Ellafi is proud to share that our Senior Vice President and Co-Acting CEO, Robyn Swanson, has been named this year’s Strong, Smart, and Bold Woman of the Year by Girls Inc. of Central Connecticut. This award honors women who exemplify confidence, perseverance, and impact, and who help girls and young women realize their full potential both academically and in life.
Since 2000, Girls Inc. of Central Connecticut has recognized leaders who demonstrate excellence in their professions and who devote their time and energy to improving the quality of life in their communities. The Strong, Smart, and Bold Woman of the Year is their highest recognition. It celebrates a woman who not only models achievement, but who gives back in ways that help others rise.
Robyn’s leadership at Ellafi reflects a deep belief that financial empowerment and access to education are essential tools for expanding opportunity. Her work has strengthened partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and community organizations and has championed financial education programs that reach individuals and families across Connecticut.
Reflecting on the honor, Robyn shared,
I am deeply grateful for this recognition. Girls Inc helps girls discover their strength and their voice and encourages them to envision futures filled with possibility. To be honored alongside women who are making such meaningful contributions to our communities is both humbling and inspiring.
She also spoke about the shared mission between Ellafi and Girls Inc. “When we invest in women and girls, we create ripple effects that strengthen families, neighborhoods, and entire communities. Empowerment grows through access, education, and support, and it flourishes when girls are encouraged to lead with confidence and purpose.”
Robyn leads with both expertise and heart. Her commitment to lifting others up reflects the very qualities Girls Inc celebrates through this award. Ellafi is incredibly proud to celebrate her.
We extend our warmest congratulations to Robyn and to all of this year’s Strong, Smart, and Bold honorees. These women are shaping brighter futures and are powerful role models for the next generation of leaders. Girls Inc continues to play a vital role in that work by helping girls across Connecticut grow strong, smart, and bold, and by encouraging them to lead with confidence and purpose.
Strong, Smart, and Bold Awards Celebration
Award recipients will be honored, and all nominees acknowledged, at the Annual Strong, Smart, and Bold Awards Celebration on March 18, 2026 at The Lodge at Powder Ridge Mountain Park and Resort. Girls Inc will share more details about the event on their website, so we encourage our community to check back for updates as the date approaches.