The Guilford Preservation Alliance and The Guilford Foundation invite the community to honor Shirley Girioni and celebrate her extraordinary contributions to Guilford at a special rededication ceremony on Saturday, October 24, from 11 a.m. to noon.

The event will celebrate the completion of improvements to the Welcome Center at 32 Church Street and its rededication in Shirley’s honor. First Selectman Matt Hoey, representatives of the Guilford Preservation Alliance (GPA), and The Guilford Foundation Executive Director Liza Janssen Petra will offer brief remarks, followed by a reception. The event is free and open to the public.

For more than five decades, Shirley has helped shape Guilford through her leadership in historic preservation, conservation, beautification, town planning, and community service. Her contributions include spearheading efforts to plant 550 trees throughout Guilford’s historic borough and 100 additional trees along Route 1, championing protections for historic buildings and scenic roads, and helping establish organizations and programs that continue to serve the community.

A longtime leader of the Guilford Preservation Alliance and former Chair of the Planning and Zoning Commission, Shirley has consistently brought people and organizations together to turn ideas into lasting improvements for Guilford. Her influence shows throughout town, from its historic streetscapes and preserved open spaces to the community organizations and traditions she helped build.

GPA has also established the Shirley Girioni Fund at The Guilford Foundation to honor her legacy. The unrestricted fund will provide ongoing resources to address Guilford’s evolving needs, extending Shirley’s commitment to strengthening the community for generations to come.

To celebrate the rededication, Erica Azarigian, owner of Whitfield & Company and Ella, Where She Shops, will donate 10% of store sales on October 24 to the Shirley Girioni Fund.

EVENT DETAILS

Shirley Girioni Welcome Center Rededication

Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026

Time: 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Location: Shirley Girioni Welcome Center, 32 Church Street, Guilford

Program: Brief remarks followed by a reception

Admission: Free and open to the public

The event will take place rain or shine, with the Guilford Community Center serving as the indoor backup location. Street parking is encouraged because another event will be taking place at the Community Center.

All are welcome to join this celebration of Shirley and the lasting impact she has made on Guilford.