A Celebration of Community Contributions
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The 40 Under Forty Awards ceremony took place on Thursday, attracting over 300 community members to honor individuals committed to enhancing the quality of life in the Berkshires.
Acknowleding Unsung Heroes
Berkshire Community College (BCC) received hundreds of nominations this year, ultimately selecting 40 individuals recognized as unsung heroes by college President Ellen Kennedy. “It is wonderful to see previous winners nominating the next generation,” Kennedy remarked.
Insights from Leadership
Kennedy elaborated, “This event allows us to celebrate the remarkable talent and hardworking individuals who contribute to the Berkshire community while inspiring entrepreneurial innovation moving forward.”
Community Impact and Diversity
The award recipients represent a wide range of sectors, including health care, education, public safety, conservation, and nonprofit organizations. Kennedy shared the excitement she felt observing children cheering for their parents and a sense of pride for the community’s leaders.
The Philanthropic Spirit
The event also showcased a philanthropic element, with Mill Town Foundation donating $50,000, providing each award recipient $1,000 to contribute to a Berkshire-based nonprofit organization. Liliana Atanacio from Mill Town Foundation stated, “You all represent a unique sample of the Berkshire community, shaping its growth and vibrancy in various ways.”
Surging Interest and Growth
State Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier attended the ceremony, expressing her inspiration by the enthusiasm of young residents and appreciating their diverse contributions. She noted the geographic representation of the nominees from different areas of the Berkshires.
A Legacy of Recognition
The 40 Under Forty initiative began 11 years ago, initiated by Craig Smith, BCC’s former vice president for advancement, to highlight the contributions of the younger generation. Smith reflected on the ongoing success of the program, commenting, “It is exciting to see that something I helped create continues to create opportunities for younger people and the organizations they serve.”
Fundraising for Community Education
The awards ceremony also served as a significant fundraiser for community education at BCC. The funds raised will support short-term training programs, enabling individuals to pursue careers in fields like emergency medical services and nursing.
Recognizing the 2025 Winners
2025 40 Under 40 Winners:
- Melissa Agosto, Austen Riggs Center – Donation: Berkshire Children’s Chorus
- Abigail Allard, Gladys Allen Brigham Community Center – Donation: Gladys Allen Brigham Community Center
- Christian Bianchi, Berkshire Family YMCA – Donation: Community Access to the Arts (CATA)
- Dr. Ashley Clancy-Gagnon, Berkshire Medical Center – Donation: Berkshire Humane Society
- Kate DeWolf, Berkshire OB/GYN and Associates – Donation: Berkshire Nursing Families
- Marina Dominguez, Downtown Pittsfield – Donation: Berkshire Immigrant Center
- Grace Enchill, Heller and Robbins PC – Donation: 18 Degrees
- Samantha Farella, Pittsfield Public Schools – Donation: The Love of T Foundation
- Luke Fitzgerald, Massachusetts Department of Mental Health – Donation: The Love of T Foundation
- Mystie Ford, Greylock Federal Credit Union – Donation: No Paws Left Behind
For a complete list of winners and their associated donations, visit the BCC website.
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