Coral Springs honors six exceptional volunteers with the 2025 Lynne Johnson Awards for their commitment to community service
Coral Springs, Florida – In a heartfelt tribute to the spirit of community service, the City of Coral Springs honored six remarkable individuals during a City Commission Meeting held on Wednesday, April 16, presenting each with the 2025 Lynne Johnson Award. The annual awards, named after Lynne Johnson—a devoted volunteer whose legacy continues to inspire—recognize those who go above and beyond to uplift and support their community through selfless acts of service.
Each of this year’s recipients has shown extraordinary dedication in their respective areas, ranging from youth mentorship and historical preservation to environmental advocacy and arts promotion. Their impact is felt across all corners of Coral Springs, and city leaders made it clear just how valued their efforts are.
The awards serve as a reminder of the values Lynne Johnson embodied—compassion, commitment, and a deep love for the community. Her legacy lives on not only through the award that bears her name but in every volunteer who continues her mission of giving back.
Youth Empowered Through Art
The “Youth Making a Difference” award was presented to Jane Collin, who has volunteered for the last three years with the Coral Springs Police Department’s Summer Youth Program. As the lead Art Instructor, Jane brings creativity and warmth into the program, helping children express themselves through art. Thanks to her leadership, campers leave the program with an entire portfolio of completed works, each piece a tangible memory of growth and exploration.
A Lifetime of Historical Dedication
Al Nigro was honored in the category of “Seniors Making a Difference.” A Coral Springs resident since 1970, Al has dedicated over two decades of service to the Historical Advisory Committee. His passion for local history is infectious, and despite recent health challenges, he continues to volunteer at least five hours a month, guiding museum tours and helping with city events. His contributions during the city’s 60th Anniversary celebration were especially notable, further cementing his role as a local treasure.
Strengthening City Services with Consistency
In the category “Committed to Enhancing City Services,” the city recognized Nailah Hickling, a high school senior who has volunteered with the City Clerk’s Office for the past eight months. Juggling school responsibilities with a consistent volunteer schedule, Nailah supports the office twice a week, helping maintain smooth operations. Her reliability and maturity have made her an indispensable part of the team, and her efforts exemplify the incredible potential of youth engagement in civic affairs.
Champion of the Arts
Recognized for “Enhancing the Lives of Coral Springs Residents,” Diane Dixon has spent over a decade dedicating 40 to 50 hours each month volunteering at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts. As a theater usher, Diane ensures that every guest has a welcoming experience. She often comes straight from her full-time job at a library, never missing a performance and always greeting theatergoers with a smile. Her devotion to the arts has helped make cultural experiences more enjoyable and accessible for all.
Environmental Stewardship in Action
The “Enhancing and Preserving the Natural Environment” award went to Curt Tiefenbrun, a passionate environmental advocate who serves on the Environmental Sustainability Committee. Curt contributes 24 hours a month to the committee and is best known for leading the “Keep Our Trees” movement, a campaign that successfully protected 22 miles of trees along Coral Springs’ canal banks from removal. His advocacy has preserved not just trees, but the ecological balance and beauty of the community’s green spaces.
Supporting Youth Through Sports and Inclusion
Ken Kowalski was honored in the category “Working with Youth in Sports.” His volunteer work with the Challenger Baseball League and the Special Olympics has helped young athletes thrive in an encouraging and inclusive environment. Ken’s mentorship goes far beyond the field—he teaches teamwork, builds confidence, and nurtures a love for sports among youth of all abilities. His efforts have made a lasting impact on children and families across the city.
A Culture of Gratitude and Giving
The Lynne Johnson Awards are more than a ceremony—they’re a celebration of what makes Coral Springs special. It’s a city that thrives on community engagement, where volunteers are recognized not only for their time but for the heart they put into everything they do. During the ceremony, city officials praised the honorees for their efforts and reminded attendees that everyone, no matter their background or age, can make a difference.
In her remarks during the presentation, one official reflected on the power of volunteerism to create change:
“The work our volunteers do is not always seen, but it is always felt. They shape our community in quiet, powerful ways.”
The City of Coral Springs continues to encourage residents to get involved in civic life. Whether it’s through youth mentorship, environmental initiatives, or cultural programming, every volunteer adds a thread to the city’s vibrant fabric. For those interested in joining the movement, opportunities are available across departments and age groups.
To learn more about how to become a volunteer in Coral Springs, visit www.coralsprings.gov/volunteer or call 954-346-4430.
In a world where time is one of the most valuable gifts, these six honorees have given theirs generously—and Coral Springs is all the better for it.
