ANNOUNCING THE CLASS OF 2026

The Meriden Hall of Fame is proud to announce our class of 2026 inductees:
Gary “Tex” Burt, in the category of Community Service
Justin Piccirillo, in the category of Literature
Michael Roberts, in the category of Sports
Ashbil Griswold, in the category of Historic Persons

Join us for the 2026 Induction Ceremony on Saturday, October 17, 2026 at 2:00pm at the Meriden Public Library. The event is free and open to the public.

Inductees

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Featured Inductee

Thomas Ryan (Sports)

1943 –

Thomas Ryan was born July 16, 1943 in Gardner, Massachusetts. His athletic journey began at Gardner High School where he played football and baseball under influential coaches Walt Dubzinski and Joe Bishop who shaped him as an athlete, student, and individual. He continued his education at University of Massachusetts, Springfield College, and University of Bridgeport, laying the foundation for his future coaching career. Following graduation, Tom embarked on his football...

U.S. POSTAL SERVICE STAMPS HONORING HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES

Rosa Ponselle
Inducted: 1977 | Stamp released: 1997

Thomas Anthony "Tomie" dePaola
Inducted: 1985 | Stamp released: 2023

2023 U.S. Postal Service stamp honoring 1985 inductee Thomas Anthony “Tomie” dePaola and his Caldecott Medal–winning children’s book Strega Nona.