WESTFIELD — Westfield State University joined educators, students, and advocates at the Massachusetts State House to mark a historic milestone in inclusive higher education: the Commonwealth’s first official proclamation designating May 1 as Inclusive Postsecondary Education (IPSE) Day.

The proclamation formally recognizes the importance of expanding access to higher education opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Massachusetts. Westfield State’s Inclusive Postsecondary Education (WIPSE) program played a leading role in initiating and advancing the request for the proclamation, helping secure the first formal statewide recognition of IPSE in Massachusetts history.

WIPSE Program Director Lyndsey Nunes said the designation reflects both progress and continued momentum.

“This proclamation marks an important step forward in expanding inclusive higher education across the Commonwealth,” she noted. “We are grateful to [Gov.] Maura Healey for recognizing Inclusive Postsecondary Education Day and reaffirming Massachusetts’ commitment to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“This recognition reflects more than 15 years of progress, strengthened by the 2022 Creating Higher Education Opportunities law,” Nunes continued. “Inclusive higher education benefits not only students, but also campuses, communities, and the workforce. I am especially grateful to have served as program director at Westfield State University for the past 13 years, where sustained institutional support has helped WIPSE students thrive alongside their peers.”

Students from Westfield State’s WIPSE program participated in the State House event, touring the historic building, gathering on the grand staircase for photos with the proclamation, and celebrating alongside representatives from peer institutions across the state.

The event highlighted strong collaboration across Massachusetts’ IPSE community, with institutions coming together to commemorate the designation and reaffirm a shared commitment to expanding inclusive higher education opportunities.

Representatives from Bunker Hill Community College, Middlesex Community College, and UMass Lowell joined the celebration. Mary Price, state director for the Massachusetts Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment Initiative at the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education, and state Rep. Sean Garballey also met with students and provided a tour of the State House.

Westfield State University’s leadership in inclusive postsecondary education reflects its broader institutional mission to create accessible, supportive, and transformative learning opportunities for all students.

WESTFIELD — Westfield State University President Linda Thompson has appointed Robert Ziomek as vice president for Institutional Advancement.

A seasoned higher education leader, Ziomek brings more than three decades of experience in fundraising, alumni engagement, and mission-driven philanthropy. Throughout his career, he has helped institutions strengthen financial sustainability, expand access to education, and advance strategic growth initiatives aligned with institutional priorities.

Ziomek has held advancement leadership roles at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA), Western New England University, and Johnson & Wales University. He previously served as assistant vice president of Advancement and University Relations at Westfield State from 2000 to 2010, where he helped strengthen alumni engagement and philanthropic support during a period of institutional growth.

A graduate of Holyoke Community College and MCLA, Ziomek brings regional ties and a longstanding commitment to public higher education.

“We are pleased to welcome Bob back to Westfield State University,” Thompson said. He brings extensive experience in advancement leadership and a strong understanding of our institution and region. As we prepare to launch a comprehensive capital campaign to support the university’s long-term strategic priorities, Bob’s expertise and established relationships will be instrumental in strengthening engagement with alumni, donors, and partners who share our commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience for our students.”

As vice president for Institutional Advancement, Ziomek will oversee fundraising, alumni relations, and external engagement efforts to enhance and build philanthropic partnerships that expand opportunities for current and future students. He will begin his duties on April 21.

WESTFIELD — Westfield State University is now accepting applications for the next paramedic program cohort starting in September. This program is designed to establish a direct career pathway for emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to advance to paramedics.

Students will benefit from a comprehensive curriculum, expert faculty, and state-of-the-art training facilities. The program includes one year of classroom instruction followed by clinical, field, and capstone internships, and can be completed in 12 to 18 months with an accelerated track. To meet the diverse needs of working students, the program offers an optional hybrid live lecture model enabling remote participation with the in-person classes. Hands-on skills labs are held in-person.

After completing the didactic phase of the program last December, the inaugural paramedic cohort has transitioned into field and clinical internships. Students are now building hands-on experience with regional healthcare systems and emergency response partners, including Cooley Dickinson Hospital, Holyoke Medical Center, and Mercy Medical Center; fire departments in East Longmeadow, Longmeadow, Southwick, and Westfield; and EMS providers such as Chapin Ambulance, Northern Berkshire EMS, and Cataldo Ambulance.

As EMS agencies across the region continue to face staffing shortages, increasing call volumes, and expanding demands for advanced prehospital care, graduates of Westfield State’s paramedic program will play a vital role in strengthening emergency medical services and ensuring timely, high-quality care for residents. Westfield State ensures the curriculum reflects industry standards, equipping students with the skills and expertise needed for immediate employment in emergency medical services.

Prospective students can visit www.westfield.ma.edu/paramedic for detailed admission requirements and program specifics for the next cohort.

WESTFIELD — On Tuesday, April 7, Westfield State University will hold two events to offer students an inside look at the realities of modern healthcare while highlighting the broad range of academic pathways available at WSU.

The first, a healthcare simulation program from 9 to 10:15 a.m., will welcome more than 140 high school students from across the region for a hands‑on healthcare exploration event featuring the university’s signature Interprofessional Longitudinal Healthcare Simulation. The second, from 4 to 6 p.m., will feature a Community Action Poverty Simulation, an interactive exercise for Westfield State students designed to emulate some of the challenges faced by those living in poverty.

In the Interprofessional Longitudinal Healthcare Simulation, high school students will follow the medical journey of a fictional 65‑year‑old patient whose unexpected health emergency sets off a multi‑stage trajectory through emergency care, hospitalization, rehabilitation, and life back in the community. This immersive experience showcases how healthcare professionals from different disciplines work together to support a patient over time. This unfolding case study takes place on stage with current students depicting the various healthcare roles.

Following the simulation, students will engage directly with faculty and students from multiple healthcare‑related majors, including nursing, emergency medical services, social work, psychology, health sciences, movement science, athletic training, occupational therapy assistant, physician assistant studies, music therapy, biology (pre‑medical), theatre arts (simulation support), and many others. Each discipline will host hands‑on activities and demonstrations to help students explore the wide variety of careers available in today’s healthcare system.

Participants will conclude the day with a guided campus tour, offering them the chance to explore WSU’s academic spaces, simulation laboratories, and student support resources.

As the Commonwealth and the nation continue to face growing shortages in essential healthcare professions, Westfield State University recognizes its critical role in strengthening the workforce pipeline. The university has expanded its academic offerings, partnerships, and experiential learning programs to address both regional and national healthcare workforce gaps, ensuring students are career‑ready and prepared to serve communities in need.

“This event gives high school students the opportunity to truly see themselves in healthcare,” said Jessica Holden, associate dean of Healthcare Workforce Initiatives. “By showing how many pathways exist and how interconnected the professions are, we hope to inspire the next generation of practitioners who will help meet the workforce needs of Western Massachusetts and beyond.”

The Interprofessional Longitudinal Healthcare Simulation is part of WSU’s broader strategy to create accessible pathways into in‑demand fields, support early career exploration, and increase the number of qualified professionals entering the healthcare workforce.

Also on April 7, from 4 to 6 p.m. in Scanlon Hall, Westfield State University students from various departments will participate in a Community Action Poverty Simulation. This immersive exercise transforms the room into a mock community, challenging participants to navigate a simulated month of poverty, condensed into four 15-minute weeks.

To emulate the constant barriers faced by low-income individuals, each student is assigned a specific persona, such as a single parent or a senior citizen. Working within a family unit, they must manage limited funds to secure food and shelter while navigating real-world hurdles like job loss, transportation failures, and healthcare crises. By interacting with onsite resources representing banks, employers, and social services, students move beyond statistics to gain a profound sense of empathy.

Ultimately, this simulation bridges the gap between classroom theory and community reality. By confronting these systemic obstacles firsthand, the next generation of leaders is better prepared to advocate for compassionate, effective social solutions for their future clients and neighbors.

WESTFIELD — Westfield State University will host the third annual Dora D. Robinson Speaker Series on Thursday, March 26 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Dever Stage in Parenzo Hall. The event continues a growing campus tradition dedicated to honoring leadership, advancing equity, and celebrating the transformative impact of women in public life.

Established by University President Linda Thompson, the series commemorates Women’s History Month while honoring the legacy of Dora Robinson and her dedication to uplifting and empowering women across professions and communities. Through her lifelong advocacy, Robinson broadened opportunity throughout Western Mass. and helped shape a more just, equitable, and inclusive region where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive.

This year’s keynote speaker is Regina Wallace-Jones, a dynamic, mission-driven leader whose career spans technology, entrepreneurship, and public service. Wallace-Jones has held senior leadership roles in the technology sector, guiding organizations through growth and innovation while maintaining a strong focus on expanding civic participation and strengthening democratic institutions. As an elected official, she advanced policies promoting equity, access, and community empowerment. Currently, she serves as president and CEO of ActBlue, where she leads the development of campaign technology.

The event will be emceed by Nicole Nalepa, an award-winning broadcast journalist and media host with more than 15 years of experience in television and digital storytelling, and a graduate of Westfield State University.

A reception with hors d’oeuvres will follow in Scanlon Banquet Hall, providing attendees an opportunity to connect, reflect, and continue the conversation inspired by Wallace-Jones’s remarks.

The event is free and open to the public; however, registration is required as space is limited. Click here to register.

WESTFIELD — Westfield State University announced new workforce development programs launching in March to address priority skill gaps across the Pioneer Valley and Western Mass.

Employers across the region continue to seek professionals with expertise in supply chain operations, logistics, project management, and human resources — functions critical to operational efficiency, compliance, and organizational growth in healthcare, manufacturing, distribution, and public sector organizations. Westfield State’s expanded workforce offerings are designed to support both upskilling incumbent workers and preparing career changers for in-demand roles.

New offerings include a supply chain warehousing certificate program, which builds foundational skills in warehousing, inventory management, and distribution operations. The program complements the university’s existing certified supply chain professional (CSCP) exam preparation program, which prepares participants to pursue a globally recognized credential in supply chain planning and operations.

Additional spring offerings include project management professional (PMP) exam preparation, designed for professionals managing complex, cross-functional initiatives, as well as the university’s long-standing SHRM certification prep+ program, supporting HR professionals navigating workforce planning, labor compliance, and talent retention challenges.

Through these programs, Westfield State University continues to strengthen the regional talent pipeline by aligning short-term, industry-recognized credentials with employer demand and economic development priorities. For program details, start dates, and costs, visit www.campusce.net/westfield.

Alexander Moore

WESTFIELD — Alexander Moore, assistant professor of Mathematics at Westfield State University, has been invited to serve as a co-chair for the Philosophy of Mathematics and Mathematics Education research group at the 16th International Congress on Mathematical Education (ICME), taking place in Prague in July 2028.

As the premier global forum for the field, ICME is held every four years under the auspices of the International Commission on Mathematical Instruction. The congress brings together thousands of researchers, educators, and policymakers to exchange innovations in curriculum development, pedagogy, and assessment. The upcoming 2028 event follows the 2024 congress in Sydney, Australia, which drew more than 2,300 international delegates.

“The team of five people to lead each research group must be selected from around the world to represent the vast diversity of mathematical traditions and their education,” said Jesse Johnson, professor of Mathematics and chair of the Mathematics Department at Westfield State. “By being invited to serve as a co-chair, it is evident that Alexander is seen as one of the most influential Americans researching in the philosophy of mathematics education; he has been invited to effectively represent the U.S. for the entire field.”

Moore will lead a diverse, five-person international leadership team consisting of two co-chairs and three vice chairs. In this capacity, he will oversee the direction of the research group, co-author position papers, and serve as an editor for the resulting scholarly reports. These documents are vital to the discipline, frequently evolving into influential edited volumes and published research that drive the worldwide development of mathematics education.

“This opportunity demonstrates Alexander’s profound impact on his field and the respect he has earned through his own research and contributions to the study of mathematics education,” Johnson added. “It will further guide his own research trajectory in exciting ways. I commend and congratulate Alexander for this prestigious and well-deserved honor.”

WESTFIELD — The Davis Education Foundation has awarded Westfield State University a two-year grant of $449,980 to support the ongoing project “From Innovation to Impact: Scaling General Education Reform to Advance Westfield’s Integrative Student Experience.”

The grant will empower Westfield State to continue strengthening its general education curriculum by ensuring that learning outcomes, practice standards, and high-impact practices are fully integrated into redesigned courses. The funding will also permit Westfield State to formalize and expand its peer mentor program, an initiative that improves student leadership skills, engagement, confidence, and success.

In awarding the grant, the foundation’s trustees praised Westfield State’s effort to revise its general education curriculum as an “impressive undertaking by a dedicated group of professionals.”

The support of the Davis Educational Foundation will advance Westfield State’s strategic plan and strengthen its mission to foster the economic, social, and cultural vitality of the region by equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and character to lead with purpose and civic responsibility.

“We extend our gratitude to the Davis Educational Foundation trustees for their continued support in acknowledging the critical importance of cultivating an educational environment that is pertinent, timely, and effectively prepares students for success in the modern world,” said Linda Thompson, president of Westfield State University.

The Davis Educational Foundation was established by Stanton and Elisabeth Davis after Stanton’s retirement as chairman of Shaw’s Supermarkets Inc.

WESTFIELD — Westfield State University is introducing three new graduate programs, which have been recognized by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education for their strong alignment with community needs and student-centered design focused on access, flexibility, and success.

According to Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs William Salka, “our new graduate programs reflect Westfield State University’s commitment to meeting workforce needs across Western Massachusetts. The programs are designed to be flexible for students and provide employers with the advanced preparation they are looking for.”

A 30-credit, fully online master of business administration (MBA) program features three stackable 12-credit certificates in Business leadership, business analytics, and global sustainability for business. This flexible structure broadens access for adult learners, supports career mobility, and aligns with regional employer demand. Through experiential learning, industry-focused projects, and a strategic capstone experience, students will develop practical skills in areas like emotional intelligence, strategic planning, business analytics, and sustainable business practices. This hands-on approach ensures graduates are not only well-versed in theory, but fully prepared to apply their knowledge to complex business challenges. The MBA program may also be completed through a 4+1 pathway with a Westfield State undergraduate degree.

A 54-credit, fully on-ground master of science in athletic training (MSAT) program will enable students to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in five years and become eligible for athletic training certification upon completion. The program’s sequential, skills-forward curriculum has been recognized for its clarity and rigor. The program is is designed to equip students with the clinical skills, scientific knowledge, and ethical foundation needed to excel as entry-level athletic trainers. Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the Board of Certification Examination, the gold standard credential for athletic training professionals.

A 48-credit, fully online psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) program fills a vital community and workforce need by preparing advanced-practice clinicians in psychiatric mental health. Designed to support working nurses seeking career advancement, it will help address significant behavioral health provider shortages across the region. This graduate-level nursing degree equips registered nurses with the advanced clinical expertise and holistic skills necessary to assess, diagnose, and treat psychiatric and mental health conditions across all age groups. The PMHNP curriculum blends advanced nursing theory with specialized training in psychiatric assessment, differential diagnosis, psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, and mental health policy. Students complete a combination of coursework and supervised clinical practicum experiences, building the competencies needed to provide evidence-based, compassionate care in diverse settings.

Information about these and other graduate programs at Westfield State University can be found at www.westfield.ma.edu/academics/graduate-degrees. All programs are currently accepting applications and expect to welcome their first cohorts in the fall of 2026.

WESTFIELD — Registration is open for the spring 2026 Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic program offered at Westfield State University. Classes will be held primarily on Monday and Wednesday evenings, Jan. 21 to May 4, 2026, from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. In addition to these scheduled evening classes, the program also includes some additional Saturday morning classes.

The EMT program is a blended course consisting of an online component, face-to-face lectures, and clinical labs. Students are provided instruction on theoretical knowledge and skills, symptom recognition, and emergency care techniques pursuant to state and national protocols. The program utilizes real-world, live patient simulations. Students will also participate in scenario-based patient assessments, dynamic problem-based group exercises, and larger inter-professional healthcare collaborations working with other healthcare programs on campus.

Successful completion of an EMT Basic program and the subsequent state and national exams is a pre-requisite for the Paramedic program that begins at Westfield State every September.

The cost to register for this EMT Basic program is $1,125 which includes the required clinical, equipment, and practical exam fees. For more information on course pre-requisites or to register online, visit www.westfield.ma.edu/emt.

WESTFIELD — Westfield State University has been recognized as one of Massachusetts’ premier women-led businesses. The university earned a spot on the 2025 Top 100 Women-led Businesses list presented annually by the Women’s Edge and the Boston Globe. The winners were honored at an awards ceremony and celebratory breakfast event held on Oct. 24.

“We are honored to be chosen and be in the company of so many extraordinary business leaders in the Commonwealth,” said Linda Thompson, now in her fifth year as president of Westfield State University. “Our university is committed to providing a high-quality and affordable education, an effort that has generated a solid economic impact for students and workers in our region for decades. Our sustained influence helps shape the educational, financial, cultural, and economic prosperity of our local communities.”

The list, which features both for-profit and nonprofit organizations, was created by the Women’s Edge and published in the Boston Globe. Key factors in the evaluation of businesses included workplace and management diversity, board makeup, and innovative projects, alongside revenue or operating budget. The full list of honorees is available at www.bostonglobe.com/magazine.

Barney Garcia

WESTFIELD — Barney Garcia was elected as a student trustee for Westfield State University’s board of trustees for the 2025-26 academic year.

Garcia is a senior pursuing a bachelor’s degree in political science with a concentration in public administration and brings a record of public service and campus leadership to the board. He recently served as a Senate fellow for Massachusetts state Sen. Adam Gomez. In 2023, he also completed a Local Commonwealth Municipal Finance Fellowship through the Massachusetts Department of Revenue’s Division of Local Services.

Before transferring to Westfield, Garcia served a one-year term as the student trustee on Holyoke Community College’s board of trustees (2023-24), where he also completed an associate degree in business administration.

Garcia is the co-founder and president of the Queer Straight Alliance at Westfield State. In addition, he is a commuter representative on the Student Government Assoc. and previously served on the Commuter Council.

WESTFIELD — On Saturday, April 5, Westfield State University will recognize and induct seven alumni and one faculty member into the Criminal Justice Alumni Hall of Fame. The event will recognize graduates for their outstanding contributions to the field of criminal justice, including law enforcement, public service, and legal advocacy at the local, state, and federal levels.

For more than 50 years, Westfield State’s criminal justice program has been a leader in the Commonwealth, offering undergraduate and graduate students the knowledge and experience to excel in their careers.

This year’s alumni inductees include Melvin Arroyo, chief Probation officer in Palmer Court; Bill Chase, founder and CEO of Sound Judgment Solutions, recognized for his career as a leader and special agent for the FBI; John Deveney, NCIS special agent in Boston; Gregory Hennick, acting chief of the Provincetown Police Department; David Lambert, director of Roger Williams University’s Justice System Training and Research Institute; Michael McCabe, mayor of Westfield, former Westfield Police Department member, and Westfield State adjunct faculty; and John Moran, special agent and federal air marshal, recognized for his distinguished career and role in transforming the nation’s aviation security system after the 9/11 attacks. Alice Perry, Westfield State faculty member, former state prosecutor, and advocate of women in law enforcement, will receive the Dr. Victor Ascollilo Lifetime Achievement Award.

The ceremony will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Scanlon Banquet Hall on campus. For more information and to register to attend this event, visit westfield.ma.edu/cjhof.

WESTFIELD — Westfield State University announced the launch of its new Paramedic Program, beginning in April. Developed in collaboration with key healthcare providers and emergency-management organizations — including Cooley Dickinson Hospital, Holyoke Medical Center, and Mercy Medical Center; fire departments from East Longmeadow, Longmeadow, Southwick, and Westfield; and EMS providers from Chapin Ambulance, Northern Berkshire EMS, and Cataldo Ambulance — this program addresses the critical regional demand for highly skilled emergency medical professionals.

The program is designed to support workforce development by establishing a direct career pathway for emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to advance to paramedics. Through strong partnerships with employers in the field, Westfield State ensures the curriculum reflects industry standards, equipping students with the skills and expertise needed for immediate employment in emergency medical services.

Students will benefit from a comprehensive curriculum, expert faculty, and state-of-the-art training facilities. The program includes one year of classroom instruction followed by clinical, field, and capstone internships, and can be completed in 12 to 18 months with an accelerated track. To meet the diverse needs of working students, the program offers an optional hybrid live lecture, enabling remote participation with the in-person classes. Hands-on skills labs are held in-person.

Applications are now open for the inaugural class, starting April 15. Prospective students can visit www.westfield.ma.edu/paramedic for detailed admission requirements and program specifics.

WESTFIELD — On Monday, March 24 at 5:30 p.m., Westfield State University will welcome Carl Hulse, New York Times chief Washington correspondent, and Paul Kane, Washington Post senior congressional correspondent, for a presentation titled “The Future of the Fourth Estate: A Report from Washington, D.C.”

The event will take place in Scanlon Banquet Hall and is open to the public. The conversation will be moderated by Christopher Gullen, associate professor and chairman of the Communication Department. Charles DiStefano, associate professor of the Political Science Department and director of the Master of Public Administration, Policy, and Civic Engagement program at Westfield State, will provide the introduction.

Kane has covered Congress since 2000, when he started at Roll Call with a beat focused on the Senate. He joined the Washington Post in 2007. He began writing a regular column, “@PKCapitol,” on Congress and its interactions with the White House in 2017. His columns have covered Washington’s response to the global pandemic, the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, two impeachments, and the Biden administration’s legislative agenda on Capitol Hill.

Hulse has been a full-time journalist since graduating from Illinois State University in 1976 with a degree in communications. His first newsroom job was with the News-Tribune in LaSalle, Ill. He joined the New York Times in 1986, first as a correspondent for papers around the South owned by the Times, and eventually went on to cover the Capitol and the White House. He serves in several management roles, including Washington editor. He also writes the New York Times column “On Washington” and is the author of Confirmation Bias, an account of the political battle for the Supreme Court and the federal courts.

WESTFIELD — On Monday, April 7 from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m., the second annual Nonprofit Innovators Forum, titled “Innovating Through Uncertainty,” will take place at Parenzo Hall at Westfield State University, hosted by the Master of Public Administration, Policy, and Civic Engagement program.

This conference aims to expand training opportunities for leaders of small nonprofits in Western Mass. They will be joined by students and others considering a career in nonprofits in sessions to explore creative solutions that benefit their organizations and the communities they serve. The event is open to students and nonprofit professionals. Click here to register.

Self-doubt, unstable finances, resource shortages, and political-climate changes are just a few of the difficulties nonprofit leaders commonly encounter. Because these challenges may impede creativity and affect an organization’s capacity to carry out its objectives, this year’s forum will address these common concerns and provide attendees with strategies to foster resilience and adaptability within their organizations.

The event will begin with a plenary session that will address how recent changes in federal policy affect Western Mass. nonprofits. Participants will then have the chance to choose from a selection of small group sessions facilitated by nonprofit leaders and Westfield State University faculty and staff.

The topics covered in these sessions will include how to deal with a lack of resources, how to lead effectively during uncertain times, how to understand one’s own leadership style, how to create motivated leadership teams, and how to write strong grant application letters. Following the forum, there will be a networking reception where participants can meet like-minded individuals, business leaders, and possible partners.

Confirmed speakers include Rebecca Coolong, Human Service Forum executive director; Irene Eberwein, president, and Michael Roeder, treasurer, of Sarah Gillett Services for the Elderly Inc.; Liam Horsman, regional director of the office of U.S. Sen. Edward Markey; and Wilbert Weche, founder and CEO of Willful Change LLC.

In addition to exposing graduate students to a range of leadership viewpoints, this forum seeks to introduce undergraduate students to nonprofit career paths, offer training opportunities for small nonprofit organizations in Western Mass., and foster networking opportunities among participants. The event will also showcase the nonprofit management concentration in Westfield State’s Master of Public Administration, Policy, and Civic Engagement program.

WESTFIELD — Westfield State University announced its new law enforcement and mental health co-response graduate program, which is designed to address the growing need for collaboration between law enforcement and mental-health professionals. This degree-granting program, the first of its kind in the nation, is a concentration within the university’s master of arts in mental health counseling program or available as a standalone post-baccalaureate certificate.

Joseph Camilleri, professor of Psychology; Kimberly Tobin, professor of Criminal Justice; and Lisa Barao, visiting lecturer of Criminal Justice, were instrumental in developing this program. They worked closely with law-enforcement agencies across Massachusetts and Connecticut to create a curriculum that meets workforce needs and equips participants with tools for success in this emerging field.

“This groundbreaking program builds on Westfield State University’s strong legacy in criminal justice and psychology education,” said Nora Padykula, interim dean of the Division of Graduate and Continuing Education. “By being the first in the nation to offer this within a degree, we are not only addressing critical community needs, but also demonstrating our leadership in innovative, interdisciplinary education that bridges the gap between mental health and public safety.”

This comprehensive program covers essential topics such as the intersection of mental disorders and crime, relevant legal frameworks, and strategies for conducting rapid mental-health and risk assessments in the field. Students will gain in-depth knowledge and skills to understand mental-health disorders and their relationship to criminal behavior, as well as the broader criminal-justice system. Ultimately, this strengthens relationships between public-safety professionals and the communities they serve.

Emphasizing practical application, the co-response program includes research opportunities and culminates in a capstone project where students apply their learning in real-world scenarios.

The program is designed to reduce strain on emergency services, connect individuals to appropriate care and resources, and foster trust between community members and public-safety professionals. By bridging the gap between law enforcement and mental-health professionals, the program equips graduates to address critical public-safety challenges while supporting the mental-health needs of communities.

Jay Queenin

WESTFIELD — Jay Queenin has been appointed to the Westfield State University board of trustees. Queenin replaces trustee Madeline Landrau whose 10-year term ended March 1.

Queenin has worked in the Office of the Massachusetts Attorney General as director of Intergovernmental Affairs, assistant attorney general, and chief of Administration and Finance. He also has served as assistant district attorney in the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office.

For nearly 20 years, Queenin has been president and owner of Specialty Bolt & Screw (SBS) in Agawam, a privately held company founded in 1977. SBS provides inventory-management solutions to global original-equipment manufacturers and has approximately 300 employees in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Finland, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Queenin earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Providence College and a juris doctorate from Suffolk University Law School.

“Trustee Queenin’s global partnerships and legal and business experiences will be beneficial in advancing the mission of Westfield State University,” university President Linda Thompson said. “I look forward to the positive influence he will have as a member of the board of trustees.”

In accepting the appointment, Queenin said, “growing up on Western Avenue, Westfield State University has been part of my life for over 45 years. I appreciate the opportunity to be involved with this incredible university and its mission to prepare students to be the next generation of leaders. I look forward to working with President Thompson, the board of trustees, faculty, staff, and students to contribute in any way I am able.”

Michael O’Rourke

WESTFIELD — Michael O’Rourke has been appointed to the Westfield State University board of trustees. He replaces trustee Paul Boudreau, whose five-year term ended on March 1.

O’Rourke is a Westfield State University alumnus, having earned a bachelor’s degree in history with minors in English and secondary education in 1973 He has more than 10 years’ of experience serving on the Board of Assessors for the town of Ludlow, where he currently has the role of vice chairman. He is also member-at-large of the Westfield State Alumni Assoc. executive council.

His long history of committee service includes the Ludlow School Committee, Lower Pioneer Valley Educational Collaborative, the Massachusetts Advisory Committee on Athletics, the special education committee for the Massachusetts Assoc. of School Committees, and the board of directors of the Ludlow Chamber of Commerce.

“I am thrilled to accept this position to the Westfield State University’s board of trustees,” O’Rourke said. “I promise to bring my passion and dedication to the board, and I am truly humbled and honored for this opportunity. I will work diligently to uphold the trust that has been placed in me. As a trustee, I will remain focused on providing good stewardship of the WSU mission, reputation, strategic goals, and objectives. I look forward to working with President Linda Thompson and the board of trustees.”

Since 1975, O’Rourke has owned and operated Belmont Driving School, with locations in Ludlow and Belchertown. Previously, he taught social studies in Ludlow and Longmeadow public schools.

WESTFIELD — The Westfield State University Foundation has been awarded a $55,000 grant from the Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation in support of the Leadership, Excellence, Achievement, Diversity (LEAD) Scholars Program.

Westfield State’s LEAD Scholars Program provides holistic services for students who self-identify as first-generation and demonstrate a financial need, with a special focus on increasing the representation of students who may have historically been excluded from the benefits of a college education.

By providing extra support throughout their college journey, the LEAD Scholars Program helps students overcome the challenges they face as they work to achieve their academic and personal goals, increasing retention and graduation rates. The investment by the Davis Foundation will change the trajectory of students’ lives and increase future possibilities for their families and communities.

Westfield State University’s Urban Education Program was established in 1968 to provide college orientation, mentoring, and academic advising to students of color. In 2023, Urban Education modernized its structure and name to become the Leadership, Excellence, Achievement, Diversity Scholars Program. This update honors the 55-year legacy and founding vision of the Urban Education Program while highlighting the university’s continuing commitment to implementing educational innovations that cultivate excellence in all students, recognize their achievements, and celebrate the diversity that enriches the campus community.

WESTFIELD — Westfield State University, in partnership with the Washington D.C.-based Parker Group Academy, announced the launch of a new federal business-development program beginning this fall.

The focus of this program is to provide participants with the skills and techniques needed to create compliant and compelling proposals that result in funding. Course participants develop strategies for maintaining successful government partnerships and delivering quality service. The program’s course content was developed by experts with a proven track record of securing government contracts.

With real-world industry and federal government experience, Parker Group’s expertise is expected to benefit students, industry leaders, civilian government personnel, active military, veterans, guard members, and more.

The federal business-development program consists of four consecutive month-long courses beginning Oct. 15 and ending Feb. 27. Individual classes will be held live online on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m.

For more information regarding this program or to register online for courses, visit www.westfield.ma.edu/businessdev.

WESTFIELD — Westfield State University is currently accepting applications for the 2024-25 addiction counselor education (ACE) program. Classes will be held on evenings and weekends beginning in September 2024 and ending in August 2025.

The goal of this non-credit certificate program, offered at the university since 1991, is to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and techniques necessary for the successful treatment of individuals and families afflicted by alcoholism and/or other drug addictions. This program has been highly instrumental in the professional development of individuals in the Western Mass. area who are currently working in or interested in becoming a part of the growing healthcare field of addiction services.

The application and application instructions for the ACE program can be found at www.westfield.ma.edu/ace. For more information or to have an application mailed, contact Brandon Fredette at [email protected] or (413) 572-8033.

Tessa Lucey

WESTFIELD — Tessa Lucey has been appointed to the Westfield State University board of trustees. She replaces trustee and former Chairman Robert Martin, whose 10-year term ended March 1. He remained in holdover status by the governor’s office until Lucey’s appointment on May 6.

Lucey has more than 20 years of experience as a compliance officer, including extensive professional experience in healthcare and higher-education compliance, operations, labor relations, policy development, program implementation, investigations, government reviews, and audits.

She is currently director of Compliance Services and chief privacy officer at the University of Vermont in Burlington. Prior to this position, she was corporate Compliance officer and chief privacy officer at Hallmark Health System in Medford. Prior to her position at Hallmark Health, she was director of Compliance and chief privacy officer at South Shore Hospital in Weymouth.

In addition to her bachelor’s degree in business with minors both psychology and women’s studies from Westfield State University, Lucey earned a master of healthcare administration degree from Simmons College.

“Returning to Westfield State University as a trustee fills me with immense pride,” she said. “WSU not only provided me with the knowledge and skills to succeed in my career, but also provided me with a solid foundation to succeed in life. I am looking forward to giving back by working with the board and with university leadership to ensure the continued success and impact of the university for generations to come.”

The 11-member Westfield State University board of trustees is appointed by the governor. Each member is appointed for a five-year term, with the possibility of one additional term of five years.

“Tessa’s business and higher-education experience will complement the work of the board,” said Linda Thompson, president of Westfield State University. “Her connection as an alumna is certainly something we appreciate. Tessa’s connection with Westfield State makes this appointment meaningful and personal. I very much look forward to working with her as a board trustee.”

WESTFIELD — Westfield State University President Linda Thompson appointed William Salka as provost and vice president for Academic Affairs. Salka will begin his duties on July 5.

As Westfield State continues to build and reinforce systems, programs, and opportunities to enrich students’ academic experiences as well as the intellectual life of the university, Salka’s leadership acumen, scholarship, integrity, and collaboration are expected to serve Westfield State’s institutional mission and the diverse interests of the campus community.

Among talented candidates, Salka was distinguished by his academic leadership as provost for Eastern Connecticut State University for the past six years, during which time he was widely recognized as a champion of faculty scholarship and research and students’ academic pursuits. He believes in the importance of a dynamic undergraduate and graduate learning experience in which faculty and employees work cooperatively to develop the knowledge, skills, and character essential for students to become responsible leaders and engaged citizens.

“I am very excited about this great opportunity to join the Westfield State team,” he said. “I look forward to arriving on campus in July and getting to know my new colleagues.”

Salka received a bachelor’s degree in political science and government from Lewis & Clark College and a doctorate in political science and government from Colorado State University. Prior to serving as chief academic officer for Eastern Connecticut State University, he taught numerous courses in American government, environmental policy, and globalization in his capacity as professor of Political Science since 2000.

WESTFIELD — Westfield State University students in the “Advanced Public Relations” course are launching a campaign, “Literacy is Currency,” for Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services.

The mission of MLK Jr. Family Services is to strive to foster an environment that nurtures and empowers the aspirations of individuals, families, and youth to achieve new realities of peace, social and economic justice, self-determination, self-actualization, and self-sufficiency.

The students’ campaign will create awareness for the organization and collect donations that will provide funds for its literacy program. The campaign will also provide new books that children will be interested in and have fun reading.

In order to meet their goal, the students are inviting the community to join two events, featuring games, raffles, and prizes including Stanley cups, beach supplies, and Westfield State gear. The events take place on Saturday, April 20 from noon to 5 p.m. outside Target at the Holyoke Mall; and Tuesday, April 23 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. inside Tim and Jeanne’s Dining Commons at Westfield State University.

The public-awareness campaign will take place on social media via the handle @owlprmlk and use the hashtag #literacyiscurrencymlk.

“We’re delighted to enhance our alliance with Westfield State University with the ‘Literacy is Currency’ initiative, reinforcing literacy’s crucial role as both an empowering tool and a source of excitement about reading, in line with MLK Jr.’s vision that ‘education is the passport to the future’” said Karon Forde, director of Youth Programs at MLK Jr. Family Services. “This project not only reflects our commitment to literacy, but also supports our efforts to elevate reading levels and foster a love of reading among children in our afterschool program. We praise the students for their exceptional commitment to this cause and eagerly await the project’s impact on both the children we serve and the participating university students’ educational journey.”

Suzanne Boniface, adjunct professor of Communication at Westfield State, explained that the course partners with a local nonprofit each semester to help the community through its civic-engagement program.

“These public relations students use the skills they have acquired from their studies and gain practical experience for their future careers,” she said, noting that her students’ campaign will increase awareness of the efforts of Martin Luther Family Jr. Family Services and help them purchase necessary supplies for their program.

Donations to this campaign can be made by Venmo @LiteracyIsCurrency or by visiting mlkjrfamilyservices.org/donate.

WESTFIELD — On April 6, Westfield State University will recognize and induct six alumni into the Criminal Justice Alumni Hall of Fame. Inductees are recognized for their excellence in their chosen field and for their accomplishments in criminal justice and law enforcement at the state, federal, and local levels.

This year’s alumni inductees are Benjamin Campbell ’11 of the Maine State Police; David Campbell ’84, a retired special agent in the U.S. Department of Justice; Cheryl Clapprood ’92, Springfield Police superintendent; John Kotfila Jr. ’08, who served in the Sheriff’s Office in Hillsborough County, Fla.; Kenneth O’Connor ’87, a chief court officer in the Massachusetts Trial Court; and Jeffrey Trask ’02, a leader in emergency management and preparedness. Kim Tobin, professor of Criminal Justice, is also being honored for her distinguished service to Westfield State. Both Benjamin Campbell and Kotfila are being recognized posthumously.

The ceremony will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and commence in the Scanlon Banquet Hall on campus. Michael McCabe ’84, Westfield mayor, will deliver the opening remarks, followed by addresses from university President Linda Thompson and Nicholas Smith ’24, president of the Student Government Assoc. Brunch will take place afterward and precede McCabe and Alice Perry, assistant professor of Criminal Justice, presenting the honorees.

For more information and to register to attend this event, visit westfield.ma.edu/cjhof by April 2.

Westfield State University Associate Art Professor Imo Nse Imeh in his studio with his new portrait of Frederick Douglass, which was unveiled at Mechanics Hall in Worcester on March 14.

WORCESTER — Mechanics Hall in Worcester unveiled three commissioned portraits of 19th- century Black Americans at an event called “Beyond Frames” on March 14, as part of its Portraits Project.

Westfield State University Associate Art Professor Imo Nse Imeh contributed with his portrait of formerly enslaved civil-rights leader, orator, and writer Frederick Douglass. Other contributions unveiled included Worcester business owners and abolitionists William Brown and Martha Ann Tulip Lewis Brown, painted by Brenda Zlamany of Brooklyn, N.Y., and formerly enslaved abolitionist and women’s-rights activist Sojourner Truth, painted by Manu Saluja of Long Island, N.Y. The three portraits are the first to be added to the 167-year-old concert hall since 1999.

The Mechanics Hall Portrait Gallery is an installation honoring 19th-century Worcester innovators, social reformers, Civil War heroes, and political leaders.

“This is a historic moment for Mechanics Hall and our vibrantly diverse community,” said Kathleen Gagne, Mechanics Hall executive director and co-chair of the Portraits Project. “Many of the world’s most renowned performers take the Great Hall stage every year. They and their audiences will now share the hall with — and be inspired by — these striking paintings of Black Americans who lived extraordinary lives of courage. Our community, and especially our children, can look up to the individuals honored in the gallery with pride and hope.”

Imeh is a visual artist and scholar of African diaspora art. His work focuses on historical and philosophical issues around the Black body and cultural identity. His works are in the collection of the Petrucci Family Foundation Collection of African American Art; the University Museum of Contemporary Art at UMass Amherst; and the Danny Simmons Collection of Art, among others. Imeh is a recipient of the Mass Cultural Artist Fellowship, as well as grants from the Holyoke and Springfield Cultural Council and the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts.

WESTFIELD — Westfield State University will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly renovated Parenzo Hall on Friday, Oct. 13 at 11 a.m. at the entrance to the building.

The more than $40 million project, a partnership with Westfield State University and the Massachusetts Division of Capital Assets Management and Maintenance, started its planning phase in 2018 and was completed earlier this month.

The newly designed, 90,000-square-foot building will host Dever Stage, the Center for Student Success and Engagement, the Department of Education, the Department of Political Science, and the new Collaboration and Maker Space.

Parenzo Hall will also be home to Westfield State’s new Research, Innovation, Design, and Entrepreneurial (RIDE) Center, which will serve as a hub of innovation and workforce development in Western Mass., fulfilling the university’s stewarded agreement to engage students while partnering and collaborating with external stakeholders and community leaders.

RIDE will partner with MakerHealth, a division of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, which will outfit RIDE with equipment and modules that support transdisciplinary innovation, design, and entrepreneurial practices. Westfield State University will be the first undergraduate institution in the nation to establish this partnership.

Guided tours of Parenzo Hall will take place after the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

WESTFIELD — On Wednesday, Sept. 27, Westfield State University will host a “Conversation with Values Practitioners,” an evening dedicated to celebrating the work and life stories of individuals who, through the practice of values, build inclusive communities, inspire more equitable institutions, and contribute to a more just world.

Featured speakers include Janine Fondon, chair of Undergraduate Communications at Bay Path University and exhibit curator; Rhonda Anderson, an Iñupiaq-Athabascan woman from Alaska and commissioner on Indian Affairs in Western Mass.; and Ben Boyd, senior vice president of Global Communications at Peloton.

In bringing together community members across the diversity spectrum, including identity, thought, talent, and lived experience, the program will recognize and appreciate that identities are interconnected; celebrate the equity and inclusion efforts by faculty, staff, and students; and encourage opportunities for continued action.

Following the speaking program, the “Voices of Resilience” exhibit will be launched at Westfield State’s Arno Maris Gallery, on the second floor of the Ely Building. The display panels will showcase the stories of women and men who have worked to create change as well as untold narratives that reframe history. The exhibit will represent these achievements both visually and through inclusive storytelling. A panel is dedicated to Linda Thompson, president of the university.

The speaking program will run from 4:30 to 5:45 p.m. and take place in the Scanlon Banquet Hall, followed by the exhibit opening and its reception in the Arno Maris Gallery, which runs from 6 to 7 p.m. Both are free and open to the public.

Sponsors include the university’s Office of Human Resources, the Office of the President, the Values Working Group, the Ethnic and Gender Studies Department, and numerous collaborators throughout campus. External sponsors include the Massachusetts Cultural Council and Peloton.

WESTFIELD — Westfield State University will host its annual Government, Criminal Justice and Nonprofit Career Fair on Thursday, Oct. 12 from 1 to 3:30 p.m. in the Woodward Center, 395 Western Ave.

The fair offers a convenient opportunity for Westfield students and residents to network with employers and learn what it would be like to work for area nonprofits and government agencies.

Representatives from police departments throughout Massachusetts, Connecticut and New Hampshire will be available to answer questions and showcase their agencies to prospective employees. Some of the registered city and town agencies include Amherst, Holyoke, Northampton, and Westfield, as well as Enfield, Conn. Registered state police agencies include Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York.

Registered nonprofits and government agencies include May Institute, Center for Human Development, Gándara Center, Match Education, Peace Corps, ServiceNet, Wellpath, and the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security.

The job fair is free and open to the public. Parking is available in the South Lot off Western Avenue. Shuttle service will run continually throughout the event.

WESTFIELD — The Westfield State University board of trustees elected Ali Salehi to serve as its chair, while trustees Melissa Alvarado and Gloria Williams were elected as vice-chair and secretary, respectively. Daniel Currier, class of 2025, was elected to the board as student trustee.

Salehi serves as managing director of Hansen Engineering and Machinery Co. Inc. of Danvers. A former board member of the Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce, the Westfield State University Foundation, and the Westfield Redevelopment Authority, Salehi is a current trustee of Suffield Academy and a former vice chair of the Baystate Health Foundation. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a master’s degree in engineering management from Western New England University.

Alvarado is an assistant vice president in strategic planning and delivery at MassMutual Financial Group and, prior to that, worked in its compliance and information-technology organizations. She previously served as clerk of the Westfield State Foundation and was a member of the Westfield State Alumni Assoc. executive council. In addition earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Westfield State in 1999, Alvarado holds an MBA in finance from Western New England University and earned an executive certification in leadership and management from the University of Notre Dame.

Williams is an educational consultant and leadership mentor who previously completed a 21-year tenure as a master principal for Springfield Public Schools. Her service in education, including as a representative for the Superintendent’s Advisory Committee, was recognized when she received the 2019 Educational Legacy Achievement Award, presented by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Williams is also president of the consulting firm Coalition of Experienced Black Educators Inc. and the newly elected president of the board of directors for Families Against Violence. She earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Westfield State College in 1977 and a certificate in advanced graduate studies, a M.Ed., and a Ed.D. from UMass Amherst.

Currier was elected by the student body in April to serve as Westfield State’s student trustee for the 2023-24 academic year. A junior with majors in accounting and finance with minors in economics and English, Currier was formerly vice president for Finance for Westfield State’s Student Government Assoc., is president of the Accounting Club, and serves as a campus tour guide, new-student-orientation leader, and peer tutor. Currier is also a Commonwealth Honors Scholar and received the Executive Excellence Award from the Westfield State University Student Government Assoc.

WESTFIELD — David Caruso will join Westfield State University as temporary provost and vice president for Academic Affairs on Aug. 1.

With more than 35 years of higher-education experience, Caruso brings a strong background in the classroom, as a researcher, and an administrator. “Dr. Caruso’s deep commitment to academic excellence and student success was evident throughout our selection process, and I am confident he will serve our community well while he is with us,” President Linda Thompson said.

Caruso’s experience as a leader in higher education will play an important role to advance WSU’s concept of IDEAS — innovation, diversity, engagement, and advancement — that ultimately leads to student success.

“I am very pleased to have been selected to serve the Westfield State University community as temporary provost for the coming academic year,” Caruso said. “I have a deep commitment to the vital role that the state university system plays for the Commonwealth and believe that Westfield State is a leading campus in achieving that mission. As a resident of Western Mass., I am also very familiar with the accomplishments and contributions the university makes to the region and am proud to say that my son is a Westfield State University alum. I look forward to working with President Thompson, the deans, department chairs, and faculty, as well as other academic-affairs departments, to advance the university’s strategic goals and other important initiatives during the 2023-2024 academic year.”

Prior to his retirement, Caruso served as president of Antioch University New England (AUNE) from 2006 to 2013. There, he led the successful implementation of the 2007-12 strategic plan and doubled the campus annual fund. He launched AUNE’s first successful Horace Mann Spirit of Service Awards ceremony that provides funds for the general scholarship endowment. He also served on the boards of the New Hampshire College and University Council and Campus Compact for New Hampshire.

Previously, he was provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at Worcester State University from 2002 to 2006. Under his leadership, Worcester State implemented a universal student laptop program, revised general education, and launched a number of new academic programs. Earlier, he held faculty and administrative appointments at the University of Hartford, the University of Rhode Island, Purdue University, and Indiana State University. In 1995, he was awarded the American Council on Education Fellowship, a program designed to develop senior leaders in higher education. In 2014-15, he returned to Worcester State as interim provost.

Caruso obtained his Ph.D. in Human Development at Cornell University and his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Sonoma State University. His research and publications are in the field of child and youth development and early-childhood education. He has done consulting in early-childhood education and higher-education leadership and organizational change, chaired the governance committee at the University of Hartford Magnet School, and served on the editorial boards of Early Education and Development, Child and Youth Care Forum, and Infant Mental Health Journal. He currently serves on the Leadership Council for Boundless Way Zen.

WESTFIELD — Westfield State University (WSU) President Linda Thompson has appointed Kevin Hearn as vice president for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs. Hearn will begin his duties on July 3.

As WSU continues to reinforce and build systems to support the needs of students and the surrounding communities, “Dr. Hearn’s dedication as an experienced, innovative steward of higher education will play an important role in advancing the university’s concept of IDEAS — innovation, diversity, engagement, and advancement — that ultimately leads to student success,” Thompson said. “The breadth of Dr. Hearn’s experience stood out from many qualified candidates, and I look forward to working with him to tell the story of Westfield State University.”

With 30 years of higher-education experience, Hearn’s curricular and co-curricular leadership spans enrollment, student affairs, academic support, and communications.

“I wish to thank Dr. Thompson, the selection committee, and all those who participated in the nationwide search for inviting me to serve in this post at Westfield State University,” Hearn said. “This position will play a critical role in addressing the needs of prospective and current students and in creating a more seamless and vibrant student experience from the point of admission through graduation. During my campus visit, I was impressed with the passion with which Westfield State students, staff, and faculty spoke of the university and their experiences. I look forward to partnering with them, as well as with the board of trustees, local and regional community organizations and businesses, and Westfield State alumni, to foster a culture of innovation and engagement that inspires all campus members to build on the rich history of Westfield State University.”

Hearn most recently served as vice president for Enrollment Management at Robert Morris University in Pittsburgh, where he was responsible for leadership and management of all staff and operations within the offices of undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and international admissions, as well as the office of Financial Aid.

Prior to this role, he served as vice president for Strategic Enrollment Management at Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia and vice president for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs at Niagara University in Lewiston, N.Y., and held leadership roles in Enrollment Management and Student Affairs at Dean College in Franklin, Mass.

Hearn earned his doctorate in education from Nova Southeastern University in Miami, his master’s degree in counseling and educational psychology from Rhode Island College in Providence, and his bachelor’s degree in political science from Le Moyne College in Syracuse, N.Y.

WESTFIELD — On Wednesday, April 26 from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m., the Westfield State University master of public administration program will present a discussion with municipal leaders in Western Mass. on the challenges and rewards of municipal work. The discussion will take place at the Westfield State University TV studio in the Ely Campus Center.

This event is free and open to students of all majors interested in public service, high-school students, and anyone interested in learning about the inner workings of local government.

“Local Government Career Opportunities and Challenges” will feature a panel including Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia; Westfield Personnel Director Anne Larkham, West Springfield Mayor William Reichelt, and Paul Sieloff, chair of the Berkshire Municipal Management Assoc.

The panel will be moderated by Rick Sullivan, adjunct faculty member of Westfield State University, former Westfield mayor, and current president and CEO of the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council.

The program will be livestreamed on the University website, westfield.ma.edu/live.

WESTFIELD — U.S. Rep. Richard Neal joined Westfield State University President Linda Thompson to announce a $1 million earmark to enhance the university’s training capacity for nursing and health science students.

The allocation was made possible through congressionally directed spending from the Department of Education. Neal included funding for this project in the FY 2023 spending bill that was signed into law on Dec. 29, 2022.

“The Commonwealth has long been at the forefront of innovations in the healthcare field, making our state’s healthcare system the envy of the nation. We are fortunate to have some of the best hospitals in Western and Central Massachusetts, and institutions like Westfield State University are ensuring we have the skilled workforce needed to staff these facilities,” Neal said. “This funding will allow the university to improve and expand its nursing and health science programs, ensuring the next generation of healthcare professionals has access to the state-of-the-art technology and real-world experiences needed to succeed in their respective fields.”

Westfield State’s plans for this funding are threefold: to double the university’s simulation space that is utilized to develop students’ skills and confidence in applying healthcare practices, provide a new Easy Street simulation space that will allow healthcare students to apply concepts of home-based and community care in their learning, and provide new spaces for the practice of healthcare innovation.

“The funding appropriated for Westfield State University’s nursing and healthcare programs will create opportunities to reverse a healthcare professional shortage trend that has impacted a wide swath of our region,” Thompson said. “The critical, smart, and necessary move by Congress, led by House Ways and Means Chairman Richard E. Neal, will lead to the creation of systems that will reinforce and strengthen the health of the population. Westfield State University is eager to continue collaborating with our healthcare partners to provide top-level services to our communities through training and development opportunities for our students and others who may be interested in improving their skills.”