Excel Dryer’s Denis and Nancy Gagnon Honored at Service Above Self Luncheon

EAST LONGMEADOW — Excel Dryer Inc. owners Denis and Nancy Gagnon were recognized last week at the 15th annual Service Above Self Luncheon, hosted by the Springfield Rotary Club and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. The Gagnons were celebrated for their long-standing commitment to community service and philanthropy. The event was made even more meaningful as Denis Gagnon and NBA legend Julius Erving, who received the national Service Above Self Award, were college athletes in the same year at UMass Amherst.

The Gagnons have supported nearly two dozen organizations across Western Mass., including Western New England University, Helix Human Services, Springfield Museums, Junior Achievement, UNICEF USA, American Red Cross, Max Cares Foundation, Special Olympics, Springfield Rescue Mission, YMCA of Greater Springfield, and more. Their philanthropic work reflects their philosophy that “a strong community supports you, and you support it right back.” They were also recognized for their commitment to U.S. manufacturing, keeping Excel Dryer products made in America and supporting the regional workforce.

“Success comes with responsibility to give back. What these nonprofits do is help people get through difficult times, enhancing the quality of the community we all call home,” Denis Gagnon said. “Giving back is very important, and it has been our philosophy for many years, not for accolades, but because it is the right thing to do.”

The luncheon was emceed by former 22News anchor Rich Tettemer. Michael Kelley, president of the Springfield Rotary Club, emphasized that Service Above Self reflects the club’s dedication to improving the community, while Frank Colaccino, president of the Colvest Group and treasurer of the Hall of Fame, noted the honorees’ commitment to strengthening lives locally and nationally.