Established in 2019 in collaboration with the Connecticut Immigrant & Refugee Coalition (CIRC), the Salma Khatoon Farid Educator Award honors the memory and values of Salma woman whose life embodied quiet resilience, deep respect for educators, and an unwavering belief in the power of education to transform lives.

Salma Khatoon Farid, mother of Tariq Farid, could not complete her own formal education in Pakistan due to financial hardship. Yet, she cherished every moment she spent in school and carried with her a lifelong love of learning. When she immigrated to the United States in 1980, she was deeply moved by the compassion and skill of her ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher, who helped her find her voice in a new country through language.

That experience shaped her perspective on the role of educators and the importance of education. Salma Khatoon made it her mission to ensure her children received the best education possible and instilled in them a profound respect for teachers. She often reminded them of the dignity of educators by quoting a verse from an Urdu poet:

“Surahi sir-Nigon ho ker bhara karti hai paimana.”

“The pitcher bows its head, yet it fills the cup.”

This beautiful metaphor reminds us that humility—so often found in great teachers—holds the power to nourish, uplift, and shape future generations.

The Salma Khatoon Farid Educator Award is presented annually to a remarkable educator who has dedicated many years to teaching and guiding immigrant children, youth, or adults. It is a tribute to those who, like Salma’s teacher, change lives through their commitment, compassion, and belief in the potential of every learner.

The first recipient:
The first recipient in 2019 was Nancy Caddigan who is an amazing teacher and coordinator of the Hartford Public Library American Place ESL program for immigrant and refugee adults who come from over 20 different countries. Learn more about Nancy Caddigan in this article.