Month: October 2020

Business Talk Podcast Special Coverage

WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn. — The Connecticut Airport Authority (CAA) announced that enhancements have been made to the on-airport testing program at Bradley International Airport in response to strong interest from the traveling public.

As the travel industry navigates the complexity surrounding COVID-19, the CAA has taken strong, proactive measures to ensure the continued well-being of passengers at Bradley. This includes the introduction of a COVID-19 testing site, which was opened in late September to further enhance safety and convenience.

Since the announcement, airport COVID-19 testing sites have started opening across the country, and airports are continuously evolving to better understand the demand for such services as travel continues to fluctuate nationwide.

In the weeks since opening the COVID-19 testing site at Bradley, the testing location has been expanded to enhance privacy and improve passenger flow, and additional staff have been hired by Genesys Diagnostics to respond to the heavy demand and to decrease wait times during peak periods. In addition, Genesys has unveiled a new, automated registration and notification process, allowing passengers to seamlessly register and receive results in one convenient portal.

Due to the heavy demand, test results will now typically be available within 72 hours of testing. As is common with other labs across the state and nation, test-result time frames can vary based on demand. There is no guarantee on timing of results.

Since the launch of the service on Sept. 30, approximately 4,000 individuals have taken advantage of these services at Bradley International Airport.

While pre-registration is not required, passengers wishing to use the service are strongly encouraged to do so by visiting www.gdilabs.com. Passengers are encouraged to check their health insurance to confirm coverage associated with COVID-19 testing. Those not utilizing insurance may opt to self-pay, and tests are available for $125 each.

The Connecticut Airport Authority may announce details regarding an additional drive-thru testing site in one of the airport parking lots in the near future. This mobile site will be available to airport passengers as well as members of the general public.

BusinessTalk with Nate Costa

By BusinessWest Staff October 26, 2020

We are excited to announce that BusinessWest, in partnership with Living Local, has launched a new podcast series, BusinessTalk. Each episode will feature in-depth interviews and discussions with local industry leaders, providing thoughtful perspectives on the Western Massachuetts economy and the many business ventures that keep it running during these challenging times.

Episode 36: Oct. 26, 2020

George talks with Nate Costa, president of the Springfield Thunderbirds

BusinessWest Editor George O’Brien talks with Nate Costa, president of the Springfield Thunderbirds. The two discuss the fate of the upcoming season and the factors that will determine if, when, and under what circumstances games might again be played. They also discuss the importance of the team to the ongoing efforts to revitalize Springfield, and how the Thunderbirds stay relevant during this ultra-challenging time. It’s must listening, so join us on BusinessTalk.

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Women of Impact Event Tickets

By BusinessWest Staff October 24, 2020

Women of Impact

Women of Impact Tickets

Join us as we celebrate this year’s Women of Impact!

Women of Impact Awards:
Thursday, December 7, 2023, 5:45 P.M.
Sheraton Springfield,
One Monarch Place, Springfield MA 01115
Tickets $95 per person, reserved tables of 10 are available.
RSVP by November 20, 2023

Women of Impact Tickets:

STCC Receives $662,000 in State Grants for COVID-19 Relief

SPRINGFIELD — The state awarded Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) two grants totaling nearly $662,000 for COVID-19 relief, STCC President John Cook announced.

The money will be used to help keep the campus safe during the pandemic, compensate faculty for their work developing online courses, and boost student aid, Cook said at a news conference at STCC. He spoke from Building 20, where check-in stations are set up to screen students, staff, and faculty who arrive on the campus.

Joined by state Reps. Carlos Gonzalez, Angelo Puppolo Jr., and Bud Williams, Cook thanked the lawmakers for their support. “We are really thrilled that you can be here, that you can share in this award with us, and that you continue to champion for STCC and for public higher education.”

Heriberto “Herbie” Flores, president and CEO of Partners for Community, also joined the event to show support for STCC.

STCC received a Higher Education COVID-19 Response Grant from the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief Fund (GEER) in the amount of $502,425 to support the college’s COVID-19 response efforts. Separately, the college received a $159,266 GEER grant to support emergency need-based assistance for students who have been affected by COVID-19.

Cook said the GEER grants totaling $661,691 would be used specifically for campus sanitizing, COVID-19 testing, student aid, faculty compensation for online course development, and personal protective equipment.

“This funding will allow us to address critical needs that we are facing during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Cook said. “We are grateful to Gov. Charles Baker and Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito for their support. The grants will help keep our campus safe and support our students as they pursue their goal of obtaining an education and transforming their lives. We also are pleased to use part of the grant to compensate our talented faculty who have done a tremendous job preparing their online classes.”

To reduce the risk of illness posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, STCC is offering online classes with a mix of low-density, on-campus labs for health and STEM programs this academic year. Faculty trained this past summer for online instruction and have been developing courses.

In a letter to Cook announcing the grant, Baker and Polito said, “we understand how challenging these past months have been as you and your staff and faculty have worked tirelessly to continue providing academic opportunities and additional supports for your students. Thank you for your commitment to student success, and for finding creative and thoughtful solutions to maintaining your course offerings and services without compromising the health and safety of your students, staff, faculty, and the surrounding community.”

Digital Divide Virtual Forum Highlights Regional Equity Issues

SPRINGFIELD — State Sen. Eric Lesser and Dress for Success Western Massachusetts hosted a virtual forum this week on the ‘digital divide,’ focusing on the fight to plug in disconnected cities and towns across the Commonwealth as well as the prevalence of income-related issues with internet access.

Lesser and Margaret Tantillo, executive director of Dress for Success Western Massachusetts, were joined by experts and advocates in the region to discuss the high-level impact that broadband access has on remote learning, job training, and telehealth, as well as funding challenges in bridging the digital divide. The group stressed the transformative impacts of reliable, high-speed broadband service in unserved, underserved, and urban communities. The entire program can be viewed on Facebook by clicking here.

“I do think that it’s times of challenge that bring out the biggest opportunities,” Lesser said. “If we all work together to overcome COVID-19, learn where the gaps are, and make the big choices and decisions to close those gaps, I do feel confident that we can end up in a more equitable place and we can have a future where we do close the digital divide.”

During the forum, Tantillo also highlighted the Digital Literacy Task Force launched by Dress for Success Western Massachusetts back in June that strives to help guide women through their professional careers and provide resources needed for online meetings or learning. “Right now there are some resources,” she said, “but people don’t know how to access them or where to go.”

Thunderbirds Foundation Donates $15,000 to Rays of Hope

SPRINGFIELD — Springfield Thunderbirds President Nathan Costa presented a check for $15,000 to the Baystate Health Foundation for Rays of Hope from proceeds raised by the sale of specialty pink jerseys worn at the 2020 Pink in the Rink night in March.

Each year since the team’s inception, the Thunderbirds have held a Pink in the Rink night to benefit Rays of Hope, complete with participation by breast-cancer survivors, pink ice, and pink specialty jerseys. The event has sold out each of the past four seasons, and has become a signature event in the area to raise awareness. This past season’s event took place on March 7, and was again sold out, with a capacity crowd of 6,793.

“We at the Thunderbirds have been a dedicated supporter of the Baystate Health Foundation and the Rays of Hope from inception, and it’s with great admiration for the fight against breast cancer that we are able to make yet another significant contribution to the cause in what has been a very difficult year,” Costa said. “We look forward to continuing this special partnership for years to come.”

The Thunderbirds Foundation has contributed more than $80,000 to the Baystate Health Foundation and the Rays of Hope through the proceeds of specialty jersey auctions from the annual Pink in the Rink night.

During the check-presentation ceremony, Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno noted that “we all have family and friends who have battled this challenge. My administration is proud to stand with those affected and Baystate Medical Center in continuing to raise funds to cure and beat this medical challenge.”

Though it may look a little different than in past years, the Rays of Hope Walk & Run Toward the Cure of Breast Cancer will continue in a hybrid model for 2020. Supporters are encouraged to walk or run anywhere, anytime, during the month of the October, ending with a Parade of Hope on Sunday, Oct. 25 for all registered participants.

State Temporarily Pauses Indoor Ice-skating Operations for Two Weeks

BOSTON — Due to rising cases of COVID-19 connected to indoor ice hockey, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health issued a new public-health order prohibiting indoor ice rinks and ice-skating facilities from operating from Oct. 23 to Nov. 7.

This order is in response to multiple COVID-19 clusters occurring at rinks throughout the state following games, practices, and tournaments. Neighboring states, including New Hampshire, have enacted similar temporary restrictions regarding indoor ice hockey.

There have been at least 30 clusters of COVID-19 associated with organized ice-hockey activities involving residents from more than 60 municipalities in Massachusetts. Each of these included two or more confirmed or probable COVID-19 cases, totaling 108 confirmed cases.

This pause will allow for the development of stronger COVID-19 protocols to further protect players, families, coaches, arena staff, and other participants, as well as communities surrounding hockey rinks.

Current protocols include limitations on the number of people allowed in an arena, social distancing, and other precautions. College and professional programs are exempt from this order.

Amherst Area Chamber Announces A+ Award Winners to Be Honored on Nov. 12

By BusinessWest Staff October 22, 2020

AMHERST — The Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce 2020 A+ Awards Show will be held virtually and broadcast live from Hadley Farms Meeting House on Thursday, Nov. 12, with PeoplesBank serving as presenting sponsor.

Each year, the chamber gives A+ Awards to individuals and organizations that enrich the life of the community through their work in education, business, and civic engagement in Amherst, Belchertown, Hadley, Leverett, Pelham, Shutesbury, Sunderland, and the Pioneer Valley as a whole.

“In this year, it feels more important than ever to recognize our leaders who have led differently and pivoted to create new economic opportunities during the most challenging of times we will likely experience in our lifetimes,” said Claudia Pazmany, executive director of the Amherst Area Chamber. “These are the heroes of the time, and they deserve our recognition.”

The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes Betsey McInnis for her leadership of 19 years as a board member and lead volunteer of Family Outreach of Amherst and the lasting impact her volunteer work will have on future generations.

The Leader in Innovation Award recognizes Phoenix Fruit Farm of Belchertown for being instrumental in cultivating relationships with other local businesses to improve the economic climate of Belchertown.

The Leader in Sustainability Award recognizes Kestrel Land Trust of Amherst for its work to create a sustainable Amherst area by preserving 583 acres while celebrating 50 years serving as a major force in forest land protection, farmland conservation, and expanding outdoor recreational space in Amherst and throughout Hampshire County.

The Young Professional Award honors Ash Crawford for being defined as the ‘epitome of innovation and entrepreneurship’ in the Amherst area. As director of Operations at Amherst Coffee, Crawford helped the business adapt to the new reality of COVID-19 through an online marketplace, a safe and efficient takeout service, and a weekly sidewalk bar.

The Community Service Award honors Mercedes-Benz of Springfield for its outreach efforts through its Driven by Community platform, through which the lives and jobs of the Amherst-area community benefited greatly, especially at this difficult time.

The Chamber MVP is Lisa Eugin of Encharter Insurance and an Amherst Area Chamber ambassador, who embodies the mission of the chamber as a convener, connector, and catalyst for business and community development.

New this year is the COVID Hero, a nonprofit or individual who provided essential support services, went above and beyond, and took initiative to put others before self to benefit the greater good. Live voting will take place to choose a winner from the following organizations and individuals: Amherst Survival Center, Arizona Pizza, Bistro 63, Mary Beth Ogulewicz of the Amherst Senior Center, Rebekah Demling of ARPS PGO, and Wheelhouse Catering.

Also new this year, David Jeffway, owner of Sharper Vision, will create video tributes for each awardee.

A virtual access pass to the view the live awards show costs $20, or a $50 VIP package includes the virtual access pass, a $25 Amherst-area gift certificate, a hard copy of the 2020 A+ Awards Journal, and sponsor gifts. Registration is open, and A+ Award dinner sponsorships and ads are still available for the virtual extravaganza; for more information, visit amherstarea.com. E-mail Pazmany at [email protected] with any inquiries.

American International College to Host Mural Honoring Mason Square Resident

By BusinessWest Staff October 22, 2020

SPRINGFIELD — American International College (AIC) will honor a Springfield individual known to residents in Mason Square as Preacherman with a mural on the college’s maintenance building located at the corner of State and Reed streets. Born Randolph Lester, he was a well-known community member who was given the Preacherman moniker as he was often seen walking around the Mason Square area carrying a Bible.

Collaborating on the construction of the mural is Britt Ruhe, the founder of Fresh Paint Springfield, a creative initiative in 2019 that invited artists to paint building walls downtown. Ruhe is the director of Commonwealth Murals and manages the Community Muralist Institute, featuring individual mural installations that meaningfully engage and uplift communities.

AIC alumnus Andrew Cade, president of the Springfield Cultural Council and senior vice president of the Urban League of Springfield, supported the project with a grant from the Springfield Cultural Council and other resources to assist with the mural.

“The artist selected to paint the mural of Preacherman is Greta McLain,” Cade said. “She has extensive mural-making experience, exploring the ways that art can bring communities together, the power of visual language to activate voice, and the potential of art as a vehicle for hands-on organizing and educating. The mural will provide vibrancy to the neighborhood and tell the story of one of Springfield’s most iconic citizens.”

McLain created the “Home, Here” mural on the Chestnut Towers parking garage on Dwight Street.

“As an institution of higher education, AIC is pleased to partner with the Springfield Cultural Council and host the mural,” AIC President Vince Maniaci said. “The values of access, opportunity, and diversity that are central to the college align well with the Cultural Council, Commonwealth Murals, and the artist’s vision for this endeavor.”

Mural installation is expected to be completed by Saturday, Oct. 24.

MCLA Adopts Test-blind Policy Through Fall 2022

By BusinessWest Staff October 22, 2020

NORTH ADAMS — In support of Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts’ ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and in recognition of the public health crisis brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, the MCLA Office of Admission will be waiving the SAT/ACT testing requirement for students who apply for fall 2021 and fall 2022. MCLA will also pilot a test-blind/test-free policy for fall 2021 applicants.

“We do not want students to worry about sitting for the tests if it is unsafe for them to do so,” MCLA Director of Admission Kayla Hollins said. “As an office dedicated to creating a clear and transparent college admission process for students, the next logical step in our efforts toward an equitable process is to waive standardized-test scores. We decided to take it a step further, after months of data collection and research, to become test-blind/test-free.”

National and institutional data point to high-school work being indicative of student success in college and a more equitable means of assessment than standardized-test scores. For many years, research studies have found that wealthy students have significant advantages through the college-application process. A 2013 study from researchers at the University of Pennsylvania and University of Southern California, for example, found that the difference in SAT scores between high- and low-income students was twice as large among black students compared to white students.

MCLA’s application is free, and students are considered for merit-based scholarships at the same time as they submit their application. MCLA has an early-action deadline of Dec. 1. Those who apply must submit their official high-school transcript, including first-quarter senior grades and any transcripts for college-level courses taken, as well as a personal statement/essay. To find out more, visit mcla.edu/apply.

Davis Family Establishes Scholarship Fund Recognizing Mary Walachy

SPRINGFIELD — The Davis family has established the Joseph F. and Helen C. McGovern Scholarship Fund at the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts in honor of the Irene E. & George A Davis Foundation’s recently retired Executive Director Mary Walachy.

Walachy retired in June after serving 23 years as executive director of the family foundation, and the fund is named after Walachy’s parents, both strong advocates for education. Walachy’s father, Joseph McGovern, was an entrepreneur who owned and operated Notion Thread, a manufacturing company in West Springfield. Walachy’s mother, Helen, also worked with her husband at the company.

“We are establishing the Joseph F. and Helen C. McGovern Scholarship Fund to recognize Mary’s tireless work on behalf of the Davis Foundation and to celebrate her work in the community to advance education in the region,” Davis family representative Laurel Ferretti said. “Her efforts to make the lives of children and their families better through educational advancement is a lasting legacy she leaves for both the foundation and the community at large.”

The scholarship fund will provide resources for successful applicants studying education or social work. It will be awarded through the Community Foundation’s scholarship program, which awards approximately 1,000 scholarships to 800 students annually. The program considers academic merit and financial need in its applicant reviews. Walachy earned a master’s degree in social work and, prior to joining the Davis Foundation, served as CEO of the Mental Health Assoc.

“I am so honored by the establishment of this scholarship that lovingly will be named after my parents, for whom education was of utmost importance,” Walachy said. “In my family, our parents made it clear how important education was and that going to college was non-negotiable. They had the largest impact on my life, and I am thankful to the Davis family for recognizing me, and them, through the establishment of this scholarship.”

Walachy was hired in 1997 as the first executive director of the foundation. Under her leadership, the foundation created several signature programs, including Cherish Every Child, the nationally-recognized Reading Success by 4th Grade initiative, and the Funder Collaborative for Reading Success, as well as the establishment of Springfield Business Leaders for Education and the launch of Educare Springfield.

Convergent Photonics Partners with WNEU on Research and Development Center

CHICOPEE — Convergent Photonics, which specializes in creating and supplying high-tech lasers, announced a partnership with Western New England University to establish a research and development center and strengthen the school’s education program with the help of a $2.5 million state grant, the Republican reported.

The project is the fourth of its kind statewide and the first in Western Mass., and Springfield Technical Community College will also be involved. The money comes from the state’s Massachusetts Manufacturing Innovation Initiative.

“It is such an amazing project. I’m so glad they picked Chicopee for it,” Mayor John Vieau said during an announcement event at Convergent’s Chicopee headquarters on Tuesday. “This will give them an advanced labor force with skilled workers.”

According to the Republican, the funding will allow the company and WNEU to purchase equipment so each can create a high-power semiconductor laser lab that will be used to support the development of innovative technologies and the education of engineering students who want to go into the field of photonics.

United Way Announces Socially Distant Trick-or-treating Event in Springfield

SPRINGFIELD — In cooperation with the office of Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno and Colebrook Realty Services Inc., United Way of Pioneer Valley will host a drive-thru, socially distant trick-or-treating event on Saturday, Oct. 31 between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the TD Bank parking lot in downtown Springfield.

Families with children 12 and under, accompanied by an adult, are welcome to attend, and 3,000 bags of candy, toys, and information on community resources will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Everyone must remain in their vehicles to ensure safety.

“We are glad to be a part of the mayor’s efforts to keep our community’s children happy during an extremely difficult year,” said Paul Mina, president and CEO of United Way of Pioneer Valley.

Added Sarno, “thanks again to Paul Mina. We can always count on our United Way to bring some holiday cheer to our children and families.”

More information is available at uwpv.org/boo-bash, and donations can be made at uwpv.org/donate.

Carr Hardware and Customers Donate PPE to Berkshire Schools

PITTSFIELD — Carr Hardware announced the results of the “Round-up for the Schools” campaign that, in combination with the company’s match, was able to donate more than $8,500 worth of personal protective equipment (PPE) to three local school districts.

Carr Hardware started the program at the end of August, offering customers the option to round up their purchases to the nearest dollar, and Carr would match 100% of the total collected. Carr Hardware also had change-collection jars stationed at all locations for customers to donate. With the Carr Hardware match and the generosity of customers, the company purchased much-needed PPE, including masks, hand sanitizer, and commercial disinfectant sprayers to public schools in North Adams, Lee, and Pittsfield.

“We are so thankful to our community partners at Carr Hardware for supporting our schools,” said North Adams Superintendent Barbara Malkas.

Carr Hardware President Bart Raser added that “we are a community business that believes in giving back; it’s just part of our core culture. Our kids and schools need our help more than ever, and school safety is paramount. We are thrilled to be in a position to do our part and appreciative of the generosity of our customers who supported our teachers and our students.”

Lee Superintendent Michael Richard noted that “the round-up campaign that Carr Hardware engaged in this year was amazing. The support dedicated to our community, and others in the area, is remarkable. The efforts of Carr Hardware is what distinguishes their stores from others; they truly care about the communities that they serve.”

Added Pittsfield Superintendent Jason McCandless, “the Pittsfield Public Schools are so grateful to our neighbors at Carr Hardware for supporting our schools in yet another way through the round-up program. Carr Hardware has been there for the Pittsfield Public Schools and its students in so many ways over the decades, and we thank the Raser family and the whole Carr Hardware family for once again being there for the children of Pittsfield.”

Carr Hardware is working on plans to hold another campaign in November.

2020 Western Mass Developers Conference Slated for Oct. 21

SPRINGFIELD — The Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council (EDC) invites the community to join its annual developers conference, presented by MassMutual. The 2020 Western Mass Developers Conference will feature a keynote address from Gov. Charlie Baker and a welcome address from Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, and will connect business leaders, developers, real-estate professionals, site selectors, economic-development professionals, and public officials from Western Mass. and across the Northeast.

The conference will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 21 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Attendees can register for free and see the full agenda and list of speakers at developwesternmass.vfairs.com.

The event will be hosted on a 3D virtual event platform and produced by Rise Event Production. With more than 30 regional speakers, the conference is aimed at connecting those who want to learn about the exciting development opportunities available, as well as highlight the region’s assets as an ideal place to invest in and launch and grow businesses. The presenting sponsor is MassMutual, and other sponsors include Westfield Bank, Westmass Area Development Corp., Lisa Oleksak-Sullivan, Westover Airport, Baystate Health, Winn Development, Eversource, Holyoke Community College, Comcast, Colebrook Realty Services Inc., MassDevelopment, the O’Connell Companies, and the CCRC.

“The Developers Conference will showcase an abundance of benefits to working and living in Western Massachusetts,” said Rick Sullivan, president and CEO of the EDC. “Western Mass. offers a competitive cost of doing business and an excellent quality of life. Our region is rich in higher education, local food sources, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Western Mass. is the place to live, work, and play; this conference shines a spotlight on that.”

Baker added that, “as Massachusetts continues to face a housing shortage, our administration remains focused on making the zoning reforms and targeted investments necessary to support growth across the state. We are proud to partner with organizations like the Economic Development Council of Western Mass. to drive housing production in every region of the Commonwealth.”

The 2020 Western Mass Developers Conference has six sessions on the agenda, in addition to the keynote address from Baker and a welcome address from Sarno.

“The 2020 Western Mass. Developers Conference is the opportunity for businesses, developers, economic-development officials, and other leaders to connect, learn, and invest in Western Mass.,” said Ann Burke, vice president of the EDC. “The 3D virtual platform will provide conference attendees the opportunity to visit vendor booths and meet with officials, collect materials, view opportunity-zone and preferred developments, learn from industry experts, and hear about exciting projects happening here in Western Mass.”

State Sen. Eric Lesser, Dress for Success Team Up for Virtual Forum on Digital Divide

SPRINGFIELD — On Thursday, Oct. 22, state Sen. Eric Lesser and Dress for Success will host a virtual forum on the digital divide, which will cover the impacts on remote learning, telehealth, employment, and more. The event will include stakeholders from across the region and will focus on how the pandemic has exposed the digital divide in the Commonwealth — in Western Mass. in particular.

Joining Lesser will be Margaret Tantillo, executive director of Dress for Success; Cristina Huebner Torres, vice president, Research and Population Health Programs for Caring Health Center; Henry Thomas, president and CEO of the Urban League of Springfield; Dan Warwick, superintendent of Springfield Public Schools; Jeff Cady, general manager of Crossroads Fiber; Kevin Lynn, executive director of MassHire Springfield Career Center; and Shirley Bloomfield, CEO of the Rural Broadband Assoc.

Attendees can register and participate by clicking here, and can also view the event at twitter.com/ericlesser or facebook.com/ericlesserma.

September Home-sales Numbers Point to Robust Activity

SPRINGFIELD — The Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley released September statistics on the sales of single-family homes in the region, painting a picture of a sellers’ market.

Sales are up 6.9% from 553 in September 2019 to 591 in September 2020. Median price is up 15.2% from $230,000 in September 2019 to $265,000 in September 2020.

Inventory of available property is down 55.8% from 1,728 homes for sale in September 2019 to 763 homes for sale in September 2020. Supply is down 54.6% from 3.5 months of supply at the current rate of sale by the end of September 2019 to 1.6 months of supply at the current rate of sale by the end of September 2020. Days on the market fell 31.8% from 56 days on the market, on average, in September 2019 to 38 days in September 2020.

Pending sales (under agreement to sell) are up 28.4% from 542 listings pending sale in September 2019 to 696 listings pending sale in September 2020.

MHA New Way Resident Paying It Forward for Area Seniors

SPRINGFIELD — “Everything comes back full circle,” said Richard Johnson, site manager at MHA’s New Way residence in Chicopee, which provides support to people with acquired brain injuries. “Back when the COVID-19 pandemic first hit, MHA was the recipient of greatly needed supplies donated by the community. It made a world of difference for our residents and the people who care for them. Now, instead of paying it back, we’re paying it forward, and John Moriarty has volunteered to help.”

On Oct. 1, Moriarty joined other community volunteers to assemble ‘COVID care packages’ containing personal-care items that can still be hard to find, especially for seniors. Then, on Oct. 3, he volunteered again to distribute the 250 care packages, one for each resident of Independence House and Costello House, two senior-living residences on Roosevelt Avenue in Springfield.

“John is really excited about paying it forward,” Johnson said. “He recently moved into his New Way residence and remembers being independent and living on his own. This project is an opportunity for him to rebuild skills he’ll need to live independently again, which is his goal. He really believes that the more you help, the more you heal.”

Each of MHA’s New Way residences is a specially designed home for four people who require specialized care but do not need to be restricted to a nursing home. Individualized New Way programming supports each resident in reclaiming abilities, developing skills, preparing for employment, and re-engaging with family, friends, and community. Living in the community instead of the institutional setting of a nursing home helps New Way residents live their best life by supporting them in achieving goals such as greater independence through skill building, community integration through social skills and natural supports, self-esteem and emotional regulation through leisure activities, and health and wellness through a whole-person approach.

Johnson, in addition to serving as a New Way site manager, is also president of a community organization called Chess Angels Promotions, which is spearheading the care-packages project. Chess Angels was established in 2019 to promote critical thinking by teaching members of the community useful skills such as financial literacy, communication, and self-empowerment through art.

“Volunteering for projects like the COVID care packages is a perfect fit for John,” Johnson explained. “At New Way, we’re working with John on writing things down as a daily routine, like for his medication, workout, and laundry. We guide and supervise him, and he’s making steady improvements. Working to help members of the community is something John feels strongly about, and assembling and distributing the COVID care packages helps so many people in so many ways.”

To find out what personal-care items were most needed and wanted, Chess Angels Promotions conducted a survey of residents at Independence House and Costello House. Survey responses indicated they wanted hand sanitizer, masks, toilet tissue, and handheld magnifying glasses. MHA ordered the masks and magnifying glasses, and the other items were provided by local elected officials. Springfield City Councilor Tracye Whitfield donated hand sanitizer, and state Sen. Bud Williams donated toilet tissue. Moriarty and other volunteers then assembled and distributed the care packages.

“The project is a way for MHA to acknowledge how much we have been helped and to pay it forward to folks who will benefit from some community spirit,” Moriarty said. “If someone does something nice for you, pay it forward and spread that positive energy in the community. Remember, everything comes back full circle.”

Massachusetts Unemployment Rate Falls in September

BOSTON — The state’s September total unemployment rate is down 1.8 percentage points at 9.6% following a revision to the August rate at 11.4%, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development announced.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ (BLS) preliminary job estimates indicate Massachusetts added 36,900 jobs in September. This follows last month’s revised gain of 62,500 jobs. Over the month, the private sector added 49,200 jobs as gains occurred in education and health services; leisure and hospitality; trade, transportation, and utilities; other services; professional, scientific, and business services; manufacturing; construction; financial activities; and information. Government added jobs over the month.

From September 2019 to September 2020, BLS estimates Massachusetts lost 351,800 jobs. Losses occurred in each of the private sectors, with the largest-percentage losses in leisure and hospitality; other services; construction; and trade, transportation, and utilities. The September unemployment rate was 1.7 percentage points above the national rate of 7.9% reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The labor force increased by 240,900 from 3,548,600 in August, as 279,000 more residents were employed and 38,000 fewer residents were unemployed over the month. Over the year, the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased by 6.8%.

The state’s labor-force participation rate — the total number of residents 16 or older who worked or were unemployed and actively sought work in the last four weeks — increased to 66.9%. Compared to September 2019, the labor-force participation rate is down by one percentage point.

Attorney Meaghan Murphy Joins Skoler, Abbott & Presser

SPRINGFIELD — Attorney Meaghan Murphy recently joined Skoler, Abbott & Presser, P.C., a labor and employment law firm serving employers in Massachusetts and Connecticut.

Murphy has more than six years of experience in general litigation and labor and employment law. She will advise clients regarding all employment-related matters, including, but not limited to, compliance with state, federal, and local laws, and discipline of employees. She will also create workplace policies for clients and represent them in various forums, including at the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, the Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities, government agencies, and in state and federal court.

“We are delighted to have Meg join our firm. She offers the experience and skill our clients expect from us,” attorney Marylou Fabbo said. “She is hardworking, passionate about her work, and dedicated to her clients.”

Murphy is a graduate of Amherst College and received her law degree from Western New England University School of Law. She was named to the Super Lawyers Rising Star list in 2018 and 2019. She has also been an active volunteer with Hampden County Big Brothers Big Sisters since 2018.

Summerlin Floors Awarded Woman-owned Business Certificate

AMHERST — Summerlin Floors has been awarded the official woman-owned business certificate from the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), the largest certifier of women-owned businesses in the U.S. and a leading advocate for women business owners and entrepreneurs.

Summerlin Floors has been busy during the COVID-19 pandemic, completing the certification process and reaching its goal of achieving the woman-owned business certificate, along with announcing a new scholarship that will be awarded to a woman of color.

To achieve WBENC certification, woman-owned businesses complete a formal documentation and site-visit process administered by one of WBENC’s 14 regional partner organizations. The WBENC certification gives woman-owned businesses the ability to compete for real-time business opportunities provided by WBENC corporate members and government agencies.

Applicants must answer pre-qualifying questions in order to determine if the minimum requirements for certification are met. To be certified, management and daily operation must be controlled by one or more women. WBENC uses a two-part process to ensure that the applicant company meets WBENC standards. This includes a thorough review of the documentation presented and a site-visit interview with the female owner or owners.

WBENC certification validates that Summerlin Floors is at least 51% owned, controlled, operated, and managed by a woman or women. Its goal is to ensure women business owners have access to the education, support, and tools they need to grow and succeed — a goal similar to that of Summerlin Floors, as Summerlin aims to expand the available opportunities that exist for students in the local community. To give back to the community and future generations, the company launched a new scholarship last month, awarding a $2,500 scholarship to a woman of color pursuing a degree in business at Greenfield Community College (GCC). For more information and to apply for this scholarship, contact the GCC Admissions Office at www.gcc.mass.edu/admissions or (413) 775-1801.

“The personal touch and culture I bring to my company is extremely important to me, and I’m grateful to be recognized for those efforts by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council,” said Ann Bronner, owner of Summerlin Floors. “This world-class woman-owned business certification will provide me with invaluable training and networking opportunities that’ll help me continue to make a positive impact on my company. We have an amazing team at Summerlin Floors, and it is a priority of mine to make sure I create the best possible environment for them.”

Excel Dryer Renews Support for Square One’s Adopt-a-Classroom Initiative

SPRINGFIELD — For the fourth consecutive year, Excel Dryer has committed an annual gift of $5,000 to support Square One’s Adopt-a-Classroom initiative.

The gift comes at a critical time as Square One recently expanded its early-education program to include full-day remote learning support for children in kindergarten through grade 5, in addition to its traditional preschool classrooms and family childcare offerings. The funds will be used to offset expenses associated with classroom supplies, meals, and professional development.

“I am a strong proponent of in-person learning, and I applaud the efforts of Square One to reopen its preschool programs back in June, with appropriate protocols in place,” said Denis Gagnon, president of Excel Dryer Inc. “However, not all children have been able to return to school in the fall, which has created additional expenses to provide these children with remote learning support.”

Square One’s Adopt-a-Classroom program is part of the agency’s Campaign for Healthy Kids, a multi-year fund-development initiative focused on the agency’s commitment to providing healthy meals, physical fitness, social-emotional well-being, and a healthy learning environment.

“Having the support of our business community is vital to our success in supporting children and families,” said Kristine Allard, vice president of Development & Communication at Square One. “We are so grateful to Denis and his team at Excel Dryer for once again recognizing the importance of our work and the need to support us financially.

“The past few months have greatly reinforced the demand for our programs and services,” she added. “With that growing demand and the unanticipated COVID-related expenses — including providing full-day support during remote learning — we have a tremendous need to expand our donor base.”

Square One currently provides early-learning services to more than 500 infants, toddlers, and school-age children each day, and family support services to 1,500 families each year, as they work to overcome the significant challenges in their lives. To make a donation, text ABC123 to 44-321, visit www.startatsquareone.org, or e-mail Allard at [email protected].

BusinessTalk with Meredith Wise

Business Talk Podcast Special Coverage

Episode 35: Oct. 19, 2020

Editor George O’Brien talks with Meredith Wise, president of the Employers Association of the Northeast

On the next installment of BusinessTalk, BusinessWest Editor George O’Brien talks with Meredith Wise, president of the Employers Association of the Northeast about the many issues and challenges facing employers — and their employees — in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The two discuss everything from how businesses can bring their employees back to the office or plant safely, to how businesses are helping their valued workers cope with the challenge of balancing life and work during this ongoing crisis. It’s must listening, so join us on BusinessTalk.

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Girls Inc. of the Valley Launches Initiative to Educate Future Women Voters

HOLYOKE — Girls Inc. of the Valley recently launched its new initiative, She Votes, with a recorded video from U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren to educate and support future women voters. The goal is to make sure every girl sees herself as a voter, knows the process, and is ready when it’s her turn.

The Girls Inc. team are experts on girls and their development, both locally and nationally. Girls Inc. of the Valley is part of a 150-year-old organization that always puts girls first, inspiring them as they grow into strong, smart, and bold women. The privilege of voting is our most powerful agent of change.

Meanwhile, only 14 states in the U.S. allow 16- and 17-year-olds to pre-register to vote, and Massachusetts is one of them. Girls Inc. of the Valley aims to pre-register as many 16- and 17-year-old girls as possible in this community-wide volunteer effort and to launch a peer fundraising campaign to support the She Votes curriculum. She Votes and Girls Inc. has received commitments from a variety of sponsors, including MassMutual, Peerless Precision, Lotus & Compass Inc., and Chikmedia. Click here to see Warren’s video.

“Girls Inc. teaches us that today’s girls are tomorrow’s leaders,” the senator said. “I want every girl in Massachusetts and across the country to know they can get out there and make their voices heard. Once you turn 16, you can pre-register to vote here in Massachusetts. You don’t have to wait until you’re 18 to be ready for the next election.”

The campaign launched earlier this week on UNICEF’s International Day of the Girl, and will last through Saturday, Oct. 24. Girls Inc. of the Valley hosted a Facebook Live event to premier the launch video from Warren and will be showing video spotlights from a variety of other influential women in politics throughout the campaign. Their goal is to highlight, through these videos, the importance of voting and having women in elected office. The She Votes campaign will take place right here in the Valley, while simultaneous media activities will take place across the U.S. and the globe.

The She Votes campaign is a bold initiative designed to significantly move the needle on providing tangible opportunities for Pioneer Valley girls to achieve academic and personal success. This initiative will help Girls Inc. of the Valley members to learn and share with their families the voting process, and be ready to become a generation of activists accelerating social change.

If interested, or have questions regarding this initiative, contact Jessica Colson at (413) 319-0011 or [email protected].

Berkshire Bank Enhances Leave for Employees Experiencing Gender-based Violence

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank announced enhanced protections that will provide its 1,500 employees with paid and protected leave to manage the consequences of intimate-partner violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Berkshire Bank has partnered with FreeFrom, a nonprofit creating pathways to financial security and long-term safety for survivors of gender-based violence, to increase its existing leave policies to benefit its employees.

The enhanced policy gives employees 15 days of leave a year to seek medical care, attend court proceedings, and relocate — all without missing a paycheck or depleting their accrued sick or vacation days. Since 2014, Berkshire Bank has had a domestic-violence leave policy in compliance with relevant state laws. These new enhancements go beyond the mandated requirements of state laws to offer additional support for survivors and their families impacted by this type of abuse.

Berkshire Bank employees will also now have access to FreeFrom’s Compensation Compass, a tool designed to assist survivors of domestic abuse in understanding whether they are eligible for compensation to cover some of the costs of the harm they experienced. In addition, the bank plans to collaborate with FreeFrom as part of its Survivor Safety Banking Initiative to explore how to design products and policies to better support customers that have experienced or are experiencing violence or abuse. This approach eliminates barriers to access for individuals of all backgrounds and experiences by providing innovative financial solutions, including an online account-opening experience that will help bring survivors into mainstream banking.

“Action matters, and we are proud to partner with FreeFrom to enhance our existing leave policies and provide additional resources for survivors of gender-based violence,” said Sean Gray, acting CEO and President of Berkshire Bank. “As we honor Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October, this enhancement for our employees and collaboration with FreeFrom is an important component to living our ‘Be FIRST’ vision and values while building a successful and meaningful culture where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential.”

Darcy Young Appointed to Executive Committee of the Children’s Study Home

SPRINGFIELD — The Children’s Study Home recently appointed board of directors member Darcy (Fortune) Young to its executive committee.

Young has been a member of the board since 2018, serving on the communications committee. She has consulted on everything from fundraising to digital marketing and, most recently, was part of the board effort to transition to a new executive director for the 155-year old agency.

One of her first acts as a member of the communications committee was to film and produced a promotional video for the nonprofit agency. In the video, professionals from Baystate Orthopedic Surgery Center; PeoplesBank; Gomes, DaCruz, & Tracy P.C.; and Sullivan, Hayes & Quinn explain not only the critical impact the Children’s Study Home has on youth, but also the community. The video now appears on the agency’s website home page.

“When I joined the Children’s Study Home board, I was blown away by the impact the organization has on Springfield and other communities,” Young said. “That impact stretches from the Berkshire hills to the shores of Cape Cod.”

Founded at the end of the Civil War in 1865, the Children’s Study Home is dedicated to partnering with families by providing innovative and educational programs and services that strengthen children and families, empowering them to succeed at home, within the community, and throughout life. The agency serves children, adolescents, and families with special needs throughout the Pioneer Valley, the Berkshires, and Cape Cod. The children it serves are often struggling to cope with behavioral, psychiatric, and cognitive issues related to the experiences they have survived. The staff of the Children’s Study Home assesses their needs and develops individualized service plans that foster recovery, growth, and wellness.

As a digital public relations analyst for Garvey Communication Associates Inc. (GCAi), Young has developed and implemented numerous public-relations campaigns for some of the market’s leading brands. She is also one of the only female video producers in the region. In 2018, she produced “Innovation Series,” which won an award from the Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts. Prior to joining GCAi, she was a field producer, assignment desk editor, and production assistant for FOX News and ABC News affiliates.

Young is a cum laude graduate of Westfield State University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in communication, journalism, and public & corporate communication.

TommyCar Auto Group Donates Nearly $100,000 to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

HADLEY — Carla Cosenzi and her brother, Tommy Cosenzi, owners of TommyCar Auto Group, a local company that operates five car dealerships in Western Mass., was able to make a sizable donation to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute thanks to the generous support of sponsors of the 12th annual Tom Cosenzi Driving for the Cure Charity Golf Tournament.

The event, named for their late father, drew the interest of nearly 148 golfers and 156 sponsors this year. Since the inception of the event, more than $1 million has been raised to support brain-tumor research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

The Center for Neuro-Oncology at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute/Brigham and Women’s Cancer Center, under the leadership of Director Dr. Patrick Wen, has achieved cancer breakthroughs with regard to the disease’s biology, drug design, and patient care. Wen and his research team now seek to broaden the understanding of central nervous system cancers’ molecular pathology and bolster research with a robust clinical-trial program in order to identify drugs that can target these diseases directly. Funds donated from the proceeds of the golf tournament help to achieve these goals and continue to provide renewed hope for patients.

“Each year, more than 20,000 individuals are diagnosed with primary cancers of the brain,” Carla said. “I understand what these patients and families are going through firsthand, and that’s why I work so hard each year to help raise funds to help find a cure.”

To learn more about the Tom Cosenzi Driving for the Cure Charity Golf Tournament, visit www.tomcosenzidrivingforthecure.com. Those interested in making a donation to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute may do so by clicking here.

Bay Path Launches Monthly Webinar Series Confronting Change in Higher Education

LONGMEADOW — Bay Path University announced the launch of a monthly webinar series bringing the concept of ‘leading-edge thinking’ to a deep examination of the future of higher education.

The series will open Thursday, Oct. 29 with a presentation titled “The Human Side of Innovation: Finding Joy and Meaning in Everyday Life and Work.” Presented by Elaine Dundon, bestselling author and founder of the Global Meaning Institute, it will explore the search for meaning in the context of widespread change and discuss how innovation can bring us forward as we embark upon a new normal for post-pandemic life.

The webinar series was developed by Bay Path’s Center for Higher Education Leadership and Innovative Practices (CHELIP) to further the discourse and confront the challenges surrounding the upheaval of traditional higher education.

“The higher-education sector is being transformed at a rapid and dramatic pace, creating demand for fresh, creative perspectives that can address the needs and aspirations of modern-day students and the institutions that serve them,” said Melissa Morriss-Olson, founding director of CHELIP and Bay Path’s doctoral program in Higher Education Leadership and Organizational Studies. “Through forums such as this new ‘leading-edge thinking in higher ed’ webinar series, CHELIP will cultivate and explore these new perspectives and serve as a guide for innovation and transformation in higher ed, actions so greatly needed by leaders today and in the future.”

Morriss-Olson imagines the series will best serve higher-education professionals looking for new approaches and models to help confront the sector’s pressing issues and challenges, but she also believes anyone who cares about the future of higher education, including college and university board members, parents, alumni, and donors, would be intrigued by its content.

“There is much to be learned from how the business world has used innovative thinking and entrepreneurial strategies to forge new paths,” she noted. “Given the unique organizational structures and missions at most colleges and universities, the challenge lies in learning and borrowing from other industries and making that learning fit the higher-ed culture. We’ve designed this webinar to not only inspire what might be possible, but also to provide a roadmap for how to actually get it done.”

The series is open to all. Each webinar is an hour long, with future presentations looking at topics such as student-retention challenges, racial injustice, and transforming the learning process. Click here for the full schedule and descriptions.

MassMutual Center, UMass, AIC to Co-host 2024 NCAA Men’s Ice Hockey Regional

SPRINGFIELD — The National Collegiate Athletic Assoc. (NCAA) announced that the MassMutual Center, in conjunction with American International College and UMass Amherst, has been selected to host the 2024 NCAA Division I Men’s Ice Hockey Regional, marking the first time the event has been held at the MassMutual Center.

“We are looking forward to partnering with both the University of Massachusetts and American International College as we welcome hockey fans to Western Massachusetts, where we have established a winning tradition,” said Sean Dolan, general manager of the MassMutual Center.

The two-day regional will feature four teams competing in two first-round games, with the winners advancing to the regional final the following day. The winner of the regional final will advance to the 2024 Frozen Four, which will be held at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minn.

“We are incredibly proud to partner with American International College and the MassMutual Center for a 2024 regional,” said Ryan Bamford, director of Athletics at UMass Amherst. “We have been privileged to see first-hand the passion that fans in this region have for college hockey, and we are looking forward to playing a part in hosting a first-class event in Springfield during one of the most exciting weekends on the college hockey calendar.”

In addition to Springfield, Providence, R.I. (Dunkin’ Donuts Center), Sioux Falls, S.D. (Denny Sanford PREMIER Center), and Maryland Heights, Mo. (Centene Community Ice Center) were also selected as regional sites in 2024.

“We are thrilled to be awarded the bid for the Division I Ice Hockey Regional with UMass and the MassMutual Center for 2024,” said Jessica Chapin, interim director of Athletics at AIC. “This will be a wonderful opportunity to add to the storied history of hockey in the Springfield, Massachusetts area.”

WNEU School of Law to Present Virtual Discussion on ‘Black Agenda in America Today’

SPRINGFIELD — Western New England University (WNEU) School of Law will present a virtual discussion titled “What is the Black Agenda in America Today?” on Thursday, Oct. 29 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. as part of the Wellen Davison Speaker Series.

Entrepreneur, activist, and author Elaine Brown will be discussing recent events involving policing brutality and the deaths of unarmed black citizens. Western New England University President Robert Johnson will provide the welcome address, and Professor of Law Bridgette Baldwin will serve as moderator.

Brown is executive director for the Michael Lewis Legal Defense Committee, the former minister of information and chairman of the Black Panther Party, and author of A Taste of Power: A Black Woman’s Story and the Condemnation of Little B. She is also the CEO of Oakland & the World Enterprises, a nonprofit organization dedicated to launching and sustaining for-profit businesses for ownership by formerly incarcerated and other people facing extreme barriers to economic survival. Brown attended Temple University, UCLA, Mills College, and Southwestern University School of Law and has lectured at colleges and universities around the world.

The Wellen Davison Seminar is named after former Professor of Mechanical Engineering Wellen Davison, who taught in the College of Engineering for 38 years. In 1989, the university inaugurated the Wellen Davison Seminar in his honor, and it is now an annual professional-development event striving to improve the teaching and learning environment at the university.

This 90-minute event is free and open to the public. To register in advance, click here.

OMG Roofing Promotes Adam Cincotta to Vice President

AGAWAM — OMG Roofing Products promoted Adam Cincotta to the position of vice president of the company’s Adhesives and Solar Business unit, one of three business units within OMG Roofing Products. In this role, he is responsible for developing and executing the overall business-unit strategy, including product and market development, as well as managing the business unit’s profit and loss. He reports to Peter Coyne, senior vice president and general manager of OMG Roofing Products.

Cincotta joined OMG Roofing Products in 2014 as a product manager for the OlyBond Adhesives product line. Most recently, he was director of the Adhesives and Solar Business unit. Under his leadership, the business unit has experienced strong growth driven by several successful new products for which he was responsible, including OlyBond500 Canisters, PaceCarts, and the PowerGrip solar-mount portfolio.

“Adam was selected for, and completed, the Steel Partners Cohort Program, a corporate leadership-development initiative in 2018. He is a strong contributor to OMG’s continued growth and success,” Coyne said. “We are very confident in Adam’s ability to continue to develop new opportunities for the company, and we are grateful he is part of our management team.”

Prior to joining OMG, Cincotta served in product-management and marketing roles at Newell Rubbermaid, ITW, and Danaher. He holds a bachelor’s degree in applied economics and management from Cornell University, and an MBA from the University of Massachusetts.

Elms College Establishes St. John Paul II Center for Ethics, Religion, and Culture

CHICOPEE — Elms College announced the creation of the St. John Paul II Center for Ethics, Religion, and Culture (CERC), thanks to the generous support of three foundational donors. A seven-figure naming gift from an anonymous donor and two six-figure contributions, from Carolyn Jacobs and B. John and Collette Dill and family, will help the college launch the center.

The CERC will examine the most pressing and complex questions related to ethics, religion, and culture in today’s society and lead the regional community in thoughtful, engaging discourse.

“We are very excited and profoundly grateful to the anonymous donor, as well as to Dr. Carolyn Jacobs and the Dill family, for their foundational support of the St. John Paul II Center for Ethics, Religion, and Culture,” said Elms College President Harry Dumay. “As a Catholic college, Elms has served as a place where thoughtful discourse on topics of faith, ethics, and culture has always been welcome. As an institution founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph, social justice has served as an important lens through which we examine these topics. The CERC connects us more deeply to our liberal-arts core and is a key objective in our Elms Plus strategic plan.”

“The creation of the CERC reflects the college’s goals of training the next generation of ethical leaders, sharing the richness of the Catholic intellectual tradition, encouraging interfaith dialogue, and promoting our commitment to diversity and inclusion,” said Peter DePergola II, associate professor of Bioethics and Medical Humanities at Elms College and a member of the CERC advisory board.

From an academic perspective, programming for the CERC will focus on the infusion of ethical leadership across the curriculum, the integration of ethics within the healthcare and business fields of study, and the provision of innovative experiential learning opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students.

“One of the long-term goals of the CERC is to facilitate the creation of master’s and doctoral programs in bioethics and medical humanities, which would make Elms College the only institution in the U.S. to offer a doctoral program in this multi-disciplinary field,” said Walter Breau, vice president of Academic Affairs.

Another goal of the CERC is to develop and produce a quarterly, peer-reviewed research journal that will highlight the interdisciplinary work of the CERC and include scholarly commentary on topics related to ethics, religion and spirituality, health, and culture.

An official launch of the St. John Paul II Center for Ethics, Religion, and Culture will take place in late October and, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will be held virtually.

American International College Welcomes John Vanasse to Head Campus Police

SPRINGFIELD — American International College (AIC) recently welcomed Lt. John Vanasse to lead the campus police department. Vanasse is an employee of G4S Secure Solutions North America, a leading international security-solutions group and the provider of campus-security services for American International College for more than five years.

Vanasse’s background and experience lend well to his new role at the college. Most recently, he was an instructor of Criminal Justice at Westfield High School. He has also served as a corrections officer and deputy sheriff at the Hampshire County Jail and House of Corrections. Additionally, while working in safety and security for the Springfield public schools, he managed a million-dollar budget, supervised security staff at schools throughout the district, developed safety and security training programs, and conducted investigations into major security infractions. Prior to relocating to Western Mass. 15 years ago, he was deputy director for Safety and Security at the Massachusetts State House and other state facilities throughout Government Center in Boston.

“Working for a college police department has always been a professional goal of mine,” Vanasse said. “I feel that it ties my work experiences in security, education, and law enforcement together well. Personally speaking, heading the police department of my late father’s alma mater makes it that much more special to me.”

Vanasse received his undergraduate degree in criminology and law from Suffolk University and a master’s degree in criminal justice from Anna Maria College.

MCLA to Mark Berkshire County STEM Week with Programming

NORTH ADAMS — For Berkshire County STEM Week, Oct. 19-23, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) and other county partners will offer virtual programming for local public-school students, K-12 educators, and the general community.

A complement to the statewide STEM Week initiative, Berkshire County STEM Week’s theme is “See Yourself in STEM.” Free and open to the public, the week will feature a virtual series of unique panels, workshops, speakers, virtual tours, and information about opportunities that exist in science, technology, engineering, and math in the Berkshires and beyond.

MCLA will offer three programs during the week: “Fun with Physics,” a workshop for middle- and high-school students on predictive motion; an ecology session for educators conducted by Professor Eric Doucette; and an ornithology presentation by Professor Daniel Shustack on the migration behavior of the dark-eyed junco.

On Tuesday, Oct. 20, Adams Community Bank will host a college-planning webinar with admission professionals from MCLA, Berkshire Community College, Williams College, and Pittsfield High School as a support for local high-school students and their families as they navigate the college-application process.

Pittsfield Community Television (PCTV) will be the platform host for the week’s series of events, and community members can access programming on cable access or at www.pittsfieldtv.org. See a full program schedule at www.mcla.edu/stemweek.

Each day of STEM Week will kick off with “Live at the BIC (Berkshire Innovation Center),” featuring award-winning host Jeremy Brisiel introducing viewers to local innovation partners. Berkshire Community College faculty and students will share a virtual lab tours, Williams College seniors will conduct an astronomy workshop, and Dr. Mark Sprague and Dr. Ashley Miller of Berkshire Orthopaedic Associates will conduct an orthopedic-surgery demonstration. MassHire will also run a virtual STEM Job Fair on Oct. 21-23, and the Berkshire Museum will offer “Be a Chemist,” a live virtual event where students can conduct safe experiments with items in their kitchens. Hancock Shaker Village will offer a virtual tour, and General Dynamics has developed a website for students featuring 15 different at-home science experiments suitable for every grade.

Learn more about regional events managed by the regional STEM networks across the Commonwealth in collaboration with local museums, nonprofits, schools, and local business partners at www.massstemweek.org.

Health New England Appoints New Chief Medical Officer

SPRINGFIELD — Health New England announced the recent appointment of Dr. Ira Klein to the role of vice president and chief medical officer. In this position, he is responsible for ensuring the quality and cost-effectiveness of healthcare services for Health New England members, and will focus on clinical excellence, innovation, and technology to improve health outcomes.

Klein joins Health New England’s executive leadership team and reports directly to Richard Swift, president and CEO.

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Ira Klein as our new chief medical officer. With decades of experience in the healthcare industry, he is uniquely qualified to serve our members and strengthen our mission to improve the health and lives of the people in our communities,” Swift said. “He is joining Health New England at a very important time and will be a tremendous asset to our organization and our community.”

Before joining Health New England, Klein served as senior director and lead, Healthcare Quality Strategy at Janssen for Johnson and Johnson Inc. in New Brunswick, N.J. Previously, he held various positions at Aetna Inc. in Hartford, Conn., including medical director, Patient Management, Northeast Region; senior medical director and analyst, National Accounts; and chief of staff and national medical director, Clinical Thought Leadership.

Klein has published articles in several medical and insurance-industry journals. In addition, he is active on various industry committees, including National Academy of Medicine, Pharmacy Quality Alliance, National Quality Forum, Network for Excellence in Healthcare Innovation, Foundation for eHealth Initiative, National Pharmaceutical Council, Pharmaceutical Research & Manufacturing Assoc., and Patient-Centered Primary Care Collaborative.

He is a diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine and a member of the American College of Physicians, as well as a certified health-insurance executive with the Assoc. of Health Insurance Plans, Executive Leadership Program.

Klein holds an MBA degree from Rutgers University’s Graduate School of Management, a doctor of medicine degree from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey – Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, and a bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University’s College of Pharmacy.

Celebrating the 2020 40 Under Forty

Class of 2020 Event Galleries Special Coverage

2020 40 Under Forty Virtual-Hybrid Celebration
Tues., Oct. 13 & Wed., Oct. 14, 2020

Scenes from Tuesday's 4 PM Event

Scenes from Tuesday's 6:30 PM Event

Scenes from Wednesday's 4 PM Event

Scenes from Wednesday's 6:30 PM Event

Photography by Leah Martin Photography

Amid new restrictions imposed by the governor on large gatherings and with a strong desire to keep everyone safe, it was decided that the most prudent course was to instead celebrate our honorees’ accomplishments with a hybrid platform.

The hybrid event has been spread out over two days on Tues., Oct. 13 and Wed., Oct. 14. Each “mini-event” will allow 10 honorees to celebrate in person at the Upper Vista of the Log Cabin. For those who can’t join us in person, we’ve created a livestream option so friends and family can cheer on the Class of 2020 from the safety and comfort of their home. The new two-night ‘Virtual Access Pass’ allows you to see all 40 of this year’s honorees accept their awards on Tuesday, Oct. 13 and Wednesday, Oct. 14!

The 40 Under Forty program for 2020 is sponsored by PeoplesBank and Health New England (presenting sponsors); Comcast Business, Isenberg School of Management, and Mercedes-Benz of Springfield (sponsors); the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (partner); and WWLP 22 News/CW Springfield (exclusive media sponsor).

Please refer to the below list to see when your 40 Under Forty honoree will be accepting their award.

2020 Sponsors Videos

2020 Presenting Sponsors

2020 Sponsors

2020 Partner

2020 Exclusive Media Sponsor

CitySpace Welcomes Andrea Kunst as Capital Campaign Manager

By BusinessWest Staff October 13, 2020

EASTHAMPTON — CitySpace announced that Andrea Kunst will fill the role of capital campaign manager for the organization, and will guide the Transformation Campaign, a project to restore and create a flexible performing-arts and community space in Easthampton’s Old Town Hall.

Kunst brings 20 years of advancement experience, raising close to $30 million in funding for schools and mission-driven nonprofits.

“My interest was piqued for this position because the Transformation Campaign is an important project in a great community, and allows me to use a career’s worth of experience to help achieve the goal of an enduring renovated arts and performance space,” she said.

After being introduced to the field of development at a Jesuit middle school in Jamaica Plain, Kunst found her calling and has continued to support organizations with strong missions of meeting community needs. Prior to retiring from Boston public schools, she spent a decade as the director of Advancement for a competency-based alternative high school in Roxbury.

With a last name that translates to ‘art’ in German, she has worked extensively in many creative fields, including writing columns for Boston magazine, teaching technical writing at Boston Architectural Center, managing a jazz club in Cambridge, and serving as board chair for Dorchester Arts Collaborative during its successful opening of Dorchester’s first community art gallery.

In 2016, Kunst began Cushing Mill, a contracting company for schools and nonprofits in need of advancement services. In that role, she has worked for the Center for Health and Food Law Policy at Harvard University, Fields Corner Main Street in Dorchester, All Dorchester Sports and Leadership; Boston Green Academy in Brighton, and Boston Farms Community Land Trust. She received both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in communications from Emerson College.

Frances Jones-Sneed to Moderate Community Read with Clinton Church Restoration

By BusinessWest Staff October 13, 2020