Guilford Health Director 'Superhero' Sonia Marino Honored By Town

GUILFORD, CT — Sonia Marino hasn't been working for the town very long, but the work she's done as health director during a pandemic makes her a superhero.

Marino was honored for her tireless efforts with the Guilford Employee Recognition Award for March 2021.

Marino replacing retired long-time health director Dennis Johnson. She joined the town in September 2020 in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic.

First Selectman Matt Hoey, who initiated the program, has encouraged employees to nominate their colleagues, folks who should be recognized for outstanding achievement and performance in their work.

Marino was nominated by sanitarian Shirley Mickens, assistant fire chief Michael Shove, and Human Resources administrative assistant Jessica Russo.

Mickens said she nominated Marino because of her work during the pandemic as health director.

"Sonia has been working for the town for a short time, but has already demonstrated unwavering commitment and fortitude during this difficult time towards the goal of fostering public health in Guilford," Mickens said. “Sonia has established many partnerships with other departments in order to accomplish necessary public health goals for the Town. One such accomplishment was establishing a weekly vaccination clinic at the community center for residents. Another accomplishment was to administer the contact tracing program for the town…with the end goal to try to stop the spread of COVID-19. Sonia is always willing and happy to help others.”

Shove said that, “Over the past year…we have worked collaboratively, …and her professionalism and positive attitude have made it very easy to accomplish goals."

"She has flawlessly communicated critical information to all town departments which has been essential to our response at the fire department," he said. "Sonia has spent countless hours of her own time to ensure the success of her department and this town.”

Russo said she's a "superhero."

"She works around the clock to set-up clinics, ensure safety in all employees and residents, makes sure weekly shipments of vaccines make it to Guilford, volunteers her time on weekends, and weeknights to work at clinics, and so on," he said. "Sonia has gone above and beyond to serve not only the community but the Board of Education, ensuring the safety of all students and staff.”