New London Mayor Michael Passero has been chosen as this year’s recipient of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy’s JoAnn Miller Community Award.

The award is given to a member of the academy or greater New London community who has worked as an active liaison between the academy and the City of New London, building a bridge between the two entities. It recognizes efforts that have made significant, lasting contributions to the academy, the cadets and the New London community. Past recipients include chef Michael Cummings, state Rep. Chris Soto, Lt. Takana Skelton and Dr. Robert Newton.

An awards ceremony is scheduled from 5:30 to 8 p.m. April 6 at the academy’s Otto Graham Hall of Athletic Excellence.

Passero also was honored earlier this week with a Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut Board of Directors Special Award "for his leadership during the negotiations for the new State Pier operator and his commitment to the region during the government shutdown."