Rotary Club Names Framingham Patch Editor Citizen of the Year

The Rotary Club of Framingham presented Framingham Patch editor Susan Petroni its Citizen of the Year award, at a ceremony at the Framingham Country Club on Thursday night, June 19.

This is what was read before Petroni accepted her award:

"For me an outstanding 'citizen' is someone who builds & fosters local community connection in a significant way. As editor at the Framingham Patch news site, Susan Petroni works tirelessly to plug everyone into what's going on in and around Framingham. A Framingham resident since 2000, she's passionate about all things Framingham. Where we're going, our history, current trends or events that impact us. She's a great example of how one person's commitment can make a difference, leading others to participate and get involved in their community. Her interest & compassion draws people to connect, participate and inquire through the power of social media. She enthusiastically collaborates with groups and individuals keeping the Framingham Patch site central to all types of breaking news. ... Whether it is seasonal events, fun local facts, school or sports activities, key Town Meeting issues, police news, political campaigns, traffic situations or community efforts around a tragedy, her commitment to providing information and context helps build a strong vibrant community."

Petroni, who launched the Framingham Patch community news site on Dec. 1 2010, had been its only editor, until late Jan. 2014, when AOL sold Patch to Hale Global.

In February 2014, Petroni launched her own company (Petroni Media Company), and Patch hired her company to provide content, edit and oversee the Framingham Patch site.

Editor's Note: I am humbled by the honor. It seems odd to publish a report on myself, but as many of your know I am the only reporter/writer based in Framingham at Patch.

During Thursday night's ceremony the Rotary Club also named its Rotarian of the Year and its Organization of the Year, as well as installed new officers. Framingham Patch will have reports on all three of those honors/event on the site shortly.