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Kentucky Derby Party

On May 2, the Armory at MGM Springfield was the setting for hats, horses, and hors d’oeuvres to celebrate the 151st annual Kentucky Derby. The sold-out event raised much-needed funds for Square One’s programs and services. Since 2016, this annual event has become a signature fundraiser for Square One. Decked out in their derby best, about 250 guests watched the race on a giant screen, while enjoying traditional mint juleps and participating in raffles and a silent auction.
(Photos by Chris Marion Photography)

Launching Tech Careers

Tech Foundry, the regional leader in IT workforce development and training, was recently awarded $10,000 by the Liberty Bank Foundation to support its flagship Tech Launch program, which includes 14 weeks of classroom instruction followed by a four-week internship that empowers individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the tech industry. On May 6, Liberty Bank First Vice President and Senior Relationship Manager Jeffrey Sattler and Community Outreach Officer and Tech Foundry board member Dawn Creighton (pictured at right and left of check) presented the donation to Tech Foundry CEO Tricia Canavan (center), who was accompanied by several Tech Foundry staff members and Tech Launch students.

New Space, New Chapter

On April 30, the Applied Mortgage Team of HMA Mortgage opened the doors to its new space at 15 College Highway, Unit A, Southampton. The community was invited to attend an open house and ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate this new chapter. The first-floor space offers improved accessibility, greater visibility, and a more open environment, while also allowing the team to host educational workshops, community events, and industry gatherings, further strengthening its role as a local resource and connector. Pictured: Lindsay Barron LaBonte (center), branch manager and senior loan officer, cuts the ribbon to signify the opening of the new office.

Inclusive Postsecondary Education Day

Westfield State University joined educators, students, and advocates at the Massachusetts State House to mark a historic milestone in inclusive higher education: the Commonwealth’s first official proclamation designating May 1 as Inclusive Postsecondary Education (IPSE) Day. The proclamation formally recognizes the importance of expanding access to higher education opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Massachusetts. Pictured: Westfield State students (from left) Mikey Osowiecki, Julia Bardakova, Katelyn Flaherty, and Joseph Drake meet with state Rep. Sean Garballey (center) for a tour of the State House.

Supporting the Gray House

Earlier this spring, the Gray House of Springfield received a $1,738.50 donation from the Advanced Public Relations class in Westfield State University’s Communication Department. Through their coursework, students enthusiastically developed and executed a campaign that raised both awareness and critical funds for the Gray House. This class has now raised more than $20,000 for local nonprofits over the past years. Pictured: the students with Gray House Executive Director Isabella Brady-Prankus (fifth from right) and Professor Suzanne Boniface (third from right).