Norwalk Arts Center honors top volunteers for 2026

NORWALK — The Norwalk Arts Center recently recognized four volunteers for their contributions to the organization's theater and programming efforts, including its top annual honors and milestone achievements. Kathleen Sigsworth was named the 2026 Volunteer of the Year, while Sophia Smith was recognized as the 2026 Teen Volunteer of the Year. Additionally, Clover Ruffing and Molly McFadden each reached the 100-hour volunteer milestone, according to a release from the organization. Sigsworth Sigsworth has been involved with the Norwalk Arts Center since its founding in 2019 and currently serves as treasurer, according to a news release. In that role, she manages bookkeeping, tax preparation and budget oversight, while also contributing to business decisions, operations and grant allocations. She serves on the executive board and is also a member of the scholarship and fundraising committees. According to the release, Sigsworth has also contributed to construction-related decision-making and maintenance of the theater as the organization continues fundraising and rehabilitation efforts of the Norwalk Theater. In addition to administrative work, she has assisted with building stage sets and props and has performed in pit orchestras for multiple productions. Sigsworth and her husband, Paul, are members of the Norwalk Theater Founders Circle, a group that supports the organization through leadership and financial contributions. She was presented with a set of engraved Pilsner glasses in recognition of the award. Smith Smith, a home-schooled sophomore, has volunteered with the arts center since 2019 in both performance and production roles. Her acting credits include appearances in "Peter Pan, Jr.," "Matilda, Jr.," "Willy Wonka, Jr." and "Back to the 80's," and she is currently involved in the upcoming production of "Alice By Heart." Beyond acting, Smith also served as a teen helper for "Seussical, Jr.," stage manager for "Finding Nemo, Jr." and assisted with set construction for Arts Explorers events. She has also participated in fundraising efforts, including a pancake breakfast at the Eagles and grocery bagging at Miller's. Since April 2024, Smith has logged more than 200 volunteer hours, according to the release. She received a commemorative plaque presented by volunteer coordinator Lisa Bleile. Ruffing and McFadden Ruffing and McFadden, both sophomores at St. Paul High School, were recognized for each contributing 100 volunteer hours to the organization. Both have participated in junior and teen productions, served as teen helpers for "Seussical" and "Finding Nemo, Jr." and assisted with fundraising efforts. They also serve on the Norwalk Arts Center Teen Association board, with Ruffing holding the role of treasurer. Each received a certificate and a Sheri's Coffee House gift card in recognition of the milestone, according to the release.