Dr. Dennis Golden, Fontbonne University president, and his wife, Monica, were honored April 10 with the Crème de la Clayton Award at Clayton City Hall. The Goldens have lived in Clayton since 1995 when he became the 13th president of the Catholic university.

The award was established in 2005 to recognize selected Clayton citizens for their community work and exemplary leadership. Awardees are actively engaged residents, business people or businesses who have gone above and beyond to serve the city and enhance the quality of life for all residents, employees and visitors, according to Clayton officials.

“Monica and I are humbled by this award, and, of course proud to have lived and worked in Clayton for many years,” Golden said. “On behalf of the students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors and our sponsors, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, we are honored to be part of the vital and vibrant Clayton community.”

The aldermen of each of Clayton’s three wards are asked to nominate up to three residents per ward for the honor. The Goldens represent Ward I and were nominated by Andrea Maddox-Dallas and Judy R. Goodman.

Fontbonne University is a Catholic coeducational institution of higher education offering liberal arts and professional programs, as well as accelerated formats for busy adults. Fontbonne was founded in 1923 and is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet.