People on the Move
Jim Sullivan
Joe McMahon
The O’Connell Companies announced that President Jim Sullivan will retire from his role effective June 1, concluding a distinguished 44-year career with the organization. Chief Financial Officer Joe McMahon has been appointed president and will continue to serve as CFO. Sullivan joined the O’Connell Companies in 1982 and has played a central role in the organization’s growth and evolution. He was named president in 2019 and has overseen the strategic direction and operations of the company and its subsidiaries, including its construction, real estate development, and property management divisions. Over the course of his tenure, Sullivan held several key leadership roles, including president of O’Connell Development Group and general manager of NEFCO. His leadership spanned significant milestones in the company’s history, including large-scale project execution, ownership transition, and long-term strategic planning. Sullivan will remain actively involved with the company as chair of the board of directors, supporting long-term strategy and ensuring continuity in leadership and governance. A native of Holyoke, McMahon has more than 25 years of experience in a broad range of industries in the Boston and Western Mass. markets. As CFO, he leads the company’s financial strategy and governance, with experience in acquisitions, mergers, and organizational restructuring. A certified public accountant and graduate of Bentley University, McMahon has worked with privately held, venture-backed, and family-owned businesses. His appointment reflects a planned leadership transition and the company’s focus on continuity and future growth.
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Michelle Theroux
Peter Benton, chairman of the board of directors of Sunshine Village, announced the appointment of Michelle Theroux as the next president and CEO of the organization. She succeeds Gina Kos, who will retire at the end of April after more than 30 years of leadership. Theroux brings more than 20 years of executive leadership experience in nonprofit, healthcare, and educational organizations. Most recently, she served as CEO of Berkshire Hills Music Academy in South Hadley for more than 12 years. Her earlier leadership roles included senior management positions at the Center for Human Development as well as Child and Family Services of Pioneer Valley, where she oversaw multi-site operations and expanded clinical services. She currently serves as chair of Mercy Medical Center, is a regional board member for Trinity Health Of New England, and sits on the boards of the ERC5 Chamber of Commerce and MicroTek. She also serves as chair of the South Hadley Redevelopment Authority. Her contributions have been recognized by BusinessWest, which named her both a 40 Under Forty honoree and a Woman of Impact. Theroux holds a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Springfield College and bachelor’s degrees in psychology and politics from Assumption University.
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Jessica Nicklin
Holyoke Community College (HCC) announced that Jessica Nicklin has accepted the position of HCC provost and vice president of Academic Affairs. She presently serves as associate provost for Faculty Affairs and Research and a professor of Psychology at the University of Hartford, where she has worked for nearly 17 years. Nicklin earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology as well as a PhD in industrial-organizational psychology from the State University of New York (SUNY) at Albany. Soon after completing her doctorate in 2009, she received an academic appointment at the University of Hartford as assistant professor of Psychology. Since then, she has risen through the academic ranks to tenured professor, while also taking on administrative responsibilities as program director, associate dean of Student Academic Services, associate vice president for Student Success, assistant provost for Graduate Studies and Research, and finally associate provost for Faculty Affairs and Research, a position she assumed in 2023. Her role at HCC begins July 1. A distinguished scholar in industrial-organizational psychology, Nicklin’s research focuses on workplace motivation, the work-family interface, and positive psychology. She is a prolific writer, consultant, and frequent speaker, and holds certifications in academic life coaching. She has received numerous awards and honors recognizing her scholarship, teaching, leadership, and service. In 2018, her alma mater, SUNY Albany, recognized Nicklin with its Outstanding Young Alumni Award.
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Katya Krasnova
Abby LaValley
Greenfield Cooperative Bank announced the addition of Katya Krasnova as vice president, mortgage originator to its residential lending team. Krasnova brings more than 14 years of banking experience to the role, with a strong background in residential lending. A familiar face to many in the community, she has built a reputation as a trusted resource for homebuyers and those looking to refinance, known for her thoughtful guidance and commitment to helping individuals and families navigate the homebuying process with confidence. Krasnova holds a degree in economics from Chuvash State University in Russia. In her new role, she will work closely with customers across the region, supporting their homeownership goals and continuing the bank’s commitment to personalized, local service. Greenfield Cooperative Bank (GCB) also welcomed Abby LaValley as assistant vice president and branch manager of its Amherst branch office, located at 390 College St. LaValley brings more than 20 years of local banking experience to the role, having previously served as an assistant manager at two community banks in the region. Her deep knowledge of the local market and commitment to customer relationships make her a strong addition to the GCB team. A graduate of the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, LaValley holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing. In her new role, she will oversee daily operations at the Amherst branch while continuing to build meaningful relationships with customers and support the financial needs of the community.
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Baystate Winair announced that Dan Suse Jr. will assume the role of president. With a robust background in the industry and a deep commitment to customer service, he is ready to lead Baystate Winair into its next chapter while upholding the values that have made it a trusted name in the region. Suse brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his new role. He has been with Baystate Winair for six and a half years and has consistently demonstrated integrity and a strong work ethic. He is an ambassador with the East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce, showcasing his dedication to community engagement and local business development.
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Timothy Wighton
Stone House Properties LLC announced that Timothy Wighton has joined the team as a licensed real estate professional, bringing a blend of deep local heritage and extensive global leadership experience to the team. Raised in the heart of Southern Berkshire County, Wighton’s roots in the region run generations deep, with family history grounded in South Egremont, Great Barrington, and Mill River. An outdoor enthusiast since childhood, he learned to ski at Butternut the year it opened in 1964 and remains an active hiker on the trails of South County today. After a distinguished 35-year international career in clinical research and strategic leadership — which took him to major hubs like London, Brussels, Seattle, and San Francisco — he returned home to the Berkshires in 2023. He has since dedicated himself to the restoration of his 1766 home in Otis. Wighton’s background in high-stakes project management and negotiation allows him to navigate complex real estate decisions with disciplined execution and clarity. His lifelong passion for property is evidenced by his hands-on experience in home rehabilitation projects across the U.S. and Europe.
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Matthew Parise
Pittsfield Cooperative Bank announced the appointment of Matthew Parise as its new vice president, director of Facilities and Real Estate. In this role, he will oversee all aspects of facilities operations, property management, and long-term real estate planning. He will play a key role in ensuring all locations remain safe, efficient, and aligned with the organization’s evolving needs. Parise brings more than 28 years in managing building operations, leading capital improvement projects, and optimizing real estate portfolios at Beacon Bank, formerly Berkshire Bank, and Key Bank. His leadership will support ongoing efforts to maintain high-quality environments while positioning the organization for future growth.
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Charles Robertson
Greylock Federal Credit Union announced the hiring of Senior Vice President Charles Robertson, who joins the Retail Services team. He will be responsible for leading Greylock’s branch network, Contact Center, member-facing technology, and strategic retail initiatives. In this role, he will provide enterprise-level leadership across deposit growth, member retention, direct lending support, and experience optimization. Before moving back to Massachusetts, Robertson served as executive vice president and chief retail officer at Kitsap Bank in Port Orchard, Wash., where he directed the operations for the 15-branch, $1.7 billion community bank. In this role, he spearheaded the sales and service program and was responsible for executing multiple strategic initiatives including retail, mortgage, consumer lending, wealth management, business development, leading the learning and development team, and overseeing branch modernization and remodels. He is a graduate of Saint Joseph’s College of Maine and Pacific Coast Banking School at the University of Washington.
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Alan Wosky
Belt Technologies, a manufacturer of PureSteel custom metal belt conveyor solutions, announced the retirement of President Alan Wosky after more than three decades of leadership. A Navy veteran who served as a machinist mate 1st class qualified in naval nuclear power plants, Wosky has been central to the company’s growth, innovation, and engineering excellence. He guided Belt through major advancements in precision metal belt systems, expansion into global markets, and the development of a strong technical culture that continues to define the company today. Following his retirement, Wosky’s responsibilities have been assumed by the Belt management team, with oversight from Rich Lunden, director of Engineering.
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Whittlesey announced that members of its Technology and Cybersecurity team have earned key Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) credentials, strengthening the firm’s ability to support government contractors and subcontractors across the defense industrial base. As Department of Defense cybersecurity requirements continue to evolve, these certifications position Whittlesey to help organizations navigate CMMC readiness with clarity and confidence. The following Whittlesey professionals have earned CMMC credentials: Mark Torello, certified CMMC professional (CCP); and Hadas Boyles and Carlos Ortega, CMMC registered practitioners (RP). In addition, Whittlesey’s Technology team holds a broad range of industry-recognized certifications, including CISA, CRISC, CISSP, and CEH, reflecting deep expertise in cybersecurity, risk management, and IT controls.
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Rachael Cavanaugh
Rush Insurance Group announced the addition of Rachael Cavanaugh to its team as an employee benefits associate. In this role, she will support the agency’s growing employee benefits practice, working alongside clients to deliver thoughtful, attentive service in the life and health insurance space. Cavanaugh brings a strong foundation in the insurance industry, having launched her career at Safety Insurance following her graduation from the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, where she earned a bachelor of business administration degree in operations & information management with a certificate in business data analytics. During her time at Safety Insurance, she gained hands-on experience across personal and commercial underwriting, the service center, and customer representative operations, most recently serving as a personal lines analyst. Cavanaugh is currently pursuing her life and health insurance licensure and is committed to building the expertise needed to serve as a trusted resource for Rush’s clients.
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John Williams
Jacob Johnson
Monson Savings Bank announced the promotion of John Williams to branch manager of the Wilbraham branch. Williams, who previously served as assistant branch manager at the bank’s East Longmeadow location, brings more than 11 years of banking and financial services experience, strong leadership abilities, and a deep commitment to exceptional customer service. In his new role, he will oversee the daytoday operations of the Wilbraham branch, guide and develop branch staff, and advance branch growth through new deposit account relationships. He will also continue strengthening local community connections through volunteer efforts and outreach initiatives. Before joining Monson Savings Bank, Williams worked at Fifth Third Bank in Sarasota, Fla., where he served as a personal banker assisting customers with new accounts, lending, maintenance, and retirement planning. His career also includes experience with additional financial institutions, contributing to his strong operational foundation and relationshipbuilding skills. He is active in the community as a member of the Western Mass Referral Exchange (BNI Group) and regularly volunteers to support local initiatives. Monson Savings Bank also announced that Jacob Johnson has joined the bank as assistant branch manager of the Hampden branch. Johnson brings a strong background in customer-focused relationship management and financial services to Monson Savings Bank. In his role, he supports the day-to-day operations of the Hampden branch, assists with staff development, and works directly with customers to provide a full range of personal and business banking solutions. He is focused on delivering personalized, attentive service that fosters trusted, long-term customer relationships. Prior to joining Monson Savings Bank, Johnson spent six years locally with Balise Ford of Wilbraham, most recently serving as a Finance and Insurance manager. In that role, he developed extensive experience assisting customers with financing options, financial products, and relationship-based service. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Westfield State University. In the community, he and his family support the YMCA of Greater Springfield, where his children participate in youth programs, and he is a dedicated supporter of Empty Arms Bereavement Support, participating annually in the organization’s Syrup Stampede 5K to raise awareness and funds for families experiencing pregnancy and infant loss.
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Laura Townes, an Edward Jones financial advisor in Northampton, recently received the firm’s exclusive Spirit of Caring Award, designed to recognize financial advisors who exemplify the values, culture, and spirit of giving back. Townes has demonstrated unyielding dedication to giving back, which has positively impacted her clients, colleagues, and community. The award is given to only one financial advisor in each of the firm’s 334 regions and is determined by a vote of their peers. “Edward Jones is a partnership. That structure is not just financial; it’s a philosophy,” Townes said. “We work together, help each other, and all share in the rewards of working with long-term individual investors. That brings out the best in everyone. I am humbled to be this year’s recipient of the Spirit of Caring Award.” Townes was presented with the award at her Edward Jones regional meeting in Hampden.
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Sarah Murphy
Market Mentors LLC, a full-service marketing, advertising, and public relations agency, announced the promotion of Sarah Murphy to director of Operations. Having begun her career at the agency as an intern, Murphy has advanced through roles including account coordinator, traffic manager, and director of Resource Management. Throughout her tenure, she has played a key role in managing workflow, aligning resources, and strengthening project management processes across the agency. In her new role, Murphy will oversee day-to-day operations and provide senior oversight to ensure the agency is delivering at the highest level across the board. She will focus on strengthening teams, building structure and accountability, and supporting continued growth. Murphy was named to BusinessWest’s 40 Under Forty class of 2021, recognizing her professional achievements and community involvement. She serves as vice president of the board of the Foundation for TJO Animals, supporting fundraising and outreach efforts for local animal welfare initiatives. She earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Lasell University.
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The Massachusetts Housing Partnership (MHP) announced that Rachel Heller has officially begun her role as executive director, marking an exciting new chapter in the organization’s impact on affordable housing in Massachusetts. With a track record of success and a deep and personal commitment to housing affordability across the state, Heller brings a wealth of expertise, vision, and leadership to MHP. As executive director of MHP, Heller will play a pivotal role in creating more housing opportunities, making a direct and tangible difference in the lives of thousands of families across Massachusetts. This includes leading implementation of MHP’s strategic plan. MHP is a public, nonprofit organization that expands access to affordable housing and promotes housing equity in communities across the Commonwealth. In September, after 40 years of leadership, Executive Director Clark Ziegler announced his retirement, effective at the end of March.
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Wellpoint recently recognized Steve Athas as an honoree in its Hometown Heroes program during a celebration held at Picknelly Field. In partnership with 98.5 the Sports Hub Bruins Radio Network, this initiative celebrates the contributions of individuals in public service across Massachusetts, shining a spotlight on everyday acts of dedication and kindness. For more than 50 years, including 48 years at Greenleaf Community Center in Springfield, Athas has dedicated himself to supporting youth through sports, recreation, and mentorship. In addition to his work with the Springfield Parks Department, he spent 35 years in Springfield Public Schools as a teacher and assistant principal. His lasting impact has earned him recognition in the Western Massachusetts Baseball Hall of Fame, and in 2024, the city of Springfield named a street after him.
