cherished school bus driver on the South Shore, with over 20 years of dedicated service. Her passion for her work is evident in every trip she makes, whether it’s for students, seniors, or children in need. Connie has built strong relationships with the community, earning the trust of parents and the admiration of students who always request her by name. She goes above and beyond, not only driving buses but also volunteering her time to help others, including transporting seniors and SNAP children to important appointments and events. During the challenging times of the pandemic, Connie selflessly returned to her role to support transit needs in Greater Boston, where she continues to excel. Her positive attitude and warm personality have made a lasting impact on the lives of thousands, from Boston Marathon runners to students traveling for competitions. Whether you know her as Connie, Mrs. Lovett, or simply as the friendly bus driver with a quick smile, one thing is clear – she truly deserves recognition for her unwavering commitment to safety, care, and service excellence.

Vanessa Depina is being nominated for her outstanding dedication and compassion as a nurse. For over 11 years, she has cared for the most vulnerable in the community with dignity and respect. Despite being a single mother and business owner, she selflessly pours love into her work and everyone she encounters. Vanessa’s unwavering commitment makes her a true beacon of hope, spreading peace and love wherever she goes. She leads by example, always putting others first. Her humility and grace in the face of challenges are truly inspiring. Vanessa is incredibly deserving of recognition for the difference she makes every day, and any award given to her would be accepted with gratitude and humility. It would be an honor for her to be celebrated for her remarkable contributions to the community.

Joanna Rapajle, an adjustment counselor at Hanover High School in Hanover, MA, is described as a wonderful, dedicated, loving, and kind individual by a former student. Her positive impact on students struggling with various issues, such as difficult home lives, school struggles, addiction, and personal challenges, is praised. Joanna provides a listening ear and valuable resources, such as poems, readings, and artwork, to support students in need. Her presence brings light into the school environment, and her dedication and love for the students are unmatched. The nominator expresses gratitude for her hard work and dedication, highlighting the lives she has touched and saved. Joanna’s contributions to the student body are invaluable, making her one of the greatest staff members at the school.

Chris has dedicated over 20 years to the construction industry in Boston, specializing in repairing foundations throughout Beacon Hill and the city. His work extends beyond city limits, replacing rotten wooden piles with concrete under buildings. With his hands and a shovel, Chris digs down around 10 feet to ensure the stability of these structures. His contributions to the city are profound, as he has played a vital role in laying the foundations for many of the buildings in Boston. Chris truly embodies the essence of building and shaping this incredible city.