From The President

Dear Alumni and Friends,

As I reflect on the stories featured in this issue of The Connection, I am struck by a common thread that weaves through each one: passion. The spark that ignites when a student discovers their calling is truly one of the most rewarding aspects of our work at Holyoke Community College.

In these pages, you’ll meet alums like Brandon Towle ’19, who found his path through meaningful connections with our dedicated faculty. These relationships — forged in classrooms, labs, and hallways across our campus — have transformed lives and launched remarkable journeys. Our graduates are making significant contributions in countless fields and professions, and what unites them is that it all began right here, where someone recognized their potential and helped them cultivate it.

While we celebrate these success stories, we remain focused on innovation and growth. We continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of our students and community. New programs like eSports, enhanced support services like the Marieb Adult Learner Success Center, and expanded opportunities for experiential learning are just a few ways we’re building on our legacy of excellence. As you turn these pages, you will discover how we are honoring our traditions while boldly stepping into the future.

Each of us has a story about how Holyoke Community College has touched our lives. For some, it provided essential skills for a career change. For others, it offered a supportive environment to explore our passions. For many, it served as the crucial first step toward dreams that once seemed unattainable.

As you read this issue, I invite you to consider your own connection to HCC and how you might help create similar opportunities for today’s students. Whether through mentorship, financial support, or simply sharing your story, you can help ensure that our college continues to be a launchpad for dreams and aspirations for generations to come.

With gratitude,

George Timmons, Ph.D.
President