From the President

Dear Friends,

I remember my interviews for president of Holyoke Community College seven years ago. There was so much hope in the voices of members of the search committee, the Board of Trustees, the HCC Foundation Board, and members of the community – each passionate about this institution and identifying its next leader. 

Over the subsequent days and months, I met so many amazing people – students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, and board members – who shared with me their commitment to HCC. They helped me see the tremendous potential in this college and the opportunities to shine light on the extraordinary work done here.

From the beginning, I felt welcome. My fellow college and university presidents, business and nonprofit leaders, and our legislators all seemed eager to collaborate in ways that now, looking back, have enabled us to transform the lives of thousands of individuals across western Massachusetts and beyond.

One of the greatest joys has been talking to alumni. I have had the privilege to meet many of the 40,000 graduates of Holyoke Junior College and Holyoke Community College, whose memories never cease to amaze and inspire me. For many, HCC is a family affair, with siblings, parents, grandparents, and extended family all having some connection with the college. And while their stories are as unique and diverse as our community, there is one common thread: when you start here, you can go anywhere.

HCC has been a launchpad for every student who passes through its doors, and all along their educational journeys, students are greeted with support that enables them to remain on a path to success. 

It is that relentless support that makes me most proud. Together, this community has imagined, developed, and championed programs and services that are truly changing lives, many of which you can read about on the following pages. 

When I reflect on all that HCC has achieved in the last seven years, I am truly amazed. More than that, I am grateful. We did this work together. 

As I leave, I take with me memories that will last a lifetime: Welcome Back BBQs with students excited to begin the semester; strategic plan sessions that helped us craft our new mission, vision, values, and student experience statements; ribbon-cutting ceremonies for the HCC MGM Culinary Arts Institute, Center for Life Sciences, and renovated Campus Center; and graduations that proved dreams really can come true.

Thank you. Serving Holyoke Community College as president has been the privilege of a lifetime.