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Month: September 2025

Greenfield Local Cultural Council Announces 2026 Grant Cycle

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GREENFIELD — The Greenfield Local Cultural Council (GLCC) is now accepting grant proposals from organizations, schools, and individuals seeking funding to support cultural activities in the community. All submissions are due by Thursday, Oct. 16. Proposals can include community-oriented arts, humanities, and science programs.

For the second year in a row, Greenfield has received an allocation of $20,200 from the Massachusetts Cultural Council to distribute locally. The grant portal is now open. Click here to apply.

Greenfield’s funding priorities — shaped by a 2024 community survey — are to support projects that take place in Greenfield or neighboring towns. Based on survey feedback, the council strongly encourages applications for live performances and festivals, social justice and cultural diversity events, and public art. Full results of the survey are available at greenfield-ma.gov/cultural-council.

“Every year, the Greenfield Local Cultural Council is inspired by the creativity and commitment of our applicants,” said Tim Fisk, chair of the Greenfield Local Cultural Council. “With $20,200 to award this cycle, we’re excited to support projects that reflect the diversity and spirit of our community. Last year, we received 88 applications, which shows just how competitive the process is — but also how vibrant the arts and cultural landscape is in Greenfield.”

To make the process more accessible, the council has produced a four-part video tutorial series offering guidance on how to apply, align with local priorities, and build a strong proposal. The video tutorials will be available on the GLCC website at greenfield-ma.gov/cultural-council. In addition, the GLCC will host grant writing drop-in hours at GCTV, 393 Main St., Greenfield, beginning on Thursday, Sept. 11, from 4 to 6 p.m. Applicants are encouraged to take advantage of these resources for extra support.

“Local Cultural Council grants make Greenfield a more vibrant community,” Mayor Virginia Desorgher said. “This program can support a wide variety of projects in the arts, sciences, and humanities. I am so excited to see how the community puts these funds to use over the coming years.”

Recent projects funded by the GLCC include Musica Franklin Inc., Artspace Community Arts Center, Shea Theater Arts Center, and Local Access to Valley Arts.

Berkshire Innovation Center Announces New Round of Accelerator Companies

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PITTSFIELD — The Berkshire Innovation Center (BIC) announced the third cohort of startup firms that have been accepted into its Stage 2 Accelerator program. This 35-week, hands-on, results-oriented program is designed to serve early-stage tech startups. The awardees will receive BIC membership, full access to labs, advanced equipment, digital media studio, educational programming, and an internal team of subject matter experts, as well as broad, curated support from BIC’s committed member community.

“We launched our Stage 2 Accelerator program in 2023 so that we could provide the full range of BIC resources to more entrepreneurs,” said Ben Sosne, executive director of the Berkshire Innovation Center. “We had tremendous firms in the last two cohorts, many of whom we continue to work with very closely as BIC members. It is thrilling to welcome this next crop of entrepreneurs and to continue to build this program, which presents such an opportunity to fuel the growth of new firms and new jobs in sectors prioritized by the Commonwealth, and that strengthen of our regional rural innovation economy.”

The following firms have been accepted into the third cohort of the BIC Stage 2 Accelerator:

• Diel Technologies has developed a patented axial flux motor that allows wearables to harvest energy while in motion, whether running a marathon or picking up a cup of coffee.

• Elimentra Technologies is developing a proprietary system that collocates processing units at the source of biomass and industrial waste byproducts, converting these end-stream materials in high-value-add commodities while capturing carbon that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere.

• ENSO is reshaping the future of addiction recovery for more than 48 million Americans with an AI-powered behavior management system that delivers real-time, personalized support through a discreet wearable device and secure mobile platform.

• Globe Grown’s mission is to develop a fully autonomous robot that will help farmers reduce chemical herbicide use, improve soil health, and empower growers with data-driven, regenerative farming tools.

• HKG Energy has developed a proprietary material, Terra Silicon, that addresses the scalability, cost, and performance limitations of conventional graphite and silicon-graphite battery anodes. With a demonstrated energy density of over 400 watt hours per kilogram, fast-charging capabilities under 15 minutes, and a clear path to mass production, the firm is engaging with major original equipment manufacturers and battery manufacturers for early pilots.

• TaskMind is developing a full-circle sales platform designed to help teams sell smarter and harder. It is built for firms looking to improve the quality, precision, and efficiency of their sales outreach. Its intelligent web application equips sales representatives with the tools they need to generate deep research reports, craft high-context outreach, monitor real-time industry insights, and identify trends that guide smarter targeting.

Partners providing support for this program include the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, Mill Town Foundation, Hamilton Brook Smith Reynolds, MassMEDIC, Altium, MathWorks, and SolidWorks.

Entrepreneurs in the cohort will also have access to the BMA STAT Program, built in partnership with MIT and local industry partners with funding support from the U.S. Department of Commerce and MassTech Collaborative.

In addition, firms in the program will have extensive access to the vast network of experts that engage with the BIC regularly. Among the numerous mentors supporting the entrepreneurs and guiding the growth of the program is Sam Russo, co-founder of Dive Technologies, a firm that leveraged BIC resources to build its autonomous underwater vehicle prior to acquisition by Anduril Industries in 2022.

“I’m proud of what the team at Dive Technologies was able to accomplish and am grateful for the support that the BIC and the BIC network provided along the way,” Russo said. “I learned a tremendous amount as we advanced our product and grew our firm, and I continue to enjoy sharing my experiences with the entrepreneurs leveraging the BIC.”

Christian D’Amour Named Senior Director of Supermarket Operations at Big Y

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Christian D’Amour

SPRINGFIELD — The board of directors of Big Y Foods Inc. announced the appointment of Christian D’Amour as senior director of Supermarket Operations. He will be responsible for the oversight of the five supermarket districts, ensuring operational excellence across all locations.

Christian is a third-generation D’Amour family member. He is a grandson of Big Y co-founder Gerald D’Amour and son of Executive Chairman Charles D’Amour. He reports to Nicole D’Amour Schneider, senior vice president of Retail Operations and Customer Experience.

Christian began his career at Big Y at the age of 14 as a part-time service clerk. After graduating from college, he worked as a sales and marketing representative for an insurance company based in Providence, R.I. He rejoined Big Y in 2014 as a store director trainee. Within a year, he was promoted to assistant store director at the Wilbraham store.

In 2016, Christian was named store director in Southampton, later returning to manage the Wilbraham location. He was then selected to lead Table & Vine’s flagship store in West Springfield. In 2019, he was appointed district sales and merchandising mentor for Big Y’s 15-store district in Western Massachusetts. In this role, he oversaw sales, merchandising, and team development across all departments, while continuing to manage operations at Table & Vine.

In 2021, he took on leadership of Big Y’s e-commerce platform, a role he held through 2023. He was subsequently appointed district director, overseeing 16 Big Y locations across Connecticut. He holds a bachelor’s degree from St. Michael’s College in Vermont and spent a semester studying at the National University of Ireland at Galway.

According to Nicole D’Amour Schneider, “Christian’s care and compassion for our store teams and our customers, along with his enthusiasm and genuine love for the business, make him well suited for this elevated role. We are excited for the positive impact Christian’s leadership will have across all of our supermarkets.”

The Writer’s Center to Host Virtual Reading with Stockbridge Author on Sept. 16

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STOCKBRIDGE — Berkshire author Catherine Arnold will host a virtual reading on Tuesday, Sept. 16 at 7 p.m. with fellow Bauhan Publishing author Richard Smith, sponsored by the Writer’s Center, which offers writing workshops and literary events virtually and nationwide.

Arnold’s second book of poetry, The Apple Tree, was published by Bauhan in April. Her first book, Receipt for Lost Words, won the May Sarton New Hampshire Poetry Prize. Her poems and prose have appeared in the Cincinnati Review, the Gettysburg Review, the Mid-American Review, and Prairie Schooner, among other publications.

Richard Smith’s first book, Not a Soul but Us, is a narrative in sonnets about the plague pandemic in mid-14th-century England. It won the 2021 May Sarton New Hampshire Poetry Prize and was released in 2022 by Bauhan Publishing. In April 2026, Bauhan will publish Beyond Where Words Can Go: A Novel in 200 Sonnets, a narrative about a group of Tudor-era Benedictine monks.

The reading is free to attend and open to the public. Click here to receive the Zoom link.

Claire Sanders Elected Chair of Willie Ross School for the Deaf Board of Trustees

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Claire Sanders

LONGMEADOW — Willie Ross School for the Deaf (WRSD) announced a new chair of its board of trustees. Claire Sanders is the second deaf chair of the board in the school’s history, following the late George Balsley II, who served as chair until his passing in early 2025.

Sanders, who has been teaching in the field of American Sign Language and deaf studies for more than 25 years, serves as a Deaf Studies department chair and a professor of Language and Culture at Holyoke Community College. She has also taught at numerous colleges, including Hampshire College, Keene State College, Mt. Wachusett Community College, River Valley Community College, and Greenfield Community College.

“One of the reasons our school has been so resilient and successful since our inception is the quality of our board of trustees and trustee leadership,” said Bert Carter, president and CEO of WRSD. “Claire brings experience in deaf education to the position, and we welcome her to this new leadership position.”

Sanders holds a master’s-level national certification from the American Sign Language Teachers Assoc. In addition to her service on the WRSD board, she is a board member of the Western Massachusetts Assoc. for the Deaf and has led workshops related to the growing field of deaf studies.

“I felt honored to be invited to be on the board of trustees at WRSD in 2019, and am now also honored to serve as the school’s second deaf chair. As chair, I will provide my steadfast support for deaf, deafblind, and hard-of-hearing children at WRSD, for they so deserve the opportunity to receive the best education and experience available,” Sanders said. “As a deaf person with a master’s degree in deaf education, reconnecting in the field of deaf education enables me to continue my involvement in the betterment of the lives of WRSD students.”

1Berkshire Awards Grant to Roots & Dreams and Mustard Seeds

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PITTSFIELD — 1Berkshire, thanks to a one-time earmark from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, announced the awarding of a $15,000 Immigrant Entrepreneurial Support Grant to Roots & Dreams and Mustard Seeds. This grant represents the second of two high-impact partner grant awards made by 1Berkshire to help foster the ecosystem and infrastructure needed to help the robust Berkshire immigrant entrepreneur community grow and thrive.

Leveraging a one-time earmark allocated by the Commonwealth, 1Berkshire’s Immigrant Business Support Program launched in early 2025 to provide a variety of financial and technical assistance support to help entrepreneurs and businesses in the region gain improved access to programs that help their businesses improve.

This high-impact partner grant awarded to Roots & Dreams and Mustard Seeds advances this work by helping the organization to overcome a final funding hurdle to fit out a shared commercial kitchen space in its building at 117-133 Fenn St. in Pittsfield. Additionally, this $15,000 aims to help offset some of the $37,000 in Community Empowerment and Reinvestment Fund (CERP) funds cut from a previously awarded CERP grant (a funding resource that has been integral to its work over the past two years).

The multi-use spaces of 117-133 Fenn St. have already become a major anchor point of community, support, and entrepreneurship for a diverse array of individuals and small businesses. Fitting out this new shared kitchen space will further improve the ability of the space to become an incubator and accelerator of various food businesses, allowing historically distressed populations to bring their dreams to fruition. With 73 enrolled participants in the organization’s cooperative development program, including seven developing cooperatives, it has fostered a growing culture of employee ownership and equity building in the region.

“As a more radical, grassroots organization, it can be difficult for us to find funding from partners or collaborators who respect our autonomy and vision,” said Michael Hitchcock of Roots & Dreams and Mustard Seeds. “We’re very grateful to the 1Berkshire team, who spent so much time understanding our approach and our plans before suggesting a mutually beneficial way to collaborate on reopening this kitchen, a project that will benefit both the individuals who work there and the economic development of Pittsfield in general.”

Benjamin Lamb, 1Berkshire’s vice president of Economic Development, added that “we are so thankful that we could work with the incredible team at Roots & Dreams and Mustard Seeds to put these resources toward good work that will have a long-term impact on our diverse entrepreneurial community. Having these one-time funds available and matching them with a partner doing deep and meaningful work is exactly the type of connective tissue building we love to support.”

River Valley Counseling Center Secures Grant to Expand Supervision Capacity

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HOLYOKE — River Valley Counseling Center (RVCC), now a member of ServiceNet, has received a $912,000 award through the Healey-Driscoll administration’s Behavioral Health Supervising Clinicians Incentive Program, the largest award to a behavioral health provider in Western Mass.

This funding, from the Executive Office of Health and Human Services’ Behavioral Health Trust, supports stipends for licensed clinicians who supervise interns and unlicensed staff, a crucial but time-intensive role that often goes uncompensated.

“This funding allows us to truly support and retain the experienced clinicians who take on the critical — and often overlooked — work of supervision,” said Elaine Campbell, vice president of Clinical Services at ServiceNet. “It’s a step toward valuing the full scope of what they contribute.”

RVCC employs nearly 200 unlicensed clinicians who can see clients under supervision. With this grant, senior clinicians can dedicate more time to mentoring, with financial recognition that fosters retention and stability.

“When supervision is strong, new clinicians get the guidance they need, clients get better care, and experienced staff are more likely to stay,” Campbell said. “This funding helps us build the kind of learning environment where everyone benefits.”

Awarded over a two-year period, the grant offsets the time supervisors invest in training and mentoring, allowing RVCC to further build and sustain a high-quality path to licensure.

This selection reflects the breadth of RVCC’s reach: five outpatient clinics in Holyoke, Chicopee, Easthampton, Springfield, and Westfield, plus services in dozens of schools across Hampshire and Hampden counties.

Westfield Bank Supports YMCA of Greater Westfield’s New Ninja Zone

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WESTFIELD — Westfield Bank donated $5,000 to the YMCA of Greater Westfield to help launch Ninja Zone, a new program that promotes fitness, confidence, and fun for local kids.

“We’re so grateful to Westfield Bank for supporting our exciting new Ninja Zone program,” said Andrea Allard, CEO of the YMCA of Greater Westfield. “Thanks to their generosity, children and families will soon be jumping, flipping, and growing stronger, physically and mentally. We plan to launch early 2026.”

The YMCA of Greater Westfield has served the region for more than 95 years, providing opportunities for youth development, healthy living, and social connection.

“Few organizations have the reach, impact, and heart that the Y does,” said James Hagan, president and CEO of Westfield Bank. “We’re proud to support their efforts — and to help bring this fun new offering to life for local families.”

Aditya Surendhra Becomes LEED Accredited Professional

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Aditya Surendhra

SPRINGFIELD — Dietz & Company Architects Inc. announced that architect Aditya Surendhra has earned the credential of LEED accredited professional with a building design and construction (LEED AP BD+C) specialty through the U.S Green Building Council (USGBC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting sustainability in the built environment.

The LEED AP BD+C designation denotes proficiency in current sustainable design, construction, and operations standards, and signifies expertise in green building and a LEED rating system. In order to achieve LEED certification, Surendhra completed a rigorous, multi-part exam to prove his knowledge on the subject.

Surendhra joined Dietz & Company Architects in 2020 as an architectural associate and is now an architect in its Cambridge office, where his focus is on design and project management for multi-family housing and community centers.

“I saw LEED certification as essential to my professional development and progressing my career,” he said. “The requirements of LEED certified design change your mindset to think of sustainability as part of the design process and integral to all decisions made from the start of design all the way through construction, instead of a group of bolt-on solutions. Due to client goals, the stretch energy code, and other specialized opt-in building codes in Massachusetts, many of my projects are already using several of these green methodologies and standards even when LEED certification isn’t being pursued. Overall, this additional knowledge complements other industry green building standards and certifications while providing added value for our clients to all of our projects.”

bankESB Donates $5,000 to It Takes a Village

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EASTHAMPTON — bankESB announced a $5,000 donation to It Takes a Village, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families in the rural Hilltown communities of Western Mass. The funding will help secure the future of Hilltown Village’s programs and contribute to its transformative capital project to establish a permanent community anchor in downtown Huntington.

It Takes a Village connects families with essential resources, education, and postpartum support while fostering strong community ties. In addition to sustaining these ongoing programs, the organization is embarking on a capital project that will create a welcoming, centralized space in downtown Huntington — a hub for programs, services, and community gatherings.

“We are honored to be the recipient of this gift from bankESB. It’s wonderful to know there are champions in our community who are willing to step forward and advocate for what ‘it takes a village’ means,” said Kenzie Kinsella, Communications and Development director at It Takes a Village. “With the bank’s contribution, we will be able to continue to not only update our building, but also preserve a historical landmark within the town.”

Matthew Sosik, bankESB president and CEO, added that “bankESB is proud to support It Takes a Village as they continue their important work for families in our community. This contribution not only ensures their programs can thrive, but also helps bring to life a project that will strengthen downtown Huntington and serve as a gathering place for the entire community.”

The donation was made through bankESB’s charitable giving program, the Giving Tree, which supports local nonprofits and initiatives that enrich communities across Western Mass.

Harrison Fitch Leadership Fund to Host Leadership Greatness Reception

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SPRINGFIELD — Brooks Fitch, on behalf of the Harrison Fitch Leadership Fund, is hosting a leadership greatness summit for 150 local youth scholars and leaders prior to the Basketball Hall of Fame Enshrinement. The event will be held at the new Hope Center for the Arts in Springfield (formerly known as CityStage) on Saturday, Sept. 6 from 3:45 to 5:45 p.m.

The event is being underwritten by generous sponsorship of the University of Connecticut, New Valley Bank & Trust, and the Beveridge Family Foundation, along with collaborative partners Basketball Hall of Fame, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, University of Connecticut, Alpha Psi Boule, Hazen Paper, Hope Center for the Arts, and Glenmeadow.

“The Fitch Fund has collaborated with young leaders at previous Hall of Fame events at Mohegan Sun; however, this is the first time that the fund is honoring Springfield area scholar leaders here in Springfield,” said Brooks Fitch, the founder of the Harrison Fitch Leadership Fund. “We are very excited to honor and inspire our next generation of local leaders in this unique way, tied to one of the most important annual events in Springfield.”

The student leaders will be treated to conversations with Hall of Fame inductees Bernard King and Cynthia Cooper.

“Both of these individuals embody the grace and persistence that is so important to young people,” said Jeff Sullivan, president of New Valley Bank. “New Valley is dedicated to investing in the next generation of leaders in our community. Nothing came easy to Bernard King and Cynthia Cooper in their journeys to get into the Hall. The young scholars can learn a tremendous amount from the drive and dedication that has to happen before any dream of Hall of Fame success can be realized.”

Polish Miss Massachusetts Dominika Jasinska to Compete at National Competition

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CHICOPEE — Polish National Credit Union (PNCU) announced that Dominika Jasinska, recently crowned Polish Miss Massachusetts 2026, will represent the Commonwealth at the Miss Polish America national competition. Jasinska, a member of PNCU, won the Massachusetts title earlier this month, captivating judges with her grace, intelligence, and deep connection to her Polish heritage.

The Polish Miss Massachusetts Pageant, held annually in Holyoke, celebrates young women of Polish descent aged 18 to 25, offering scholarships and a platform to showcase cultural pride and leadership. Jasinska’s victory marks a significant milestone, and she is poised to make a strong impression at the national level, where she will compete against other talented Polish-American women for the Miss Polish America title.

“We are incredibly proud of Dominika and her dedication to representing our community and Polish heritage,” PNCU President and CEO James Kelly said. “Her journey is an inspiration, and we’re excited to cheer her on as she competes on the national level.”

In addition to her national competition preparations, Jasinska will participate in the Pulaski Day Parade in New York City on Sunday, Oct. 5 and the Pulaski Parade in Northampton on Monday, Oct. 13, celebrating Polish culture and community spirit alongside fellow residents and PNCU members. The PNCU community recently celebrated her achievement with a luncheon, attended by Chicopee Mayor John Vieau, who joined credit union employees in honoring Jasinska’s success.

The Dowd Insurance Agencies Move Ludlow Office to New Center Street location

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HOLYOKE — On Sept. 8, the Ideal-Dowd Insurance Agency office in Ludlow will relocate from 187 East St. to a new location a mile and a half away at 563 Center St.

“This move underscores our commitment to serving the Greater Ludlow community,” said John Dowd, president and CEO of the Dowd Insurance Agencies. “The new location provides more parking and wider access, along with more space for our growing staff. Our clients can continue to expect the same familiar faces and the exceptional service they’ve come to rely on.”

The new office offers a central location for convenient access, ample parking, and room to grow. The agency looks forward to welcoming clients to its new Ludlow location to review coverage, pay a bill, or simply stop by and say hello.

MCLA to Host Constitution Day Lecture on Surveillance, Police, Big Tech

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NORTH ADAMS — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) will host its annual Constitution Day Lecture on Wednesday, Sept. 17 at 4 p.m. in Murdock Hall, Room 218.

This year’s presentation, titled “Surveillance, Police, and Big Tech: Lessons from Baltimore,” will be delivered by Ben Snyder, associate professor of Sociology at Williams College. Snyder’s talk will focus on a 2020 partnership between Baltimore police and a technology startup to deploy aerial surveillance planes designed to reduce gun violence. Equipped with high-powered cameras, the planes recorded the movements of every person in public view across the city.

Drawing from direct observations of homicide cases, Snyder will examine how the program operated, why it largely failed, and the broader consequences of such for-profit surveillance initiatives on constitutional rights.

Snyder has taught at Williams College since 2018 and tells unique stories about how technology is shaping society from the perspective of everyday people. He is the author of two books: Spy Plane: Inside Baltimore’s Surveillance Experiment and The Disrupted Workplace: Time and the Moral Order of Flexible Capitalism. He has also published numerous scholarly and popular pieces based on immersive investigations of difficult-to-reach populations, from long-haul truck drivers to hedge fund traders to surveillance analysts.

Constitution Day was established as a federal holiday in 2004 and first celebrated in 2005, recognizing the signing of the U.S. Constitution on Sept. 17, 1787 in Philadelphia. MCLA’s Constitution Day Lecture is free and open to the public and is made possible by its Department of History and Political Science.

Non-credit Cooking, Wine-tasting Classes Return to HCC This Fall

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HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College (HCC) is running a series of non-credit cooking and wine-tasting classes this fall at the HCC MGM Culinary Arts Institute.

Monthly sessions of both the cooking and wine-tasting classes run from 6 to 8 p.m. starting Thursday, Sept. 11, and will continue on Thursday, Oct. 16; Thursday, Nov. 13; and Wednesday, Dec. 10 at the HCC MGM Culinary Arts Institute, 164 Race St., Holyoke.

Valley wine writer Ken Ross returns to lead the wine-tasting classes. The four stand-alone sessions each focus on a different theme: organic wine (Sept. 11), Rhone wine (Oct. 16), California wine (Nov. 13), and holiday wine (Dec. 10). The classes cost $79 per session, which includes wine and light snacks.

The cooking classes are led by HCC culinary arts alumni and local chefs Diana Swanigan and Marangelly Vargas-Gonzalez: Sept. 11: charcuterie board workshop (Swanigan); Oct. 16: Mediterranean night (Vargas-Gonzalez); Nov. 13: una noche en España (Swanigan); Dec. 10: wine and tapas night (Vargas-Gonzalez). Each session costs $99, including food and drinks.

To register or read a more detailed description of each class, visit hcc.edu/food.

Freedom Credit Union Collecting Donations for Alzheimer’s Assoc.

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SPRINGFIELD — Each month, Freedom Credit Union (FCU) provides its members, staff, and community with an opportunity to support a local nonprofit organization making a difference in the lives of local residents. For September, Freedom is partnering with the Alzheimer’s Assoc. to raise awareness and funds through its participation in the local Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Sunday, Oct. 26 at Holyoke Community College.

Through Sept. 30, community members are encouraged to visit any Freedom Credit Union branch to make a donation to benefit the Alzheimer’s Assoc., the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support, and research.

“Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia touch so many families, including our own staff and members,” Freedom Credit Union President Glenn Welch said. “We are proud to support the Alzheimer’s Association and participate in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, helping fund their critical work while honoring those we love who are affected by this devastating disease.”

In addition to collecting donations throughout the month, Freedom Credit Union will also field a team in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Oct. 26, joining thousands of participants across the region in the fight to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia.

The Alzheimer’s Assoc. is a national nonprofit with a mission to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research, provide and enhance care and support for all affected, and reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.

Greylock Welcomes Amy Ganci as Vice President, Business Banking Officer

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Amy Ganci

PITTSFIELD — Greylock Federal Credit Union announced the hiring of Vice President, Business Banking Officer Amy Ganci, who joins the credit union’s Business Banking team.

“Amy’s holistic approach to serving small business will serve our community well. I am pleased to have her positive energy and deep knowledge base at Greylock Federal Credit Union,” said Jodi Rathbun-Briggs, senior vice president, chief lending officer. “Our current and future members will enjoy having her as a trusted advisor for commercial lending and business banking needs.”

As part of the Business Banking team, Ganci will originate and underwrite commercial loan products and collaborate on business development activities, serving as an advisor for Greylock’s members by providing insight and support to small businesses. She will interface with loan applicants, act as account officer for existing credit union relationships, and manage all aspects of business development.

“I am very excited to share my positive nature of helping people. I am truly a people person,” Ganci said. “I love to connect, hear their stories, and get a true sense and understanding of how I can add value to enlist and align Greylock’s mission to their mission.”

Ganci has nearly 25 years of experience in business banking; her most recent role was vice president at PeoplesBank, where she managed a robust portfolio of client relationships, developed new relationships and expanded existing ones, and worked closely with branch partners to provide solutions to both new and existing clients.

An active participant at her church and children’s schools, Ganci holds an associate degree in business from Greenfield Community College and has completed extensive coursework in business/financial management, psychology, and sociology from Westfield State University.

“What excites me most is joining a truly mission-driven organization,” she said. “I am thrilled to be a part of such a wonderful team and to be able to continue supporting the businesses and communities we serve.”

Community Action Pioneer Valley Announces Lev BenEzra as New Executive Director

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GREENFIELD — Community Action Pioneer Valley (CAPV), the federally designated anti-poverty agency serving Franklin and Hampshire counties, announced that Lev BenEzra has been selected as the organization’s new executive director following an extensive search.

BenEzra will succeed Clare Higgins, who retired in July after nearly 14 years of leadership. BenEzra will begin her new role on Oct. 27. She brings 15 years of senior leadership experience in the nonprofit sector, with particular expertise in partnership development, fundraising, strategic leadership, and operations.

Her appointment comes at a critical time as CAPV continues its vital mission to assist people with low incomes to achieve economic stability and security, while navigating an increasingly complex landscape of community needs and funding challenges.

“Lev’s combination of external leadership experience and familiarity with CAPV positions her well to build on our organizational strengths while guiding us through new opportunities ahead,” said Charity Day, board of directors chair. “Her demonstrated commitment to equity, collaboration, and community aligns with our values and mission.”

Since 2019, BenEzra has served as executive director of the Amherst Survival Center, where she led the organization to become the largest direct-service food security organization in Western Mass. Under her leadership, the center now provides 1.5 million meals annually to more than 11,000 people across the region. Her tenure at the center was marked by growth and resilience. She successfully navigated the organization through the COVID-19 pandemic while simultaneously tripling the scale of food and nutrition programs, expanding critical partnerships, enhancing fundraising efforts, and improving the overall participant experience.

BenEzra is no stranger to Community Action Pioneer Valley. From 2008 to 2019, she served as program manager and then department director of CAPV’s Youth and Workforce Development programs. During her previous tenure, she successfully grew the department, strengthened program outcomes, and built lasting partnerships across the region.

Her community involvement extended beyond her direct role, as she co-chaired the Communities that Care Coalition and actively participated in numerous other regional coalitions and CAPV internal committees, including strategic planning initiatives. This experience provided her with comprehensive knowledge of CAPV’s operations, values, and community partnerships.

BenEzra holds a master’s degree in management of mission driven organizations, providing her with specialized expertise in the complexities of leading purpose-driven organizations. Her deep understanding of the Pioneer Valley region, combined with strong relationships with community partners and legislative delegations at both state and federal levels, positions her to advance CAPV’s advocacy and service delivery efforts effectively.

ERC5 to Host Community Celebration on Sept. 5

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EAST LONGMEADOW — The East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce (ERC5) will host a community celebration on Friday, Sept. 5 beginning at 3 p.m. at East Village Tavern, 53 North Main St., East Longmeadow. The ceremony will feature a check presentation to the East Longmeadow Rotary Club, followed by a ribbon-cutting event to unveil the new patio at East Village Tavern.

This event highlights the spirit of community and the importance of giving back. The check presentation to the East Longmeadow Rotary Club demonstrates the commitment of the Sullivan, Dessereau, and Arment families to supporting local initiatives and programs that enrich the community. Following the donation, the ribbon-cutting ceremony will officially open the new patio, a space designed for the community to gather.

After the ribbon cutting, attendees are invited to stay for an ERC5 After 5 Networking event, where community members and businesses can connect, share ideas, and strengthen relationships. The event is open to the public.

PeoplesBank Announces CEO Retirement, Leadership Changes

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HOLYOKE — Tom Senecal recently announced he will retire at the end of 2025 after more than 35 years in the banking industry. PeoplesBank, which he joined in 1995, has grown from a $450 million institution to almost $7 billion at the bank’s mutual holding company.

“I just feel it’s the right time to allow a new generation to lead the bank in a direction that it needs to in order to compete with an ever-changing landscape,” Senecal said.

The board of directors of PeoplesBank and the board of trustees of PeoplesBancorp, MHC have unanimously approved a succession plan resulting from the retirement of Senecal at the end of 2025. He currently serves as chairman and CEO of PeoplesBank and PeoplesBancorp, MHC.

The CEO role will be filled by Todd Tallman, who will also remain CEO of Cornerstone Bank. Brian Canina will remain president of PeoplesBank and become president of PeoplesBancorp, MHC. Daniel Zona, currently president of Athol Savings Bank, will become president of Cornerstone Bank once the merger of Athol into Cornerstone is completed. Senecal will retain his role as the chairman of the board of directors of PeoplesBank and chairman of the board of trustees of PeoplesBancorp, MHC beginning in 2026.

“Tom and I define success the same way. It’s about the people,” Tallman said. “From that perspective, Tom has achieved immense success by growing an organization focused on the people who work for the bank and the customers and communities we serve. That focus will not change.”

Senecal led PeoplesBank through a period of unprecedented expansion, including two mergers, with a third — the merger of Athol into Cornerstone — pending. During his tenure, PeoplesBank opened six new banking centers in Massachusetts and Connecticut, launched a national digital bank, had record-setting corporate charitable contributions, and, most recently, secured the naming rights for PeoplesBank Arena in Hartford, Conn. The bank has been named among the Top Places to Work by the Boston Globe, a Best Local Bank in Massachusetts and Connecticut, and has repeatedly been named to the Boston Business Journal’s Top Corporate Charitable Contributors list.

“As a mutual bank, we are charged with supporting our customers and the communities they live in,” Canina said. “Tom helped us expand our mission in ways we never thought were possible. During his tenure, we have vastly improved our banking technology and core operating systems, and have brought the award-winning PeoplesBank experience and services to more and more customers.”

Couple Commits $4 Million to Research Support at UMass Amherst

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Daily News

AMHERST — UMass Amherst has accepted gifts and commitments totaling $4 million from longtime supporters John and Elizabeth Armstrong to advance the university’s research enterprise. The gifts establish the UMass Amherst Research Continuity Fund, the Armstrong Graduate Research Grant Fund, and the Armstrong Chancellor Professorships Award Fund, all of which will underwrite research contributions across a broad range of disciplines at UMass Amherst.

“As a public, land-grant university, UMass Amherst has a duty to support research that will benefit our local communities, the Commonwealth, and the world,” Chancellor Javier Reyes said. “The Armstrongs’ commitments will enable us to build a stronger foundation for this work and reinforce the university’s mission to educate, innovate, and produce new knowledge that serves the common good.”

In FY 2025, the university’s researchers received $180 million in federal funding to support their work. This level of support has traditionally catalyzed innovations that directly impact local, national, and global communities. Following recent changes in federal funding guidelines, UMass Amherst is exploring alternative ways to accelerate its most promising research programs and retain talented faculty.

In April, the Armstrongs made a $500,000 gift to the UMass Amherst Research Continuity Fund, which was established to provide immediate support to continue vital research despite federal funding interruptions and uncertainty about future funding in fields such as health equity, climate change, and gender-related issues.

The Armstrong Graduate Research Grant Fund, established with a $1 million gift, will provide grants in support of research conducted by graduate students at UMass Amherst. This fund will be a crucial resource for doctoral students pursuing dissertation research, graduate student access to training in innovative methods, and students looking to participate in research projects supervised by faculty that directly foster their completion of an advanced degree.

The remaining $2.5 million portion of the Armstrongs’ commitment will create an endowed Armstrong Chancellor Professorships Award Fund. Administered by the chancellor and provost, this fund will enable the university to retain outstanding, tenured faculty members who have made or can make significant contributions to the academic reputation of the university.

UMass Amherst faculty are routinely recruited by institutions in other countries. This will help combat the brain drain that U.S. universities are currently experiencing. Award holders will receive support for expenses related to their research and teaching for a renewable term of three years.

John and Elizabeth Armstrong are longstanding donors, volunteers, and friends of UMass Amherst. John, who earned a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, and PhD from Harvard, started his career as a researcher and went on to serve as director of Research and vice president for Science and Technology during a 30-year career with IBM. Elizabeth volunteered and eventually worked for the United Way in Westchester, N.Y. After John retired, the couple chose Amherst as their home in 1995. Over the years, they have demonstrated a strong commitment to faculty support at UMass Amherst and driving innovation in the physical sciences.

“Elizabeth and I have supported the work of faculty and researchers at UMass because we feel that they form the foundation for the university’s mission,” John Armstrong said. “Every day, faculty are developing new ideas, pushing the boundaries of their fields, and training the succeeding generations of scholars. Their work has tangible benefits for society and introduces students at all levels to the methods, practice, and rewards of conducting research. As federal funding for research becomes uncertain, we hope our support will inspire others to invest in the people and research programs that are dedicated to advancing the common good in every aspect of our lives.”

Springfield Museums Announce 2025 Ubora, Ahadi Award Recipients

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The African Hall Committee of Springfield Museums announced the recipients of the prestigious Ubora Award and Ahadi Youth Award, which will be presented at a ceremony at the Museums on Saturday, Sept. 20, at 6 p.m. The ceremony is open the public, with tickets now on sale at springfieldmuseums.org/ubora.

Vanessa Ford

Vanessa Ford, vocalist, composer, and arts leader, is this year’s Ubora Award recipient, and — for the first time in the history of the awards — two Springfield students were selected to receive the Ahadi Youth Award: Saryah Brantley and Elijah Ballard Deon.

“This event is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate leadership, excellence, and the power of community,” said Terry Powe, chair of the African Hall Committee. “Each year, it brings together inspiring individuals for an evening of fellowship, recognition, and meaningful celebration.”

Named for the Swahili word meaning ‘excellence,’ the Ubora Award has been awarded annually since 1992 to an African-American adult who has demonstrated a commitment to Greater Springfield and exhibited excellence in the fields of community service, education, science, humanities, or the arts.

Ford is a dynamic performer whose career spans music, public service, and community health. Born and raised in Springfield, she proudly represents her Colombian, Panamanian, and Costa Rican heritage, which has shaped her commitment to cultural inclusivity and service.

From an early age, Vanessa’s musical gifts opened doors to perform at national and local events, including military promotions, political ceremonies, and community celebrations. She has sung for Gov. Deval Patrick, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and the city of Springfield at Mayor Domenic Sarno’s inaugurations, remembrance ceremonies, and major civic events. Her original music, including “Great Jehovah” and “Stronger Together,” reflects her faith and dedication to uplifting others. She also serves as founding director of the Springfield CommUnity Chorale, uniting singers and musicians from all backgrounds to celebrate diversity through music.

Ford’s leadership extends beyond performance. She is a faculty member at the Community Music School of Springfield and the director of the Trust Transfer Project, a nationally recognized initiative that mobilizes artists to address public health through creative expression. Recognized by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the American Alliance of Museums, and the Assoc. of Science and Technology Centers, the project has become a model for building vaccine confidence and community wellness through arts and culture. In 2023, she presented at the CDC Museum in Atlanta and delivered the keynote at the New Hampshire State Council on the Arts Woven Conference.

Deeply rooted in civic engagement, Ford serves as board president of Blues to Green Inc. She is a board member of Common Wealth Murals and member of the Brianna Fund for Children with Physical Disabilities gospel planning team. She is a member of the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts Youth Mental Health Advisory Coalition and the New England Teaching Artist Collaborative steering group. From 2012 to 2020, she served as director of Operations for state Sen. James Welch, managing the district office, constituent services, and community outreach.

Brantley and Ballard Deon were selected as the Ahadi Youth Award recipients, given since 2009 to an African-American student (age 19 or younger) who embodies the Swahili word for ‘promise’ and excels both in academics and service to the Greater Springfield community.

Saryah Brantley

Brantley, a recent graduate of Hampden Charter School of Science, is an exceptional student and leader who has persevered through personal challenges with resilience and determination. She has excelled academically, taking four AP courses, maintaining a 4.38 GPA, and earning certificates of scholastic achievement.

Last summer, she was selected for Spelman College’s Early College Program, where she completed a college-level biology course. She was accepted to numerous colleges and universities, including prestigious HBCUs such as Spelman, Howard University, and Hampton University, as well as local institutions like Smith College and UMass Boston. She is now pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology at Spelman.

Brantley is a natural leader, serving as senior council president, National Honor Society president, and captain and founder of her high school’s dance team. She also leads morning announcements, mentors younger students, and has been a youth speaker at her church. In addition, she was a member of her school’s tennis team for four years.

Elijah Ballard Deon

Ballard Deon distinguished himself as an exceptional scholar and leader throughout his years at Rise Early College High School. Consistently earning first honors, he graduated as valedictorian of his class this past spring and challenged himself by enrolling in Rise’s early college program in partnership with Springfield Technical Community College. There, he excelled, earning a grade of B or higher in every course. Beyond his own success, he demonstrated a natural ability to uplift his peers, leading by example in the classroom and creating a study group to support students in their psychology course.

His leadership extended well beyond academics. As an active member of student council, he helped establish the annual Rise Talent Show. He was also a powerful advocate for student voice, organizing initiatives to address concerns and leading student-driven projects such as cafeteria cleanups and the “Keep Rise Clean” campaign. Known for his leadership and magnetic personality, he leaves a lasting impression wherever he goes.

The Springfield Museums and African Hall Committee are accepting donations to the Ahadi Scholarship Fund, which directly empowers young leaders like Brantley and Ballard Deon, offering a meaningful way to invest in both the future of individual students and the strength of the Greater Springfield community. The Museums were grateful to receive a donation to the Ahadi Fund from the Jack and Jill of America Inc. Western Massachusetts Chapter this past spring.

The African Hall Committee is a volunteer group comprising educators, businesspeople, and leaders from the Black community. In 2024, the recipient of the Ubora Award was Rosemary Tracy Woods, executive director of the Art for the Soul Gallery, and Jackson Counsel-Watkins was the recipient of the Ahadi Youth Award.

The 2025 Ubora and Ahadi Awards ceremony is sponsored by Baystate Health.

Bay Path Names Tracy Bentley-Root Program Director of Occupational Therapy

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Daily News

Tracy Bentley-Root

LONGMEADOW — Bay Path University announced the appointment of Tracy Bentley-Root as the new program director of Occupational Therapy. Bentley-Root brings more than two decades of teaching, research, clinical practice, and administrative experience to her new leadership role in Bay Path’s master of occupational therapy (MOT) program.

Bentley-Root joined Bay Path as interim program director in July 2024. Under her leadership, the MOT program has seen advancements in strategic planning, advising practices, and curriculum delivery. She also supports pre-occupational therapy programming at the undergraduate level and serves as faculty lead for occupational therapy for the older adult.

A licensed and board-certified occupational therapist since 1997, Bentley-Root earned both her master’s and bachelor’s degrees in occupational therapy from D’Youville College and a doctorate in health science from the University of Indianapolis in 2022.

An active scholar and educator, she has presented her work at national and international conferences, including the American Occupational Therapy Assoc. and the upcoming 2026 World Federation of Occupational Therapists Congress in Bangkok. Her research focuses on fieldwork education, interprofessional collaboration, cognitive intervention, and evidence-based practice. Her work has been recognized with multiple awards, including the D’Youville University Faculty Award for 2021-22.

In addition to her university roles, Bentley-Root has served in a variety of clinical and leadership capacities, including as corporate director of Rehab Clinical Resources at Amedisys Home Health. She is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Occupational Therapy Assoc. and the New York State Occupational Therapy Assoc.

“Tracy brings an extraordinary depth of experience to this role, along with a strong commitment to advancing the profession of occupational therapy and preparing students to meet the needs of an evolving healthcare landscape,” said Natalia Blank, vice president of Academic Affairs at Bay Path University. “We are thrilled to welcome her leadership.”

STCC Appoints Two New Academic Deans

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Springfield Technical Community College announced the appointments of two new academic leaders, Mary Lou Vredenburg as dean of the School of Liberal and Professional Studies, effective July 7, and Miah Dreger as dean of the School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), effective Aug. 4.

Both deans bring extensive experience in higher education and a shared commitment to student success, equity, and the mission of community colleges.

Mary Lou Vredenburg

Vredenburg, most recently associate dean of Faculty at Connecticut State Community College’s Manchester campus, brings a strong background in academic leadership. Prior to her role in Connecticut, she served as associate dean of Arts, Humanities, Mathematics, and Social Sciences at Brightpoint Community College in Virginia. She was also a full-time faculty member at SUNY Oneonta, gaining valuable insight into the teaching and learning experience that she now applies to her leadership role.

A proud community college graduate, Vredenburg began her academic journey at SUNY Orange. She holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Binghamton University and earned her PhD in humanities from Florida State University.

“Dr. Vredenburg brings a wealth of experience to the School of Liberal and Professional Studies,” said Christopher Thuot, vice president of Academic Affairs at STCC. “Her work across multiple states has exposed her to a broad range of student success strategies and national best practices. That experience will be invaluable as STCC continues to develop and implement initiatives aimed at improving student retention and completion. Dr. Vredenburg is an equity-minded leader with a deep commitment to students and to STCC’s mission.”

Miah Dreger

Dreger joins STCC following a distinguished career in Connecticut, where she held a variety of academic and administrative roles. She most recently served as interim associate dean of Engineering, Science, and Technology at Central Connecticut State University. She previously served in key leadership roles within the Connecticut State Community College system, including interim provost and vice president of Academic Affairs at the system level and dean of Academic and Student Affairs (chief academic officer) at Capital Community College in Hartford.

Dreger brings to STCC a broad range of expertise, including accreditation, strategic planning, grant leadership, equity and inclusion initiatives, and assessment and planning. Before transitioning into administrative roles, she spent more than a decade as a full-time faculty member at the community college level.

She earned her doctor of education degree in educational leadership from the University of Hartford, holds a master’s degree in technology education from Central Connecticut State University, and received her bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Houghton University.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Dreger to the STCC community,” Thuot said. “Her deep experience in both academic leadership and the classroom, combined with her proven commitment to student-centered, equity-focused practices, make her an ideal leader for our School of STEM.”

Three Associates Join Bulkley Richardson

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Bulkley Richardson recently welcomed three associates to the firm. Nicole Palmieri, Johannah Huynh, and Cameron Reis, all previous summer associates with the firm, returned this fall as associates. Palmieri and Huynh will concentrate their practice in litigation, while Reis will focus on transactional work, including business, mergers and acquisitions, construction, and healthcare.

Palmieri earned a juris doctorate, cum laude, from the University of Connecticut School of Law in 2024, where she was on the Connecticut Law Review and a University of Connecticut Scholar. She spent the past year clerking with the Connecticut Appellate Court. She received a bachelor’s degree, summa cum laude, in American studies from Christopher Newport University.

Reis recently earned a juris doctorate, magna cum laude, from Western New England University School of Law, where he concentrated his studies on transactional law and served as an editor of the Law Review. He was an Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. Scholar, a CALI award recipient, and was awarded the CATIC Foundation Award for Excellence in Real Property Coursework. He earned a bachelor’s degree, magna cum laude, in criminal justice at Pace University.

Huynh also recently earned a juris doctorate from Western New England University School of Law, where she received the Best Oral Advocate Award and was a member of the National Moot Court team. In addition to being a former summer associate, she served as a law clerk at Bulkley Richardson during her last year of law school. She earned a bachelor’s degree, summa cum laude, from UMass Amherst in social thought and political economy.

“It is great to see these three familiar faces back at the firm,” said Mike Roundy, hiring chair at Bulkley Richardson. “Each brings with them a unique perspective and skill set, coupled with a passion for the law. This combination adds tremendous value not only to the firm, but also to our clients.”

Florence Bank Launches First-time Homebuyer Program

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Daily News

FLORENCE — Florence Bank has launched a new first-time homebuyer program called Welcome Home, designed to help first-time buyers in Chicopee, Holyoke, and Springfield secure a mortgage for a single- or two-family home or condominium.

Two tiers of the program are available, Welcome Home and Welcome Home Plus. The Welcome Home mortgage offers a reduced interest rate, 100% financing, and a $1,000 lender’s credit, and does not require private mortgage insurance (PMI). The mortgage processing fee is also waived, and there are no income restrictions.

With Welcome Home Plus, borrowers receive all the benefits of the Welcome Home mortgage, plus an additional $10,000 lender’s credit for a total of $11,000 in credits. The processing fee is also waived, no PMI is required, and there are no income restrictions.

“The communities of Chicopee, Holyoke, and Springfield have historically been underserved when it comes to providing affordable first-time homebuyer programs,” Florence Bank President and CEO Matt Garrity said. “We’re pleased to be helping to build strong communities and providing opportunities for home ownership. Those goals are key components of our mission as a local community bank.”

Florence Bank has branches in Springfield and Chicopee, and a Holyoke branch is expected to open in the spring of 2026.

To learn more or apply, contact any Florence Bank branch or visit florencebank.com/welcome-home.

Massachusetts Business Outlook Remains Stable, but Slightly Pessimistic

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Daily News

BOSTON — Business confidence among Massachusetts employers remained stable — if slightly pessimistic — during August as employer sentiment bounced between a steady economy and policy uncertainty.

The Associated Industries of Massachusetts (AIM) Business Confidence Index (BCI) gained 0.4 points last month to 49.0, continuing to move in a narrow range just below the 50 reading separating optimism from pessimism.

The August BCI was 2.0 points less than the same month a year ago. It marked the sixth consecutive month that confidence remained in the pessimistic range. The results came amid mixed economic signals in both Massachusetts and the nation.

MassBenchmarks reports that the state economy grew at a solid 2.6% annual rate during the second quarter, but the 4.8% unemployment rate in Massachusetts during July was significantly higher than the national mark of 4.2%. National inflation, measured by the consumer price index, remained steady at 2.7% year-on-year in July. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell gave his clearest indication yet on Aug. 22 that the policy interest rate might be reduced as soon as September.

“The overall economic picture is complex, featuring a resilient stock market driven by AI optimism that contrasts with weaker consumer sentiment and a cautious Federal Reserve, which may cut interest rates soon. That complexity continues to color business confidence in Massachusetts,” said Sara Johnson, chair of the AIM Board of Economic Advisors (BEA), which oversees the BCI.

The AIM Index, based on a survey of more than 140 Massachusetts employers, has appeared monthly since July 1991. It is calculated on a 100-point scale, with 50 as neutral; a reading above 50 is positive, while below 50 is negative.

AIM President and CEO Brooke Thomson, also a BEA member, agreed that uncertainty has become the watchword for AIM’s 3,400 member companies.

“Whether you’re a student wondering about your future job prospects, a business owner navigating shifting markets, or a worker trying to make ends meet, economic uncertainty touches us all,” she said. “Emerging technologies like AI are reshaping entire industries. Changes in federal policy and funding streams have hamstrung the research, medical, and innovation industries that have long underpinned the state economy. Tariffs both imposed and threatened have changed the landscape of international trade, where Massachusetts companies sell $35 billion of goods and $42 billion in services each year to foreign markets. And central banks are walking a tightrope between fighting inflation and supporting growth.”

Eastern States Exposition Provides Grant to West Springfield Police Department

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Daily News

WEST SPRINGFIELD — Eastern States Exposition (ESE) has given a grant to the West Springfield Police Department to outfit two motorcycles with essential equipment, including computers, printers, cameras, and other traffic safety resources.

An unveiling of the upgraded motorcycles took place at the Brooks Building, ESE’s business offices, on Sept. 2. Attendees included ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy and members of his staff, West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt, West Springfield Chief of Police Jay Gearing, Sgt. Mike Reed, Officer Joe Reed, and Officer Shawn Knox.

This donation ensures that West Springfield police officers have the most-up-to-date technology and tools to enforce the rules of the road and assist traffic during the 17 days of the Big E as well as year-round. The presentation recognized the collaboration between the not-for-profit and the town.

“We have a longstanding relationship with Eastern States Exposition that goes back decades,” Gearing said. “The financial support that allowed us to put these computers on these motorcycles will prove to be an immense help. Those bikes are the same bikes that will help us during the Big E, but also with citations and traffic enforcement. No more going back and forth to the station — this will be much more efficient.”

UMass Amherst to Establish Nursing, Engineering Graduate Training Program

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Daily News

AMHERST — A UMass Amherst research team led by faculty from the Elaine Marieb Center for Nursing and Engineering Innovation (EMCNEI) has been awarded nearly $3 million to establish the nation’s first graduate training program designed to combine nursing’s hands-on patient care with engineering’s technical knowledge.

The five-year U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) award will create SHINE: Strengthening Healthcare Innovation through Nursing and Engineering. In partnership with Baystate Health, this program will tackle some of healthcare’s toughest challenges around the realities of patient care.

Its four main focal areas of work include streamlining healthcare workflow to ensure continuous, quality patient care; leveraging automation and robotics; improving the safety and usability of intravenous (IV) infusion pumps; and developing innovative healthcare products.

Nurses are experts in patient care, but too often they are required to adapt to products and tools designed without their input.

“Most of what nurses have been given are engineered tools,” said SHINE principal investigator Frank Sup, co-director of the Elaine Marieb Center for Nursing and Engineering Innovation and professor of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering. “Nearly everything nurses rely on for patient care has been engineered, yet, as the primary end users, they have rarely been included in the design process, leading to workflow inefficiencies and equipment that does not address the realities of clinical practice. We intend to change that.”

The EMCNEI has a successful track record of breaking down barriers between nursing and engineering. Established in January 2021 out of a long history of campuswide nurse-engineer collaboration, the center is now poised to expand its impact, Sup said. With support from the NSF grant, the center will further develop its interdisciplinary training program, with plans to recruit 28 PhD students from both nursing and engineering over the next five years, with the first cohort beginning in fall 2026. Graduates of the program will earn a certificate in healthcare innovation and entrepreneurship, equipping them for careers at the intersection of clinical care, technology and industry.

A fundamental part of SHINE is the partnership between EMCNEI and Baystate Health. By uniting frontline clinical expertise with the interdisciplinary academic resources and research at UMass, the collaboration ensures that new technologies are designed around the realities of patient care.

“This unique nurse-engineer partnership not only drives practical solutions for healthcare challenges in Western Massachusetts, but also serves as a blueprint for healthcare innovation nationwide,” said Karen Giuliano, EMCNEI co-director and joint professor at the Institute for Applied Life Sciences and the Elaine Marieb College of Nursing. “With its focus on usability, safety, and patient-centered design, the partnership has the potential to shape national standards, accelerate the translation of innovation into practice, and improve outcomes for both patients and providers.”

Herrell’s Ice Cream Wins City Beat News Spectrum Award for Service Excellence

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Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — Herrell’s Ice Cream of Thornes Marketplace in Northampton and the Mill District in Amherst is being honored as a winner of the City Beat News 2025 Spectrum Award for Service Excellence.

According to City Beat News, Herrell’s provides consistently great service and places great service as a top priority of its business, earning the highest annual rating for service by the Spectrum Award. Annually, out of the thousands of businesses that City Beat News researches, only a very small percentage performs to the level Herrell’s has reached. This is the second year Herrell’s has received a Spectrum Award from City Beat News.

“Herrell’s is honored to receive such a wonderful award,” said Judy Herrell, president of Herrell’s Ice Cream Corp. “We place customer service equally as high as the ingredients we use and the manufacturing of our ice cream. Our mission statement is ‘to offer the best, unique, and inspired ice creams, frozen desserts, and concoctions to satisfy all ages and flavor palates, using the finest ingredients and methods, served with smiles and bears.’ Our staff’s passion and compassion in their customer service is unsurpassed.”

Belt Technologies Welcomes Ryan Elliott as Vice President of Operations

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Daily News

AGAWAM — Belt Technologies, a manufacturer of PureSteel custom metal belt conveyor solutions, announced that Ryan Elliott has joined the company as vice president of Operations. Based in Agawam, Elliott will oversee operations at both Belt Technologies and its Canadian sister company, Wire Mesh Belt.

With more than 20 years of experience in the metals and manufacturing industries, Elliott brings a strong background in both engineering and executive leadership. He previously served as president of aerospace components manufacturer HarcoSemco and president of Deringer-Ney, a producer of precious metals and components. Earlier in his career, he held roles across commercial, engineering, and senior leadership positions.

At Belt Technologies, Elliott is responsible for overseeing the operational activities of both plants, directing the companies to achieve their production and financial targets. He works closely with manufacturing, purchasing, and quality teams to maximize resources and ensure customer expectations are met or exceeded. Key areas of focus include integrating Wire Mesh Belt into Belt Technologies’ systems and culture, driving improvements on the factory floors and fostering open communication across the workforce.

“Ryan’s leadership will have a direct impact on both Belt Technologies and Wire Mesh Belt as we continue to deliver high-quality solutions for industries worldwide,” said Denis Gagnon Jr., CEO of Belt Technologies. “His experience and vision will strengthen our operations and support our customers in meeting the most demanding production challenges.”

Elliott earned dual degrees in materials science and physics from Alfred University and holds multiple patents related to advanced materials applications.

1Berkshire to Host Open House at New Location on Sept. 4

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Daily News

PITTSFIELD — 1Berkshire invites its members and the public to attend an open house at its new Crawford Square location in downtown Pittsfield. The open house will be held at 137 North St., Suite 200 on Thursday, Sept. 4 from 4 to 6 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to network and tour the office space. 1Berkshire President and CEO Jonathan Butler will offer remarks at 4:30 p.m.

1Berkshire relocated to Crawford Square in January 2025 from its former office on Allen Street. It was essential for the organization to maintain a central presence, allowing it to effectively serve and access the 30 towns and two cities of Berkshire County. The relocation directly reflects 1Berkshire’s core values and purpose: to simultaneously preserve, position, and promote the Berkshires’ unique identity to foster businesses, attract visitors, and engage residents who strengthen the region.

The open house is a chance for 1Berkshire to welcome community members in to tour the new offices, observe the new 1Berkshire logo and colors displayed throughout, and meet and mingle with the 1Berkshire staff, who can provide information regarding all the services available to members.

U.S. News Ranks Hampden Charter School of Science First in Springfield Metro Area

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Daily News

CHICOPEE — Hampden Charter School of Science (HCSS) was ranked among the state’s best high schools by U.S. News & World Report in its annual Best High Schools ranking. The school ranked first among all public high schools in the Springfield metro area and placed 52nd in the state of Massachusetts.

“We are proud to be ranked the best public high school in the Springfield region and among the top schools in the Commonwealth,” CEO Tarkan Topcuoglu said. “It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, teachers, and families.”

The U.S. News Best High Schools rankings include data on more than 24,000 public high schools in 50 states and the District of Columbia. Nearly 18,000 schools were ranked on six factors based on their performance on state assessments and how well they prepare students for college. HCSS received 93.3 out of a possible 100 points in the rankings.

HCSS’s graduation rate played a role in its state ranking; the school graduated 95% of its class. Graduates have gone on to some of the most prestigious colleges in the country, including Harvard. U.S. News also noted that 86% of HCSS students are taking advanced placement courses, and that 77% are minority.

BusinessTalk with Gene Cassidy, President and CEO, Eastern States Exposition

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Business Talk Podcast Special Coverage

We are excited to announce that BusinessWest 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.

Go HERE to view all episodes

Episode 241: September 1, 2025

BusinessWest contributing writer George O’Brien talks to Gene Cassidy, President and CEO, Eastern States Exposition

Gene Cassidy understands that the Big E generates traffic jams outside the fairgrounds — and sometimes traffic jams inside the grounds as patrons flock to new attractions and food vendors. What he can’t understand is why some can’t look past those ‘good problems to have’ and see the annual fair as a true economic engine for the region, bringing money into the 413 and helping several sectors of the economy directly. This is one of many points he made in a wide-ranging discussion with BusinessWest contributing writer George O’Brien on the next episode of BusinessTalk. He also talks about the weather (as it pertains to the fair’s bottom line), the prospects for the 2025 edition, and what’s new — and old — for the show this year. It’s must listening, so tune into BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest.

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