WORCESTER—Colin Novick has spent nearly three decades helping Worcester County residents connect with the land beneath their feet. This week, he received one of the region’s highest honors for it.
Greater Worcester Community Foundation has named Novick, executive director of the Greater Worcester Land Trust, the 2025 recipient of its Renaissance Award — a recognition of his long-standing commitment to land preservation and community engagement.
The award, established in 2004 by GWCF founding member John W. “Jack” Lund, honors individuals in Worcester County’s nonprofit sector who demonstrate exceptional leadership and innovation. Novick, who became the Land Trust’s first employee 27 years ago, was selected from a field of nominees submitted by the Foundation’s more than 250 corporators.
“I was so shocked to receive this year’s Renaissance Award,” Novick said in the foundation’s announcement. “Knowing how many amazing nonprofits are in this region, I’ve always felt that the land trust flew under the radar. Being nominated and selected is a great surprise and honor.”
The award includes a $5,000 personal prize for Novick to use toward study or travel, and a matching $5,000 unrestricted grant to support the Land Trust’s operations. Novick plans to use his share to travel — with relaxation in mind but inspiration likely to follow. “Even though the purpose of this travel will be to relax and rejuvenate, I know I will come back inspired by the land and with new ideas for my work,” he said.
Founded in 1987, the Greater Worcester Land Trust works to preserve open spaces, protect wildlife habitats, and connect the public to nature through trail management and educational programming. With a staff of just 2.5 and a corps of volunteers, the Land Trust has been instrumental in projects like the Four Town Greenway, which stretches from Worcester through Holden, Paxton and Leicester.
“Colin sees himself as the bridge between land and community,” the foundation said in its announcement. “He has dedicated his career to helping preserve natural spaces for generations to come.”
George Dresser, a founding board member of the Land Trust, called Novick a rare talent. “A lot of our success is due to [Colin’s] energy, enthusiasm, skills, versatility, know-how, and devotion to the land trust and its mission,” Dresser wrote in his nomination. “He is a rare person and a pleasure to work with; the land trust is extremely fortunate to have him.”
Novick was honored during the Greater Worcester Community Foundation’s Annual Meeting on June 3.
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