Home 2020 May 12 (Page 2)

Day: May 12, 2020

Peter Leonczyk

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Financial Advisor, Pioneer Valley Financial Group; Age 36; Education: Westfield State University

Since joining PV Financial Group in 2013, Leonczyk has grown his book of business by 150%, and is now responsible for 16% of the firm’s total revenue, while finding time to volunteer with organizations like the Ludlow CARES Coalition and Junior Achievement.

Peter Leonczyk

Peter Leonczyk

What did you want to be when you grew up? I always dreamed of becoming an environmental police officer. My parents instilled in me a deep appreciation for the outdoors very early on. From camping throughout New England to fishing in every body of water I could find, I’ve always felt a duty to protect and preserve the environment. As I grew up, my desire to connect and serve with my community and interest in economics and finance led me down the path of becoming a financial advisor. My desire today is to instill in my children that same love of the outdoors and serving others, creating special memories that impact the individuals they grow up to become.

What are you passionate about? I’m passionate about serving my community because I care deeply for everyone in it. Coaching youth football is just another example of how my past and present interests have converged. It comes naturally for me to build strong connections with friends, community members, teammates, and clients because I’m interested in their lives and their families; I’m fueled by their stories, passions, hopes, and dreams.

What will work colleagues say at your funeral? I’m passionate, slightly dramatic, and I know how to deliver a good one-liner. I make friends easily, and I’m as sappy as I am sarcastic. I’m deeply committed to my family, my friends, and all the people I’ve met throughout my life.

What person, past or present, would you like to have lunch with, and why? I think about my grandfathers a lot. My mother’s father was an Air Force pilot in World War II and a helicopter pilot in the Korean War. He instilled in our family a deep respect and admiration for giving back through his 30 years of military service. My mother speaks to his honor and integrity, passing down the belief system that you should always do the right thing even when no one is watching. My father’s father served in the Navy and went on to become a master electrician. I would be honored to sit across from these men and learn more about the experiences that shaped them.

Dave Lipke

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Head of Financial Insights, MassMutual; Age 34; Education: College of the Holy Cross (BA); Boston University (MBA)

As part of the Corporate Finance team, Lipke has worked to help MassMutual serve more Americans by designing a solution for Main Street investors to gain access to private equity, and has spoken in Washington on ways to expand investment access to private assets. Among his community efforts, he volunteers at Friends of Children Inc., mentoring a young adult transitioning out of the foster-care system.

Dave Lipke

Dave Lipke

What did you want to be when you grew up? When I was growing up, I never could decide what I wanted to be. I often thought of being an architect, to design new buildings, or an engineer, to build new cars, or an entrepreneur, to launch new products. When I applied for colleges, I mostly applied to liberal-arts colleges, so I could take a variety of classes. In fact, I wrote in my college admission essay that, if I could live at any time in history other than today, that I would choose the Renaissance, so that there would not be such pressure to specialize in any one particular field of study.

What’s your favorite hangout or activity in Western Mass., and why? When I want to relax, I often read a thriller, which is one of the few things that helps me to unplug. When I am looking for inspiration, however, I usually pick up a biography, where I can learn about people who have accomplished amazing things in very different walks of life. Some of my favorites include Steve Jobs and Unbroken. While I haven’t found the solution yet, I am passionate about helping to revitalize the economy of Western Mass. Our kids are young — only 2 and 4 — but when they graduate from college, I want the Pioneer Valley to be an area they can return to without giving up any of their dreams. Hopefully we can celebrate their college graduation at the Student Prince, one of our favorite restaurants in the area.

What actor would play you in a movie about your life? I would choose Daniel Craig. I work in finance — not the emergency room or statecraft — so picking the leading actor from the James Bond series would infuse some excitement into the story. While I have done nothing to deserve a movie about me, I hope it would portray someone who led change or development of an innovation that made a difference in people’s lives.

Andrea Luttrell

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Big Y Foods Inc.; Age 36; Education: Holyoke Community College (ABA), UMass Amherst (BS)

As the face of Big Y’s nutrition outreach programs, Luttrell takes on myriad roles in the chain, such as participating in more than 25 community presentations each year — in settings like libraries, schools, senior centers, and cancer-survivorship meetings — where she reaches more than 5,000 people with positive nutrition and lifestyle messaging. She also writes food and nutrition columns for local media, helped create Big Y’s Kids’ Fruit Club, which provides kids with a free piece of fruit while shopping with an adult, and has expanded community partnerships with regional wellness organizations.

Andrea Luttrell

Andrea Luttrell   

What’s been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? I’ve always been introverted and would rather be working behind the scenes rather than in the spotlight. However, working with Big Y has enabled me to push beyond my comfort levels to become confident in myself, whether in front of a camera doing a media interview or speaking to a large group during a community presentation. This personal and professional accomplishment has helped me become the registered dietitian I am today — and I think my story can help inspire others that, with hard work and determination, anything is possible. If you’re not uncomfortable, you’re not growing!

How do you relieve stress? My favorite way to decompress is through baking. There is something calming about it, and I love experimenting with new recipes. Then, I also get to share what I’m making with family and friends — and that brings me a sense of happiness as well. Besides baking, I center myself through reading or simply getting away in nature. You’ll find me taking walks with my boys, spending time at our camp, or out in a kayak. Most recently, I started knitting with a group of girlfriends. This is proving to be a great way to relieve stress.

What person, past or present, would you like to have lunch with, and why? If I could pick one person, it would by my memere, Yolande Croteau. I was extremely close to my grandmother, and she always believed I would be accepted into a dietetic internship program, which is something that is extremely competitive but also necessary in order to become a registered dietitian. She passed away before I was able to share the news that I did get into my first-choice program, and she would have been so incredibly proud. I would love for her to see where I am today.

William Lynch IV

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Deli and Bakeshop Regional Sales Lead, Stop and Shop; Age 38; Education: Holyoke Community College (AS)

Lynch has worked for Stop and Shop since 1998, starting in high school as a bagger and working his way up to his current role as Deli and Bakeshop sales lead for 138 stores in the Central Region. In 2015, he was recognized as Specialist of the Year, an award Stop and Shop gives annually to a single individual who leads and develops teams and drives sales through detailed planning and execution strategies. In 2019, Lynch was elected to the Easthampton City Council, where he serves on the finance and appointment committees. In short, he’s passionate about ensuring financial rigor and sound fiscal decision making in both his career and as a councilor. Active in the community, he has been a committed volunteer with the Holyoke Saint Patrick’s Day Parade and Road Race committee since 2015, and he sits on the Easthampton Media board of directors, helping to guide the direction of public-access television locally. Lynch is also actively involved in Boys and Girls Clubs and the YMCA, and he often volunteers for his city’s Parks and Recreation department.

William Lynch IV

William Lynch IV

What did you want to be when you grew up? I always wanted to be an actor, and my dream was Saturday Night Live. Acting has helped me adjust to any situation, think creatively, and adjust at a moment’s notice.

What are you passionate about? I’m extremely passionate around music. I love going to live concerts and watching talented musicians share their craft. I have a lot of friends in the industry, and seeing them play live and create music helps fuel my passion.

What do you do for fun? When it rains, I play with my kids and build Lego creations. If it is nice outside, I enjoy geocaching in the woods.

What actor would play you in a movie about your life? I feel I would be played by Chris Pratt. He is very versatile and has taken on many different styles of characters in his career. I feel he would capture the range of roles I take on in life, from silly dad to business manager to city councilor. He could hit the full spectrum of those characters well.

Andrew Mankus

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Director of Residential Dining Operations, UMass Dining; Age 35; Education: Western New England University (BS)

A key part of the region’s university dining scene for the past decade, Mankus spent six years at UMass Amherst before successfully managing Westfield State University’s transition from Sodexo to self-operated. Three years later, he returned to UMass, where he oversees employee management and budgeting and conceptualizes creative and sustainable ideas for a dining program that generates 20,000 meals a day — and regularly ranks first in the nation in the Princeton Review. He’s also active in the community, running 5Ks to benefit various nonprofits as well as volunteering for groups like the Zoo in Forest Park and the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts.

Andrew Mankus

Andrew Mankus

What goal do you set for yourself at the start of each day? I actually set myself up for a successful day the evening before. I go through all e-mails, read them, and either close that task out for the day, or add to my to-do list for the following day. This gives me a fresh start in the morning and helps me stay productive throughout the day. Within my position at UMass, I set a goal for myself to interact with at least 50 team members and 50 students each day. I enjoy the opportunity to interact with such a diverse group of people on a daily basis.

What do you do for fun? I love to go on walks and hikes with my wife and dogs. In the warmer months, I love to go on a bike ride to the local brewery scene here in Western Mass. I am a foodie at heart and love to experience the great local food scene we have in our area as well.

How do you relieve stress? Any workout is a great way for me to relieve stress. I also enjoy getting outside when the weather is nice to play a round of golf or recreational softball. During the colder months, a competitive game night with friends can really take my mind off stressful situations, even though I am known to be highly competitive.

What fictional character do you relate to most, and why? Bruce Banner/the Hulk. Friends, family, and collegues would agree. I didn’t have any gamma radiation exposure or anything. I don’t think any further explanation is needed.

What actor would play you in a movie about your life? For no other reason than my wife would insist on it … Robert Downey Jr., but as Tony Stark. I’ll go with it.

Andrew McConaha

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Owner and Head of Strength and Conditioning, Train for Life Inc. Age 34; Education: UMass Amherst (BS)

McConaha has built his business from rented-out space at Wilbraham Soccer City to his own recently expanded facility, where he brings his passion for life and vitality to hundreds of members. From that platform, he also organizes fundraising events that give back to nonprofits and families in need.

Andrew McConaha

Andrew McConaha   Photo by Leah Martin Photography

What did you want to be when you grew up? When I was young, I remember wanting to go to school for marine biology and then work at Sea World, training seals. I was fascinated by science early on; I had a microscope in elementary school and was always looking at anything I could find underneath it. I always knew I’d be doing something related to science, and later on, I definitely knew it would also involve helping people smile.

What three words best describe you? Inspiring, vulnerable, compassionate.

What are you passionate about? I’m most passionate about uplifting others. From my work life to my friends and family, I always try to be a positive and motivating individual. As someone who has battled anxiety and depression for as long as I can remember, finding the positive in every situation is something that has helped me, and I try to do for others as much as I can.

Who inspires you, and why? My mom has always been one of the biggest inspirations in my life. As a single mom, she did everything she could to be present in my life. I can’t remember a single game or event growing up that my mom wasn’t in attendance for. That’s something I’ll always cherish — that she made it a point to be present and proud of me for all that I’ve done.

What actor would play you in a movie about your life? If I had my pick, I’d have to go with Matt Damon because he is my favorite actor of all time.

What fictional character do you relate to most, and why? One of my favorite books is The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. The main character embodies someone that always pursues their dreams by following what the heart desires most. Throughout the story, there are many failures and lessons, and as someone who feels that I’ve been through a lot for the sole purpose of helping others, I always hope to continue to be able to follow my dreams and help as many people as I can along the way.

Katie Manzi McDonough

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Partner, Egan, Flanagan & Cohen, P.C.; Age 34; Education: College of the Holy Cross (BA), Seton Hall University School of Law (JD)

Recently named a partner at her firm, McDonough’s practice includes estate planning and administration, business planning, and corporate law. A military spouse, her volunteer efforts have included service to veterans, including pro bono assistance to military families in the Army Legal Assistance Office. She recently helped create a committee of the Hampden County Bar Assoc. that will be a local hub of information and resources for both lawyers and non-lawyers who have questions about issues faced by military and veteran clients and their families.

Katie Manzi McDonough

Katie Manzi McDonough    Photo by Leah Martin Photography

What did you want to be when you grew up? Ever since I can remember, I wanted to be a lawyer. I truly have my dream job.

What goal do you set for yourself at the start of each day? My goal every workday is to leave my clients in a better position than before we met.

What are you passionate about? Faith, family, well-made pizza, civic engagement, and live music.

Who inspires you, and why? My husband, Michael. His confidence in our family, himself, and me is unwavering, and his positivity has always helped me to overcome many obstacles.

What do you do for fun? I enjoy playing with my two sons, and I like hosting gatherings for friends and family. I started golfing a few years ago, and I try to play as much as I can.

How do you relieve stress? In vino veritas. Also, I love to watch The Office, which I think is one of the greatest television shows ever made.

What’s your favorite hangout or activity in Western Mass., and why? Any authentic Western Mass. Italian pizza shop. NYC has nothing on our pizza! I am biased because I grew up in a family pizza shop in Springfield.

What person, past or present, would you like to have lunch with, and why? I would be honored to have lunch with Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito. She is a lawyer with a fantastic career as a public servant. I think she is a great role model for women like me.

What three words best describe you? Never limit an Italian woman to just three words.

Ronald Molina-Brantley

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Vice President, ReevX MyBanker, Berkshire Bank; Age 39; Education: American International College (MBA)

As vice president of Relationship Management for Berkshire Bank, Molina-Brantley was recently tapped to lead the ReevX Labs initiative for the city of Springfield. Utilizing community networks he’s built over time, and in a partnership with Valley Venture Mentors, he will provide programming and educational experiences, including financial-literacy and credit-repair courses, designed to boost financial success in the community.

Ronald Molina-Brantley

Ronald Molina-Brantley   Photo by Leah Martin Photography

What three words best describe you? Caring, loyal, driven.

What are you passionate about? Increasing generational wealth and entrepreneurship are two areas I’m most passionate about. For me, it’s extremely rewarding to provide support to individuals and/or businesses that have decided to take a chance on their dreams. In order to do that, the secret is sound financial planning. In these cases, I work alongside individuals and startups in thinking about how to establish short- and long-term financial goals, funding sources, investments, and other factors designed to ensure their financial success. Although financial success is defined by the individual and/or the business, their goals promote my efforts in increasing generational wealth. I do this by teaching financial literacy as an art to people that were never taught it. It is also important to mentor kids from a young age about money management, the ills of debt, compounding interest, and the importance of building multiple streams of income.

What person, past or present, would you like to have lunch with, and why? I’ve been fortunate to have some back-and-forths with Jack Welch in my youth as a caddy at Sankaty Head Golf course on Nantucket. Now that I am a more established leader, I would appreciate an opportunity to dive deeper into other aspects that would benefit from his mentorship. His recent passing is a loss for us all, but his lessons have had a huge impact on my approach to business, finance, and leadership. His work on how to succeed in an increasingly global environment, management, and Six Sigma has revolutionized the way businesses are conducted. “Before you become a leader,” he said, “success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others.” As Jack told me on numerous occasions, the best place to have a business meeting is on the golf course. So, for one last time, I’d have our meeting over a round of golf at Sankaty Head, like good old times.

Modesto Montero

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Founder and Executive Director, Libertas Academy Charter School; Age 31; Education: UMass Amherst (BA)

Under Montero’s leadership, Libertas Academy Charter School, in its third year of operation, is on track to be one of the highest-performing middle schools in the area, with plans to expand to a high school in the near future.

Modesto Montero

Modesto Montero   Photo by LifeTouchPhotography

 

What did you want to be when you grew up? I grew up very poor, but I was fortunate to have been raised in a Christian home. My upbringing fostered a sense of focus and a dedication to finding a way to make a difference in my community in a worthwhile career. As an immigrant, I initially thought about becoming an immigration lawyer, but while in college, I worked for an Upward Bound program as a mentor and tutor, and I instantly fell in love with working with young people in communities like the ones our school serves. So I decided to teach, and have continued my career as an educator. It’s been a wild and rewarding experience that has far exceeded my expectations.

What three words best describe you? Focus, relator, futuristic.

What are you passionate about? John Wesley, an 18th-century Methodist theologian, wrote, “do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.” This quote really captures the core of what I am most passionate about, which is fighting for social justice and equity. Not to be morbid, but when I die, I want to know that I did all the good that I could, for as long as I could.

What person, past or present, would you like to have lunch with, and why? My answer is so cliché and likely overused, but Barack Obama. He has been the most influential and consequential leader of my generation. I vividly remember the night he was elected; I cried. Obama continues to be a source of inspiration for so many black and brown kids — kids that, for so long, didn’t see themselves in our presidents or in most of our leaders. The power of representation cannot be overstated, and its impact has the type of ripple effect that can change the world. My one demand is that he brings Michelle to lunch because we know she is a powerhouse in her own right!

Tom Naro

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Doctor of Physical Therapy, Owner, My PT; Age 37; Education: Springfield College (MS), A.T. Still University (tDPT)

As a doctor of physical therapy frustrated by restrictions created by health-insurance companies that hindered the care and recovery of his patients, Naro created a new business model focused on patient-based care. He takes the time to holistically evaluate a client and teaches preventive measures to avoid the recurrence of the issue, all the while focused on the treatment of the discomfort, ailment, condition, or injury. My PT has evolved from house calls to a brick-and-mortar location in Southwick. Among his civic work, he’s been instrumental in the success of a bowling fundraiser in memory of a childhood friend to benefit the Westfield Baseball League and the Babe Ruth League of Westfield, and he has begun to connect to Friends of the Southwick Rail Trail.

Tom Naro

Tom Naro

What did you want to be when you grew up? I always wanted to be a doctor, but in the fourth grade, I wanted to be a cardiologist.

What three words best describe you? Compassionate, understanding, visionary.

What’s been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? Opening a custom physical-therapy clinic for My PT in 2019.

What are you passionate about? Helping others be better healers for themselves.

What do you do for fun? Being outdoors hiking, golfing, or going to rock concerts.

How do you relieve stress? Exercise by stretching, running, cycling, or practicing kicks.

What actor would play you in a movie about your life? Nicolas Cage.

Who inspires you, and why? My mom because, as a nurse, she cared for thousands of patients at Holyoke Medical Center. She worked throughout her parenting life because she wanted to provide for her family and her children’s future.

What person, past or present, would you like to have lunch with, and why? My grandmother, my mother’s mom, because we had lunches together when I was young. She passed away when I was 6 years old. I was too young to have an adult conversation with her. She would make tuna sandwiches with potato chips between the slices of bread, and for dessert, she made an angel-food cake that was perfectly sweet and airy. I’d like to hear her talk about her life and any pearls of wisdom she had to offer.

Kelly Partridge

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Founder, Contribution Clothing; Age 32; Education: Bay Path University (MS)

Partridge founded her online boutique with a focus on empowering women and supporting the community through monetary donations to Western Mass. nonprofits. Since her grand opening last June, she has worked with Bay Path University to develop an annual scholarship fund, created partnerships with several nonprofits, and provided monetary gifts to Dress for Success, Empty Arms Bereavement Support, Ovations for the Cure of Ovarian Cancer, and Safe Passage, all the while fundraising for events and promoting messages of empowerment to audiences of women and girls.

Kelly Partridge

Kelly Partridge

What did you want to be when you grew up? When I was younger, I wanted to be an artist. I even dabbled in graphic design in my 20s, but it really wasn’t for me. However, I will say they are great skills to have as a business owner.

What three words best describe you? Determined, altruistic, empowered.

What’s been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? Launching contributionclothing.com has been my biggest professional accomplishment so far. Starting a business is terrifying, and I was able to overcome that fear, take my passion for social justice, and create a mission-driven boutique that partners with some amazing local nonprofits. I’m excited to see it grow and to see the impact it can make within our community.

What goal do you set for yourself at the start of each day? This doesn’t always happen, but I really try to focus on self-care. Life gets busy, and it is really easy to get wrapped up in all the to-dos. Caring for myself first needs to be a priority.

Who inspires you, and why? I can’t choose one person. I would have to say anyone who has the ability to rise from a negative situation with a positive attitude and a goal of making themselves better because of it.

What person, past or present, would you like to have lunch with, and why? My great-grandmother, Della, who passed away when I was a teenager. She grew up during the Great Depression and rarely talked about her life. I’d love the opportunity to know more about her, and my family’s history.

What actress would play you in a movie about your life? I really like Sophia Bush and what she stands for. She’s a big advocate for female empowerment, education, and environmental rights. I think it would be really cool to be represented by someone like her.

Aisha Pizarro

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Vice President of Programs, YWCA of Western Mass; Age 38; Education: Springfield College (BS)

Pizarro began her career within the nonprofit sector as a sexual-assault and domestic-violence advocate at the YWCA. After a few years at the YWCA, she transitioned to Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services in Springfield and worked primarily with families experiencing mental-health and/or substance-abuse issues. After a year there, she transitioned to the Center for Human Development, where she remained for more than a decade. During her tenure at CHD, she quickly rose through the ranks, was appointed to Field Operations manager, and successfully ran a number of programs and helped countless individuals and families obtain affordable, permanent housing. Pizarro has been employed at the YWCA for almost three years now, overseeing 22 distinct programs and 150 employees. She has served on multiple task forces to design solutions to end homelessness and find affordable housing, especially for women.

Aisha Pizarro

Aisha Pizarro   Photo by Leah Martin Photography

What’s been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? My biggest accomplishment has been working with my employees and watching them grow into the leaders I know they are. Being in a position to help young men and women grow, particularly women of color, is by far my legacy.

Who inspires you, and why? First I would have to say my wife and children. My wife motivates and supports my work, while my daughters remind me that life is forgiving and laughter is necessary. Without them, I wouldn’t be half of the person that I am today. I am forever grateful for the human beings they are. I am inspired by the resiliency that my clients show, and I am humbled that I am afforded the opportunity to work with our community.

What person, past or present, would you like to have lunch with, and why? I would like to have lunch with my father and father-in-law, who have both passed on. I would love to have a chance to show them how much their granddaughters have grown, talk current politics (who’s in the White House), have a cup of coffee over a newspaper, talk COVID-19, talk about the state of the world. I would love to tell them how a Puerto Rican girl from a small barrio in Bayamon was selected for 40 Under Forty.

What do you do for fun? I am the fun!

Lee Pouliot

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Director of Planning & Development, City of Chicopee; Age 34; Education: Delaware Valley University (BS); Cornell University (MS)

Pouliot (pictured at left) has been involved in numerous key projects in Chicopee, including brownfield redevelopment, the City Hall rehabilitation, multiple park renovations, initiation of the “Envision Our Chicopee: 2040” plan, and much more.

Lee Pouliot

Lee Pouliot    Photo by Leah Martin Photography

What did you want to be when you grew up? A marine biologist.

What goal do you set for yourself at the start of each day? I’ve learned to expect the unexpected on a regular basis.

What are you passionate about? Taking on that project no one else wants to focus on. Easy projects quickly get champions and get completed; I’m attracted to the really complicated projects that take time and cross-sector collaboration to advance. Projects that can be transformational over the long term keep me focused.

What’s been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? Establishing Chicopee’s Community Street Tree Planting Volunteer Program. We work with the Forestry Department to train resident volunteers to plant bare-root trees in the fall or spring.

What do you do for fun? Play clarinet, design and install gardens, read, write, and spend time with our adorable niece, Noelle Grace.

How do you relieve stress? The gym and fitness, which is also how I force myself to leave the office on time.

What’s your favorite hangout or activity in Western Mass., and why? Concerts at Tanglewood, which combine my love of music and my love of nature. How often can one go to a live classical concert under the stars?

What person, past or present, would you like to have lunch with, and why? J.R.R. Tolkien, who is one of my favorite authors. He wrote in a way that painted vividly detailed pictures, and I would love to listen to him explain how life experiences influenced his writings and imagination.

What actor would play you in a movie about your life? Neil Patrick Harris.

What will work colleagues say at your funeral? I asked my team to respond: “I can’t believe he wanted to be a tree this bad.” “Lee made our community better by making sure we all played by the same rules. Lee had a wonderful way of easing discussions that resolved many conflict-of-interest situations between different parties. Lee was certainly underappreciated and underpaid!” “Always looked good in gold spandex and a feather boa!”

Kyle Rodrigues

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Director of Sales & Pop-Up Shops, Johnny Cupcakes; Age 30; Education: Framingham State University (BA)

Among her myriad roles — both with ‘the world’s first T-shirt bakery’ and volunteering in the community — Rodrigues travels the country monthly to conferences and events, working to inspire companies and organizations to collaborate with the Johnny Cupcakes brand.

Kyle Rodrigues

Kyle Rodrigues      Photo by Rachel Elliot Photography

What did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted nothing more than to be a fashion designer, so it’s pretty wild that, after working up the ranks in industries ranging from toys to candles to web development, I finally landed myself in the most fun clothing company there ever could be.

Who inspires you, and why? My parents are my biggest inspiration. Both of my parents worked so hard and taught me the value of that at a young age. Work to live!

What’s been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? Landing my job. I was ready for a change and reached out to the owner of the company, Johnny, via e-mail. I gave him my ‘Portuguese pitch’ as to why I would be an excellent employee, a hard worker making his life easier, and why he should hire me. Fifteen minutes later, he FaceTimed me, and the rest is history. I always tell others to put yourself out there because the worst that happens is you are in the same spot you are right now, and the best is getting everything you ever wanted. Also, this past year, after hearing of the devastation in Australia from the fires, I sent my team an e-mail to see if we could produce a pre-order to help raise funds for relief efforts. After two weeks, we sold more than 1,000 T-shirts and raised $100,000 AUD to donate between three charities.

What person, past or present, would you like to have lunch with, and why? It would be my grandmother so I could tell her about visiting her village and how much I love her.

What’s your favorite hangout or activity in Western Mass., and why? It used to be going out for karaoke and dancing with my best friend and sister, Erikka, at the Huke Lau. RIP Huke!

What fictional character do you relate to most, and why? I relate to Leslie Knope of Parks and Recreation the most, professionally and personally. She is always the most positive through adversity, and she is a fiercely devoted friend.

What three words best describe you? Optimistic, outgoing, resilient.

Evan Ross

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Amherst Town Councilor; Lecturer, UMass Amherst; Age 32; Education: Elon University (BS), UMass Amherst (MS)

Ross, a lecturer at UMass since 2014, won a seat on the Amherst Town Council at age 31 and, in his first two years, has focused on developing efforts to increase housing production and density in order to increase affordability and environmental sustainability.

Evan Ross

Evan Ross     Photo by Greg Bernier

What did you want to be when you grew up? As a child, all I wanted was to be a paleontologist. I was inspired by Laura Dern’s heroics in Jurassic Park and wanted to follow in her footsteps. Later, as I learned what paleontologists actually do, I was less interested.

What’s been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? Winning a seat on Amherst’s inaugural Town Council. Prior to my campaign, I hadn’t really engaged with local politics. I entered the race with very little name recognition or existing support. But I worked hard, engaged voters, built relationships, organized volunteers, and in the end was the top vote getter in my district.

Who inspires you, and why? I’m inspired by the public officials who broke through barriers and overcame systemic oppression to win their seats. I’m especially inspired by those who ran unapologetically on their identities, instead of away from them. These include Danica Roem, the first openly trans person elected to the Virginia General Assembly, beating an incumbent who had authored anti-trans legislation; Deval Patrick, Massachusetts’ first black governor, who grew up the son of a single mother in a public housing project on the South Side of Chicago; and our local Alex Morse, the youngest and first openly gay mayor of Holyoke, who made his LGBT identity an asset instead of a liability. As an openly gay elected official, their successes motivate and inspire me.

What fictional character do you relate to most, and why? On days when I’m feeling motivated and ready to get things done in local government, I harness my inner Leslie Knope from Parks and Recreation. Other days I feel more like Selina Meyer in Veep. But most days, I’m really just the little boy in Jurassic Park, incessantly annoying you with nerd talk until you walk away (and, yes, that’s two Jurassic Park references).

What actor would play you in a movie about your life? Considering mannerisms and my past hairstyles, I think Liza Minnelli would be an appropriate choice. But to be honest, the role is beneath her.

Amanda Sbriscia

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Holyoke Community College; Executive Director, HCC Foundation; Age 35; Education: Cedar Crest College (BA), Drexel University (MA)

Sbriscia’s many leadership roles range from overseeing a $13.4 million endowment and more than $250,000 in scholarship awards annually to supervising completion of the HCC MGM Culinary Arts Institute and other capital projects.

Amanda Sbriscia

Amanda Sbriscia

What did you want to be when you grew up? Katie Couric. I wanted to be the Today show anchorperson. I even attended a summer camp for electronic media when I was in high school.

What’s been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? Being a small part of providing financial support to students so they can achieve their dreams of a college education. Ultimately, it’s the donor who creates life-changing opportunities. But in my professional capacity, it has been an honor to facilitate the creation of scholarships, programs, and initiatives that make such a lasting and far-reaching difference.

What do you do for fun? Take long-weekend trips with my husband, Keith. Saratoga Springs is a favorite. Also, dance in the kitchen to absolutely any song. My go-to Pandora stations include Hip Hop BBQ, Classic Rock, 90s Pop, and ABBA Radio. They rarely disappoint!

How do you relieve stress? Running will always shake off a bad day, lift a mood, and change my perspective. Also, Netflix.

What’s your favorite hangout or activity in Western Mass., and why? A run on the Norwottuck Rail Trail followed by ice cream at Flayvors of Cook Farm (or ice cream at any spot in Western Mass., really). And though outdoor running will always have my heart, so does CrossFit SVG. The sense of community it provides is extraordinary, and as a result, I’ve come to realize that every one of us is stronger than we think — physically and emotionally.

What person, past or present, would you like to have lunch with, and why? All four of my grandparents, together. I don’t know that I fully appreciated the stories they told when I was younger. I’m blessed to still have both grandmothers, but how great it would be to have them all in the same room again.

What fictional character do you relate to most, and why? Joy from the movie Inside Out. Joy is the engine. She keeps everyone moving and happy, which I try to do. She’s optimistic but, in many ways, also the least flexible. But at least she’s got great hair.

Melissa Sippel

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Director of Enrollment Marketing, Bay Path University; Police Officer, West Springfield Police Department; Age 28; Education: Bay Path University (BS, MS)

In addition to her role at Bay Path, overseeing a wide array of undergraduate and graduate outreach efforts, Sippel has a passion for public service. Among other roles, she’s a part-time police officer in West Springfield and president of the Springfield chapter of Zonta International, which promotes women’s rights through service and advocacy.

Melissa Sippel

Melissa Sippel   Photo by Leah Martin Photography

What did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be the person who drives the luggage truck at the airport. That is the first job I remember wanting. I think I figured, if I worked at the airport, I could fly any time I wanted — and guarantee my luggage would be on the plane! I am sure it stemmed from my love of flying and traveling, a love I still have today.

What three words best describe you? Empathetic, creative, enthusiastic.

What’s been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? I am very proud of the Excellence Awards from the Council for Advancement and Support of Education that my team has won over the years, including two gold awards. I am especially proud of the award we received for a video that I helped produce. It was a point-of-view video of a college student’s experience, and I wore a GoPro camera on my forehead to film it.

What do you do for fun? I love to craft. I make crafts out of things people would otherwise throw away. I like taking what someone would consider trash and turning it into something beautiful.

What are you passionate about? Crafting. Vegetarianism. Bowties. Documentaries. Community service. Recycling. Social justice. My girlfriend. And world peace.

Who inspires you, and why? My grandmother. She is my best friend and my biggest cheerleader. She is kind, fair, and compassionate. She has been through a lot but has accomplished so much over her lifetime, even at times when it was not easy for women to succeed.

What person, past or present, would you like to have lunch with, and why? My grandfather, who passed away a few months before I was born. My family always says I am a lot like him, and I would love to have a conversation with him to see what they mean, and to show him who I have become.

Saba Shahid

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Chief Smiling Officer, the Art Cart; President, ACS Regulatory Consulting Age 28; Education: Quinnipiac University (MS)

Shahid has grown the Art Cart — a creativity and movement program for people with Parkinson’s disease — into a national company, traveling to various communities to reinstill confidence in patients’ abilities by teaching them to work with their symptoms instead of feeling burdened by them.

Saba Shahid

Saba Shahid

What did you want to be when you grew up? A maxillofacial surgeon, to spread smiles by fixing children’s cleft conditions. I was accepted to medical school but decided not to go, as I had just started the Art Cart and found that I can use my passion for art and medicine to help improve symptoms of movement disorders such as Parkinson’s. I feel blessed to see patients smile when they see improvements in their symptoms from the programming we offer.

What’s been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? Authoring the Let’s Combat Micrographia interactive workbook series, which helps those living with Parkinson’s disease improve their symptom of micrographia. It is the only book of its kind and is currently sold worldwide in English and Spanish.

What are you passionate about? Spreading as many smiles as I possibly can. Smiles are contagious and are understood in any language. They help break barriers and form bridges. The foundation of the Art Cart is focused on disorders that list the inability to smile as a symptom. We start every Smile Through Art workshop with 30 seconds of forcing a smile to spread happiness and exercise the facial muscles. Try it!

How do you relieve stress? Working full-time and being a full-time, stay-at-home mom can get exhausting. The Peloton has made relieving stress convenient and allows me to put my best foot forward every day.

What person, past or present, would you like to have lunch with, and why? I would love to have lunch with Priyanka Chopra, who is involved in so many inspirational projects.

Who inspires you, and why? My 1-year-old son, Aayan Ali, inspires me. He is so smart. His curiosity and drive to learn motivate me to do more and go one step further every day to teach him to give 150% to every opportunity that comes his way. Also, my husband, Chad, is one of the most inspirational and kindhearted people I know. I admire his drive and ambition. He keeps me on my toes, and I am forever grateful for our journey together.

Lenny Underwood

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Owner, Underwood Photography and Upscale Socks; Age 36; Education: American International College (BA, MPA)

Underwood has owned Underwood Photography for 15 years and Upscale Socks for three years. Through his charity work with Upscale Socks, 220 pairs of socks were donated to Springfield elementary schools, and 150 pairs were donated to Square One. He also established a $500 scholarship for a student at Springfield Central High School. Meanwhile, Underwood has received several awards, including the 2019 Game Changer Award from the Springfield Thunderbirds, the 2019 Changemaker Award from Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services, and the 2017 100 Men of Color Award in Hartford, Conn. He is a deacon at St. John’s Congregational Church, a board member with Way Finders, and serves on the Brianna Fund for Children with Physical Disabilities steering committee and the Love Fusion Singles & Couples Conference planning committee.

Lenny Underwood

What did you want to be when you grew up? An attorney — until I worked in the litigation department one summer at MassMutual as a 10th-grader. It was an eye-opening experience that made me rethink my life plans.

What three words best describe you? Creative, motivated, focused.

What’s been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? Recently, I have been invited to guest speak in various spaces, judge competitions, offer consultation to aspiring small businesses, receive prestigious awards (like this one), and also compete and win on Wheel of Fortune with my friend in 2018.

What are you passionate about? Health and wellness. In addition to my businesses, I am also a certified personal trainer.

What do you do for fun? In my photography business, I have the priviliege to work at many fun events over the course of the week. There is usually great food, great people, and great music!

How do you relieve stress? Prayer and meditation, exercising, and, recently the sauna.

What person, past or present, would you like to have lunch with, and why? Probably Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He accomplished so much at such a young age, and he is still widely celebrated across the world.

Kimberly Williams

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Owner, Ja’Duke Inc.; Age 36; Education: Fitchburg University (BS)

Williams started Ja’Duke Center for the Performing Arts as a part-time dance studio when she was a junior in college. Hoping for 30 to 40 students at first to cover the rent of her basement space, she had 125 enroll the first year. The studio eventually moved to an 8,000-square-foot space, where almost 400 singing, acting, and dance students now perform in up top 10 shows per year — in a state-of-the-art theater completed last fall. These days, Williams oversees several different branches of the Ja’Duke business — Ja’Duke Center for the Performing Arts, Ja’Duke Preschool, Ja’Duke Theater, Ja’Duke Driving School, and Ja’Duke Backdrops.

Kimberly Williams

Kimberly Williams   Photo by Kortney Fernette at Sugarloaf Studios

What’s been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? I own Ja’Duke Inc. with my father, who is an incredible entrepreneur and businessman. For as long as I can remember, he has wanted to build a theater. This was something I never thought would be possible, but this past year, we took a risk and built a 540-seat theater. This was terrifying and exhilarating all at the same time. It is incredible to know we did something that very few people have done or will ever do, and we did it through so much hard work, dedication, persistence, and patience.

What goal do you set for yourself at the star of each day? Be grateful! I have so many blessings, and I want to make sure I appreciate them every day over and over again.

What three words best describe you? Patient, energetic, crazy.

What are you passionate about? People!

What’s your favorite hangout or activity in Western Mass., and why? I love Flayvors of Cook Farm in Hadley. We take our kids there for ice cream and to see the animals. They love it, and the ice cream is delicious!

How do you relieve stress? Every day, I work out at F45 Training in Hadley. This is an incredible de-stresser for me and allows me to do one thing for me each day. The workouts are planned, and they have trainers on site, so it is the one time each day someone else is telling me what to do.

What will your work colleagues say at your funeral? She never stopped until the day she died — but the one thing I do know is she loved me.

Marcus Williams

By
40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Springfield City Councilor; Actor; Partnerships Associate, Proteus Fund; Age 31; Education: Boston College (BA)

Marcus Williams

Marcus Williams   Photo by Leah Martin Photography

Williams works for the Proteus Fund, a full-service philanthropic organization that brings together like-minded partners to build effective social movements and create lasting change. He’s also serving his third term as a Springfield city councilor, this time as vice president. Meanwhile, he rediscovered his passion for acting, and in 2019 alone, he booked roles on Hulu’s Castle Rock; the film Love, Weddings & Other Disasters, starring Diane Keaton; and commercials for workforce-innovation giant Kronos and Bose audio equipment.

What three words best describe you? Driven, principled, destined.

What’s been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? I am the youngest person of color to be elected to the Springfield City Council and led the charge for the city to hire its first chief Diversity officer. I also authored the ordinance to regulate mobile food trucks in the city for the first time, ending an eight-year stalemate. In my part-time acting career, I have been cast in three motion pictures (New York, I Love You; Love, Weddings & Other Disasters; and Frills), three commercials (AT&T, Kronos, and Bose), and two television shows (Castle Rock and City on a Hill). In my time as a grant writer, I have secured more than $6 million from local, state, and federal sources to combat issues such as intimate-partner violence and housing instability in my community.

What do you do for fun? Fun is always needed. To take a load off, I typically enjoy playing competitive tennis when the weather permits or spending time with friends playing either spades or video or board games.

How do you relieve stress? I separate myself from my phone and social media and focus on being present in the moment in whatever I choose to do. A good day of pampering also never hurts, from a clean haircut to getting a pedicure — all bases covered.

What person, past or present, would you like to have lunch with, and why? My grandmother comes to mind immediately. She was the best grandmother anyone could ask for and would give her last to make sure I was first. I would want her to know that she had a lasting impact on my life and that the family misses her humor, cooking, attention to detail, and, most of all, love.

What goal do you set for yourself at the start of each day? To let go and let God.