In 2005, Tampa Connection began the tradition of recognizing its outstanding alumni with the “Citizen of the Year” award. In 2009, the award was renamed after Betty Tribble, the award’s first recipient. Betty retired as Vice President of The United Way of Tampa Bay in 2013 and was a long-standing Tampa Connection board member. Betty and past award recipients have been selected based on their significant accomplishments in the Tampa Bay Community. 

The Betty Tribble Award is given to a member of the Tampa Bay community who is not a current Tampa Connection Class Member or a current Tampa Connection Board Member and who has exemplified the qualities and commitments of Betty through community involvement, continued Tampa Connection involvement, strong community leadership, and other significant accomplishments.