The Vermont Democratic Party is proud to announce the 2021 Curtis-Hoff Award Winners: Mary Sullivan, Representative Kevin “Coach” Christie, and Dotty Kyle.
Last Saturday, Democrats from across Vermont gathered in celebration of this year’s Curtis-Hoff Award Winners, live from the DoubleTree by Hilton in South Burlington.
Democrats celebrated Representative Kevin “Coach” Christie, Social Equity Caucus Chair, educator, and mentor, who has committed himself to the call for systemic change for years; Mary Sullivan, Democratic National Committeewoman and former Vermont state representative, who has long supported and mentored countless Democratic volunteers and candidates; and Dotty Kyle, local activist, climate change advocate, and community organizer.
At the Awards Ceremony, Coach Christie said, “It’s humbling [to be recognized this way]. It is special. You just do the work and you don’t think about the accolades.” He went on to thank his family for their influence on this work and finished with a quote from the late Congressman John Lewis: “Little by little, day by day, what’s meant for you will find its way.”
Mary Sullivan recalled her political start as a 10-year-old who volunteered to knock doors when her neighbor ran for Mayor. “It [also] came from my parents, who believed in activism – democracy is about activism; you’ve got to get out there and you’ve got to fight.” She also spoke of learning from the influence of David Curtis and Governor Phil Hoff, “to have that moral compass and always be guided by that. We do this work because we want to make the world better for the people around us.”
Dotty Kyle spoke to reputation as a political “cheerleader” and her life’s work of trying to help others be informed voters and get out and vote. She shared a new slogan of hers: “Educate. Advocate. Agitate.”
In celebration of the winners, VDP Chair Bruce Olsson said: “This year’s Curtis-Hoff awardees are true stalwarts, who have distinguished themselves not only in their service to the Vermont Democratic Party, but also in their life long dedication and advocacy for social, racial, and economic justice. Their ongoing commitment continues to inspire us all.”
Special guests included DNC Chair Jaime Harrison, Maryland Congressman Jamie Raskin, federal and state Vermont Democratic elected officials, Vermont Democratic Party leadership, and 2021 Curtis-Hoff Award Winners. Prior to the Awards Ceremony, Speaker Jill Krowinski hosted the Awards’ annual Unity Reception featuring former Texas Senator and reproductive rights champion Wendy Davis.
The Vermont Democratic Party extends its thanks to all who attended and made the 2021 Curtis-Hoff Awards possible.