WOODBRIDGE –Fourth generation caterer Meredith Abel of New Haven will be honored by Ezra Academy at its “Dream Builder” Gala and Auction on March 3.
A 1993 graduate of the Woodbridge day school and a philanthropist, Abel assumed command of her family’s business ACI Catering Group shortly after her father, Neil Abel, died four years ago.  In addition to her many contributions to Ezra, she plays an active volunteer role as the Ezra Academy girls’ basketball coach.
Among her numerous achievements, Abel has developed a literacy program to assist women earning their GEDs while in prison and has been teaching nutrition and basic kitchen skills to elementary school students through the Leadership, Education, Athletics, Partnership program (LEAP).  A graduate of Syracuse University, she is a two-year volunteer with New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG).  As a field manager and program director for NYPIRG, she has educated the public on environmental and legislative issues in upstate New York.
“I am truly honored to have been chosen to be recognized in this fashion,” said Abel.  “Ezra will always be an important part of my life, and I am happy to volunteer and do anything I can to help the school continue to grow.”
“Meredith is an incredible human being and an invaluable asset to our community,” said Richard Gusenburg, Ezra’s interim head of school.  “She has given so much to Ezra as well as to others outside of our school.  We couldn’t be more thrilled to name her the honoree at our upcoming gala event.”
The Dream Builder Gala and Auction will include dinner, entertainment, and live and silent auctions.  For more information call (203) 389-5500 ext. 33 or jsadek@ezraacademy.net.