Jennifer McNeill

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) has appointed two new members to its board of directors whose backgrounds in education, economic mobility, talent development, and community leadership closely reflect the organization’s mission of preparing young people for future success.

Allison Kline

Through their work supporting workforce pathways, educational access, and professional development, both leaders bring perspectives that will help strengthen JAWM’s efforts to equip students with the skills, confidence, and connections needed to thrive in school, careers, and life.

Joining the board are Jennifer McNeill, senior program officer for Education and Economic Mobility at the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts; and Allison Kline, executive director of Talent Acquisition at Northwestern Mutual and CEO of Restoration Chaos.

“Our board plays a critical role in helping Junior Achievement connect students with meaningful opportunities and real-world skills,” JAWM President Amie Miarecki said. “Jennifer and Allison each bring valuable experience and perspectives that align strongly with our mission and the evolving needs of young people throughout Western Massachusetts.”

The board of directors supports JAWM’s efforts to deliver programs focused on financial literacy, career readiness, and entrepreneurship for students across Western Mass. Board members also help strengthen partnerships with schools, businesses, and community organizations throughout the region.

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) will host its 28th annual golf tournament on Friday, June 5 at Crumpin-Fox Golf Club in Bernardston, inviting community members and business leaders to enjoy a day of golf while supporting programs that empower local youth.

The event begins with registration at 8 a.m., followed by a 10 a.m. shotgun start. The tournament offers participants a top-tier golfer package in support of JAWM’s mission to prepare young people for success in work and life.

Proceeds from the tournament directly fund JAWM learning experiences provided to students ages 5-25 throughout Western Mass. and beyond. These programs focus on financial literacy, career readiness, and entrepreneurship, equipping students with the skills and confidence they need to thrive.

“This tournament is a great way for our community to come together and make a real impact on the lives of young people,” said Amie Miarecki, president of JAWM. “Every sponsorship and registration helps ensure students have access to experiences that prepare them for their futures.”

Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and individuals looking to support JAWM’s mission while gaining visibility at a well-attended community event. To register or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, email Amie Miarecki at [email protected].

SPRINGFIELD — Coming together to support the next generation, leaders from business, government, media, and the nonprofit community will gather in Springfield to benefit Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) and its work preparing young people for economic success.

The gathering takes place as part of JAWM’s annual Celebrity Bartending Fundraiser on Thursday, Feb. 26 at 5 p.m. at Nathan Bill’s Bar and Restaurant, 110 Island Pond Road, Springfield, with all tips raised supporting Junior Achievement programs serving students across the region.

Now entering its ninth year, the event has become a well-known community tradition that pairs an engaging, social atmosphere with a meaningful purpose. While participants take on a fun, unconventional role for the evening, the focus remains on advancing Junior Achievement’s mission of financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship education for young people throughout Western Mass.

“This event captures the spirit of our community in the best way,” said Amie Miarecki, president of JAWM. “When leaders from our business, government, and other important industries show their support of JA, they remind students and all of us that success comes with a responsibility to give back. The funds raised that night help open doors for young people who are building their futures.”

Guests can enjoy food, raffles, live entertainment, and a full cash bar while connecting with community leaders and supporting Junior Achievement’s impact on local students. Adding to the evening, state Sen. Jacob Oliveira will make a special appearance as a bonus bartender during the first shift, underscoring the broad-based support for JA’s mission.

Community leaders participating in the event include:
• Matt Bannister, PeoplesBank;
• Janna Brown, Western Mass News and TJO Foundation;
• Kristin Carlson, Peerless Precision;
• Nate Costa, Springfield Thunderbirds;
• Xiomara Alban DeLobato, Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council;
• DJ Onyx, Vision Entertainment;
• Dave Ferrence, PeoplesBank;
• Jeff Goulet, Loophole Brewing;
• Ryan Hess, Florence Bank;
• Rob Jones, USI Insurance;
• Danielle Langevin, Lock and Key Realty;
• Siobhan Matty, St. Germain Investment Management;
• Mary McGovern, Country Bank;
• Jorge Morgado, Allied Paint and Flooring and Budget Cabinet Sales;
• Dan Moriarty, Monson Savings Bank;
• Jeff Sattler, Liberty Bank;
• John “Sully” Sullivan, Nathan Bill’s Bar and Restaurant;
• Nate Tassinari, TD Bank;
• Attorney Chris Todd, Law Office of Chris Todd;
• Joe Williams, bankESB; and
• Heather Zielenski, Westfield Bank.

Proceeds from the event help Junior Achievement deliver hands-on learning experiences that connect classroom lessons to real-world careers and essential personal finance skills.

More information about the event and advance tipping opportunities is available at westernmass.ja.org/events/ja-s-celebrity-bartender-event-2026 or by calling (413) 747-7670.

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) is seeking sponsors and volunteers for its 20th Annual Stock Market Challenge, taking place on Tuesday, Nov. 18 at Western New England University in Springfield. This fast-paced Wall Street simulation offers student teams the chance to compete in an exciting, hands-on competition, building skills and experience they can carry into their futures. For sponsors, the event offers high-visibility recognition, a way to connect with the community, and the chance to inspire and support the next generation of financially savvy leaders.

“This is a special year for us, marking two decades of bringing the thrill of the stock market to life for local students,” said Amie Miarecki, JAWM president. “It’s so much fun to see how engaged and competitive the students are. The event is a fantastic opportunity for local businesses and volunteers to make a lasting impact while having a great time themselves.”

During the simulation, which runs from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., teams made up of 350 middle and high school students are each ‘given’ $1 million to invest in more than 50 fictitious stocks. With trading days lasting just 60 seconds, the goal is to build the highest portfolio net worth in a frantic 60 days.

Students walk away not only with a deeper understanding of the stock market and the importance of teamwork, but also greater awareness of financial services and career opportunities in the field. By introducing students to concepts of investing and financial decision making early, the event helps cultivate a talent pipeline of young people who are better prepared to pursue careers in finance, business, and related industries.

In the evening, the competition heats up for the adults, with dinner followed by the opening bell at 6 p.m., when corporate sponsors and college teams put their trading skills to the test.

“The adults have as much fun as the students, and it makes for a fantastic team-building experience,” Miarecki said. “We offer sponsorship opportunities starting at $250 and welcome companies across the region to get involved.”

For more information about the JAWM Stock Market Challenge, sponsorships, and volunteering, visit jawm.org/stock-market-competition.

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) is now welcoming nominations for its 18 Under 18 class of 2025. This event shines a light on the outstanding achievements of young people throughout the region who exemplify innovative spirit, leadership, and community involvement. The event’s major sponsors include Teddy Bear Pools and Spas, Holyoke Community College, Savage, and the UPS Store.

“We believe in the power of uplifting and celebrating the hard work of our young people,” said Amie Miarecki, JAWM president. “There are so many who stand out in the community. We hope teachers, mentors, coaches, parents, and others come to us with a big pool of nominations this year.”

Eligible students must be age 18 or younger and attend school in Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, or Berkshire county; Tantasqua, Quabbin, or Quaboag regional school district; or the state of Vermont. Click here to submit a nomination.

Judging criteria are divided into three categories: innovative spirit, leadership, and community involvement. The deadline for nominations is Tuesday, April 1, and each requires a supporting letter of reference and an academic submission.

Finalists will be selected for interviews, and winners will be notified several days later. Recipients will be honored at an event on Monday, May 19 at Storrowton Carriage House, with public recognition and access to a network of community leaders and peers.

Organizers are also inviting local businesses to sponsor this award. Anyone interested can email Miarecki at [email protected].

Nicole Baltazar

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) recently welcomed Nicole Baltazar as its new Education Pathways director. In this role, she will be overseeing traditional, experiential, and entrepreneurial learning experiences, guiding their alignment with JAWM’s mission and objectives to meet the needs of the community.

Baltazar’s responsibilities will include a particular emphasis on stakeholder engagement, especially coordinating volunteer and educational partners. This will involve recruiting, training, supporting, and recognizing these contributors. She will also manage administrative programming procedures to uphold quality standards for the organization, ensuring adherence to program models and evaluating impact to deliver high-quality educational experiences.

“I’m thrilled that Nicole has joined our team,” said Amie Miarecki, JAWM president. “She comes with more than 20 years of experience in the field of early education and care, is a strong advocate for youth, and enjoys mentoring and coaching.”

Baltazar is director I and II qualified through the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care. She holds a bachelor’s degree from UMass Amherst’s University Without Walls Program, with a concentration in early education and administration. In her previous role, she served as center director for Valley Opportunity Council in partnership with Holyoke Public Schools’ Commonwealth Preschool Partnership Initiative.

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) is hoping its annual Celebrity Bartending Fundraiser will give its budget a beneficial boost. This is the eighth year JAWM has held the event, which is scheduled for today, Feb. 27 from 5 to 9 p.m. at Nathan Bill’s Bar and Restaurant, 110 Island Pond Road, Springfield. All celebrity bartender tips from the evening will benefit JAWM.

“We have such a great group of bartenders this year from a diverse range of industries,” said Amie Miarecki, JAWM president. “It’s always gratifying to meet with those who support our work at Junior Achievement in this fun and relaxed setting.”

The event will include a full cash bar, menu options, raffle tickets, and live music from Maxxtone. Celebrity bartenders include Cassie Sarno of the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office; Nate Costa of Springfield Thunderbirds; Amy and Nicki Jamrog of Jamrog Group; Jeremy Casey of SR Commercial Realty; Kristin Carlson of Peerless Precision; Jeff Goulet of Loophole Brewing; Joe Williams of bankESB; Nicole Polite of MH Group; Dawn Creighton of Liberty Bank; Danielle Langevin of Lock & Key Realty; Ashley Batlles of Beauty Batlles Lounge; Brian Canina of PeoplesBank; Daniel Moriarty of Monson Savings Bank; Mychal Connolly of Stand Out Truck; Dom Santaniello and Luke Giusto of Naples Real Estate; Jorge Morgado of Allied Flooring and Budget Cabinet Sales; Carla Cosenzi of TommyCar Auto Group; Tim Suffish of St. Germain Investment Management; and Lenny Underwood of Upscale Socks.

“In the past, funds raised from this event have helped us provide support for school-aged students with valuable lessons in financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship,” Miarecki said. “We’re hoping for a great turnout for this fun celebration.”

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) is seeking sponsors and volunteers for its 19th annual Stock Market Challenge on Thursday, Nov. 7 at the Cedars in Springfield. The event offers student teams the chance to compete in an exciting Wall Street simulation, gaining skills and experience they can use in the future.

“It’s so much fun to see how engaged and competitive the students are,” said Amie Miarecki, president of JAWM. “This event is a fantastic opportunity for local businesses and volunteers to help students throughout the region while having a great time themselves and inspiring the future financial leaders of tomorrow.”

During the simulation, which runs from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., approximately 350 middle- and high-school student teams are ‘given’ $1 million to invest in more than 50 fictitious stocks. With trading days lasting just 60 seconds, the goal is to build the highest portfolio net worth in a frantic 60 ‘days.’ At the end of the event, students leave with a sense of how the stock market works and valuable insight into the importance of teamwork.

During the evening, the adults get in on the fun. Dinner is held at 5:30 p.m., and when the opening bell rings at 6:30 p.m., corporate sponsors and college student teams have their own opportunity to flex their stock-trading skills.

“The adults have as much fun as the kids, making this friendly competition a great team-building opportunity for employers,” Miarecki said. “We offer a variety of sponsorship opportunities starting at $250, and are inviting companies across the region to participate.”

Major sponsors currently include St. Germain Investment Management (presenting sponsor), Elms College (educational sponsor), and Country Bank (gold sponsor).

For more information about the JAWM Stock Market Challenge, sponsorships, and volunteering, visit jawm.org/stock-market-competition.

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) announced the addition of seven new members to its board of directors. They are:

• Corey Caron, managing director at Northwestern Mutual;
• Mychal Connolly Sr., founder and CEO of Stand Out Truck and Marketing and Cupcakes;
• Susan Fearn, vice president and Treasury Management officer for Liberty Bank;
• Ana Parrelli, vice president, Member and Employee Relations, LUSO Federal Credit Union;
• Nicole Polite, founder and CEO of the MH Group;
• Teremar Rodriguez-Vazquez, assistant general counsel at Health New England; and
• Joseph Williams, vice president, Commercial Lending at bankESB.

“We are honored to welcome these board members and appreciate their enthusiasm and commitment,” said Amie Miarecki, president of JAWM. “They have a wealth of regional business experience, and their insights will allow us to forward our mission to provide economic education and financial-literacy programs to students throughout the area.”

JAWM also announced these updates to its executive committee:

• Board co-chair: Tracy Alves-Lear, practice manager at Baystate Financial;
• Board co-chair: Terrell Joyner, financial advisor at Charter Oak Financial and founder of the Consulting Web; and
• Treasurer: Susan Fearn, vice president and Treasury Management officer, Liberty Bank.

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) held its annual EnTEENpreneur Challenge, a Shark Tank-like entrepreneurial pitch contest, on April 25 at the UMass Amherst Center at Springfield in Tower Square.

Individual students or teams pitched their products to a judging panel consisting of representatives from sponsoring organizations. Each team had two minutes to convince the panel to fund their company. At the end of the competition, two students from Pathfinder Tech emerged victorious with their team, Dread Horror Depot.

“During this event, students gain valuable skills, using JA learning experiences, including creating a business plan, developing a product, and pitching,” said Amie Miarecki, JAWM president. “It’s thrilling to see the passion and pride they put into their pitches; the competition was fierce. We are impressed with the efforts of these entrepreneurs and congratulate the winners.”

Second place was awarded to a student from Putnam Vocational, and third place went to another student from Pathfinder Tech. Recognition was also given to students with the Most Innovative Booth and the Best Tradeshow Booth, as well as five Realistic Standout Awards sponsored by standouttruck.com and Realistic CEO.

First prize is $500 in prize money and a scholarship to Elms College, second prize is $350 in prize money, and third prize is $250 in prize money. The judging panel included Tracey Alves-Lear of Baystate Financial, Terrell Joyner of Financial Guide, Mychal Connolly of Stand Out Truck, Wesley Days of UMass Amherst Center at Springfield, and Sarah Sargent of Valley Community Development. Sponsoring organizations included the UPS Store, Savage Arms, UMass Amherst Center at Springfield, standouttruck.com, and Realistic CEO.

The winning student teams that have a ready-for-sale product to showcase are eligible to submit their plan to the JA USA National Student Leadership Summit held annually in Washington, D.C.

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) is now welcoming nominations for its 18 Under 18 class of 2024, presented by Teddy Bear Pools and Spas. This event provides an opportunity to recognize outstanding young people throughout Western Mass. who exemplify innovative spirit, leadership, and community involvement.

“This is the third year we are holding this event, and after the high caliber of nominees we received during first two years, we’re even more excited to review this year’s candidates,” said Amie Miarecki, JAWM president. “As we have seen, there are many students who are making meaningful impacts in their local communities across our service area. We encourage teachers, youth-group leaders, mentors, parents, or other community members to submit nominations.”

Nominations must be submitted by Friday, April 12. The judges will then select finalists to interview via Zoom. The final 18 will be notified of their selection in late April.

Recipients will be honored at an event at Tower Square in Springfield on Thursday, May 16. They will also be featured in various local media outlets and benefit from a meaningful new network of community leaders and peers. They may also receive additional opportunities through event partners.

Nominations are open to students age 18 or younger who attend school in Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, or Berkshire county; Tantasqua and Quaboag regional school districts; or the state of Vermont. Involvement in JAWM programs is not required; however, it is considered favorably during the evaluation process. A letter of reference and an academic submission to support the nomination are required.

The judging criteria is divided into three categories: innovative spirit, leadership, and community involvement. For more information about the criteria and the event, or to request a nomination form, email [email protected].

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) invites the community to its celebrity bartending fundraiser on Wednesday, March 6 from 5 to 9 p.m. at Loophole Brewing, 51-59 Taylor St., Springfield. All celebrity bartender tips from the evening will benefit JAWM.

“This is our seventh year holding this event, and my first as president, so I’m especially excited,” said Amie Miarecki, president of JAWM. “I’m looking forward to meeting so many JAWM supporters. Our goal is to raise $10,000 this year. We appreciate the support we receive from the community, and especially want to thank our celebrity bartenders who are donating their time and enthusiasm.”

The event will include a full cash bar, food options, a raffle, and live music from Maxxtone. Celebrity bartenders will include:

• 5-5:45 p.m.: Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno; Hampden County Sheriff Nicholas Cocchi; Jim Kelly, Polish National Credit Union; Nate Costa, Springfield Thunderbirds; and Al Kasper, Savage Arms.

• 5:55-6:40 p.m.: State Sen. Jake Oliveira; Senator Adam Gonzalez; Amy Jamrog, the Jamrog Group; and Chris Marion, Chris Marion Photography.

• 6:50-7:35 p.m.: Meghan Rothschild, Chikmedia; Matt Maguire, PeoplesBank; Jeremy Casey, SR Commercial Realty; and Kristin Carlson, Peerless Precision.

• 7:45-8:30 p.m.: Brian Houser, Balise Motor Group; Mike “Bax” Baxendale, WAQY Rock 102; Dan Moriarty, Monson Savings Bank; and Jeff Goulet, Loophole Brewing.

“We’re hoping for a great turnout for this fun celebration and fundraiser,” Miarecki said. “Donations will support our workforce-readiness, entrepreneurship, and financial-literacy programs, which are offered to schools and community groups across Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire counties, as well as part of Worcester County and Vermont.”

Junior Achievement was founded in Springfield in 1919. Today, JAWM is part of the nation’s largest organization dedicated to giving young people the knowledge and skills they need to own their economic success, plan for their futures, and make smart academic and economic choices.

To learn more about the event or tip a specific bartender in advance, visit jawm.org/celebrity-bartender or call (413) 747-7670.

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) announced it has received a $10,000 donation from the Joseph & Anna C. Dias Jr. Family Foundation, in partnership with LUSO Federal Credit Union, to fund age-appropriate financial-literacy programs for students in Ludlow.

“It is an honor to once again work with LUSO Federal Credit Union, through the generosity of the Joseph and Anna C. Dias Jr. Foundation, to bring our programs to the young people in Ludlow,” said Jennifer Connolly, JAWM president. “Volunteers from the credit union, along with community and business volunteers, routinely donate their time and talents to inspire and prepare students at St. John the Baptist School, East Street School, and Harris Brook Elementary School to succeed in their futures.”

Maria Gomes, trustee for the Joseph & Anna C. Dias Jr. Family Foundation, added that “we are pleased to partner with LUSO Federal Credit Union to support the mission of Junior Achievement to deliver age-appropriate financial-literacy programs to local students in Ludlow schools. The connection between the school and the business community is important to help students understand how what they are learning will be applied in their personal and business life.”

JAWM programs are offered at no cost to schools and community groups throughout the four counties of Western Mass.

“We are delighted to coordinate the volunteers for JA with our employees, including having many of our employees teach classes,” said Sharon Dufour, chief financial officer at LUSO Federal Credit Union. “We view the JA program as a real-life learning extension of our school banking program, and we thoroughly enjoy the time we spend in the classrooms engaging with the students and teachers.”

SPRINGFIELD — There is still time to register for the 25th annual Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) Golf Tournament on Friday, June 9 at the Crumpin-Fox Club, 87 Parmenter Road, Bernardston.

“It is our 25th year holding our very popular golf tournament at this gorgeous location,” said Jennifer Connolly, JAWM president. “You’ll enjoy a fantastic golfer package and outstanding customer service as you help keep our valuable programs for students throughout Western Massachusetts going strong.”

Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., and the tournament kicks off with a shotgun-start scramble at 10 a.m. Golfers will also enjoy a lunch of barbeque chicken and ribs at the turn, and drinks and appetizers at the 19th hole. The prize package includes a $100 gift card to the pro shop that can be used anytime during the season at Crumpin-Fox or Fox Hopyard Golf Club in Haddam, Conn., and buy-two-get-two-free passes at Crumpin-Fox or Fox Hopyard good through the 2023 season.

JAWM programs are offered at no cost to schools and community groups throughout the four counties of Western Mass., as well as in Vermont. For more information or to register for the tournament, visit jawm.org/annual-golf-tournament.

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) will hold a Purse & Power Tool Bingo fundraiser on Friday, June 2 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus on 371 Washington Road, Enfield, Conn.

Event participants will enjoy 10 rounds of bingo, each with the opportunity to win a designer handbag or a power tool. Registration fees will support JAWM programs and events for youth throughout Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, and Berkshire counties.

“In addition to our popular annual events, we are always looking for unique and engaging ways to fundraise, and this event promises to be tremendous fun,” said Jennifer Connolly, JAWM president. “It’s also a great way to increase the community’s awareness about Junior Achievement and how our programs help inspire and prepare young people to succeed in our global economy. We are grateful to 2 Moms on a Mission for organizing this special night.”

Guests are welcome to bring food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy, and there will be a cash bar. Registration costs $40 per person, which includes 10 bingo cards and a dauber. Raffle tickets and extra cards will also be available for purchase.

Admission must be purchased in advance through paypal.me/2MomsOnAMission or via Venmo @Two-MomsOnA-Mission. Include the date of the event when purchasing tickets.

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) will hold its Bowl-a-Thon on Friday, Feb. 17 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Shaker Bowl in East Longmeadow. Registration fees will support Junior Achievement programs and events for youth throughout the region.

“We’re looking forward to this fun, family-friendly evening of bowling, pizza, and contests,” said Jennifer Connolly, JAWM president. “In keeping with our Music Legend Night theme, we will award prizes for the best group, male, and female music-legend costumes. We encourage people to come as a family or with friends and co-workers for this great night for a great cause.”

There are three levels of participation for bowling teams of four to five people: Perfect Game ($400), which includes T-shirts, three strings with shoe rental, a special JA gift per team, two large pizzas, soda, popcorn, and one alcoholic drink per adult player; Strike ($300), which includes T-shirts, three strings with shoe rental, a special JA gift per team, one large pizza, soda, and popcorn; and Spare ($200), which includes T-shirts, three strings with shoe rental, and a special JA gift per team.

For more information or to register, visit jawm.org/bowl.

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts is getting assistance from a local auto dealer for one of its educational programs about car ownership. Balise Auto Group volunteers will present JA All About Cars, a Junior Achievement program that explores the personal-finance considerations that go into purchasing a vehicle, to nearly 200 students in six area high schools during December.

“We are thrilled to be taking part in this program,” said Alex Balise, director of Marketing for Balise Auto Group. “It is so important for teenagers to understand the ins and outs of vehicle ownership before they start shopping. We hope sharing our knowledge with local students will make them more confident when that time comes.”

JA All About Cars programs are funded by a grant from American Honda Finance Corp. Through the program, students make a real-world connection to the car-buying experience, motivating them to make good financial decisions when buying or leasing. Following participation in the program, students will be able to consider whether a dream car is a realistic purchase for most people, explore their driving needs and things to consider when choosing a car, identify a car that meets their needs, and research the cost and understand the pros and cons of financing or leasing a car.

“JA All About Cars combines two things we are passionate about at AHFC: cars and financial literacy,” said Petar Vucurevic, vice president of American Honda Finance Corp. “The lessons taught by Junior Achievement will help teens make smart financial decisions throughout their lives, and we’re proud to be a part of that mission.”

Jennifer Connolly, president of Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM), added that “buying one’s first car is both exciting and daunting. JA All About Cars introduces students to the essential costs related to buying and operating a first car and offers tips on being smart consumers when purchasing vehicles. We are grateful to American Honda Finance Corporation for providing the funding to allow JAWM to offer this program to our students. And with the knowledgeable and experienced volunteers from Balise Auto, we can provide teens with the critical information they need to make more informed decisions when it comes to vehicle ownership.”

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) announced the hiring of a new development director, William Dziura. He will work to plan and evaluate fundraising campaigns and activities; secure financial support from individuals, foundations, and corporations; and develop further relationships with the community.

“We are thrilled to have William joining our team,” said Jennifer Connolly, president of JAWM. “We offer our programs at no cost to schools and community groups, meaning our fundraising efforts are paramount to our success, making this position a vital role within our organization. I believe, with his unique background and experience in education and giving, William will be very successful in this role.”

Dziura earned a bachelor’s degree in English and history from Elms College and a master’s degree in English literature from Trinity College. Most recently, he held the position of director of Annual Giving at the Elms, while simultaneously working as an adjunct professor. Prior to his career in fundraising, he worked as an eighth-grade English teacher at Mater Dolorosa School in Holyoke, and director of Student Engagement and Leadership at the Elms.

“I am excited to help Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts realize a bold, 21st-century vision to benefit the children and young adults of Western Massachusetts,” Dziura said. “We owe it to today’s students to provide comprehensive workforce readiness, entrepreneurship, and financial-literacy education. I am honored to be a part of an organization with over a 100-year track record of bringing these valuable programs to the local community.”

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) held its annual EnTEENpreneur Challenge on May 7, naming three sophomores from the business technology program at Pathfinder Regional Technical High School the winners of the virtual competition. Sean Moon, Cody Ostiguy, and Max Sanderson received top honors for Private Pockets, a teen business that sells ties with hidden pockets in the back for customers to store business cards, cash, and credit cards.

“We are so proud of all the students who participated, especially since the virtual nature of the competition added extra challenges,” said Jennifer Connolly, president of JAWM. “It was a hard decision for our judges, but the Private Pockets team really checked off all the boxes. We congratulate them on their success.”

The EnTEENpreneur Challenge is a regional teen pitch contest in which teams create a comprehensive business plan and product idea for a small business and pitch it to a team of judges, similar to the reality show Shark Tank.

The concept for the ties was the brainchild of Moon, but Ostiguy and Sanderson helped bring the idea to fruition. The team would like to expand their company at some point to include socks with pockets in them.

Judges for the event were provided by its sponsors and included Wesley Days, UMass Springfield; Amanda Garcia, Elms College; and Mychal Connolly, Stand Out Truck. The winning team received a $5,000 scholarship to Elms College, a $500 cash prize, and their photos featured on a Stand Out Truck roaming billboard truck.

“This is the second year we held this popular event virtually due to the pandemic,” Connolly said. “We hope to return to a live format next year.”

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) announced it will hold its 23rd annual golf tournament on Friday, June 4 at the Crumpin-Fox Club in Bernardston.

“Last year, we successfully held this event following social-distancing guidelines, and we plan to do the same this year,” said Jennifer Connolly, president of JAWM. “This is a wonderful opportunity for people to get outside at a gorgeous location, enjoy a fun day of golf, and support an incredibly worthwhile cause.”

In addition to the golf tournament, participants can enjoy online bidding for the auction through June 3 and live bidding at the event on June 4. Social-distancing regulations will include requiring players to wear masks in common areas, providing each player with their own cart, and a scramble format with all putts inside three feet conceded, with flags remaining in the holes.

Businesses can sponsor the tournament and will receive a prize package valued at over $200. The package includes a $100 gift card to the pro shop, buy-two/get-two passes for Crumpin-Fox or Fox Hopyard Golf Club in Connecticut good through the 2022 season, and other gifts, such as Yankee Candle items. If they prefer, sponsors can opt to receive a voucher for their foursome valid through the 2022 season.

“We’ve worked diligently to create a flexible event that will be enjoyable and safe for everyone,” said Al Kasper, president and CEO of Savage Arms and chair of this year’s golf tournament. “I encourage businesses throughout the region to participate in this event. Supporting the work of Junior Achievement is a commitment to the growth and development of the next generation of our local workforce, which is essential.”

In addition to a round of golf, an auction, and a raffle, golfers will enjoy a gourmet boxed breakfast at 10 a.m. and lunch served on the course around noon.

“While the pandemic changed how JA delivered programming, from in-person to virtual, our students are receiving more JA programming than ever before, with each student averaging 24 hours of our programming, up from 6.2 hours in 2018-19,” Connolly said. “The proceeds of the golf tournament will go to support these in-demand classes and future JA events.”

To learn more about registration and sponsorship opportunities, visit jawm.org/annual-golf-tournament.

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) announced that Nicole Fregeau has joined the organization as program manager.

“We’re thrilled to have Nicole on our team,” said Jennifer Connolly, president of JAWM. “She brings skills, experience, and new ideas inspired by her intensive, hands-on work in the educational field. She’s a terrific asset to Junior Achievement and to the students we reach every day.”

In her new role, Fregeau builds program expansion through strategic planning and presentations designed to recruit and renew commitments of teachers, schools, local businesses, and volunteers. To increase public awareness of JAWM programs, she creates departmental plans and develops and executes volunteer orientation programs. She coordinates the Business and Entrepreneurial Exploration (BEE) summer program as well.

Prior to joining JAWM, Fregeau spent a year in Thailand teaching students at various levels to speak, read, and write in English. In addition, she screened candidates for open positions and consulted with potential students during the enrollment process, edited curriculum, and participated in school programs like English Camp and Scout Camp. As an established Junior Achievement volunteer in the U.S., Fregeau also taught JA’s “More than Money” program to sixth-grade students in Thailand.

Fregeau is a graduate of Elms College with a bachelor’s degree in business management. She participated in Elms College campus ministry service trips to Nicaragua, where she worked on clean-water and education projects.

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts has been awarded one of Junior Achievement USA’s highest honors: the Five Star Award.

The purpose of the award is to recognize staff and boards of JA areas that meet Junior Achievement’s national standards in operational efficiency and through strong representation of the JA brand. Recipients must demonstrate growth in student impact and superior fiscal performance. Achievement against these criteria is certified through JA USA and audited financial statements.

Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts, which serves more than 13,000 students throughout Western Mass. and Vermont, will be presented with the award in July at Junior Achievement USA’s National Leadership Conference in Colorado Springs, Colo.

“These Star Award winners represent the best Junior Achievement has to offer,” said Jack Kosakowski, president and CEO of Junior Achievement USA. “They set the standard by which Junior Achievement’s success is measured at the local level. Their commitment and dedication to young people is reflected in their achieving this honor.”

As an organization, Junior Achievement understands that its effectiveness depends on how well JA areas deliver the organization’s financial-literacy, work-readiness and entrepreneurship programs in local communities.

“We are thrilled to receive the Five Star Award,” said Jennifer Connolly, president of Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts. “We thank our more than 470 classroom volunteers and corporate partners who joined with our board of directors and staff to empower thousands of young people to own their economic success, plan for their future, and make smart academic and economic choices.”