The Italian Heritage and Cultural Committee of Norwich has selected its annual Italians of the Year for 2022.

The awards are annually given to a person of Italian descent who through his/her efforts has contributed to the progress and betterment of the community; a person who has demonstrated an understanding and belief in Italian culture and heritage; and a person who lives, works or contributes to the greater Norwich area, among other qualifications.

This year, Dr. Mark Tramontozzi and John Grillo will be honored.

Tramontozzi attended Norwich public schools and Norwich Free Academy before going to college at Holy Cross and medical school at Georgetown. Tramontozzi serves on the board of Dime Bank and is the president of the Norwich Free Academy and Three Rivers Community College foundation boards. He also serves on the board of the Hartford HealthCare East Region and is a past president of the Backus Medical Staff.

Grillo graduated from UConn, and began his professional career with Utley & Jones in Norwich. He now owns the pharmacy on Lafayette Street. He is an avid, albeit quiet supporter of the many things Norwich, including the Taste of Italy, the William W. Backus Hospital and the Haitian Health Foundation.

Past winners of the Italian of the Year Aware are Wally Lamb, John Iovino, Betty Colletti LaFreniere, Anthony Alessi and Jim Leone.

Friends & Neighbors is a regular feature. To submit email times@theday.com.