HOLYOKE – Holyoke Community College is pleased to announce that Julissa Colón of South Hadley has been selected as the college’s first dean of student experience. Colón, 44, is a 2013 graduate of HCC. She started working at the college in 2010 as a clerk for the Gateway to College program and earned her associate…

University of Massachusetts Amherst has selected Charles Walker-Hoover, a graduating undergraduate, as one of its 2026 21st Century Leaders, a distinction recognizing students who demonstrate exceptional leadership, academic achievement, and commitment to community impact.

The Honorable Kimberly Budd, Chief Justice of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court and a native of Springfield, Massachusetts, was presented the Degree of Doctor of Laws at the University of Massachusetts Amherst 2026 Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony prior to her delivering the Keynote Address.

SPRINGFIELD – Springfield Technical Community College’s Alpha Psi Sigma Chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society earned top honors at both the regional and international levels this spring, culminating in one of the organization’s highest global recognitions.

As we begin graduation season across Springfield Public Schools, I find myself reflecting on what this moment really represents. This is my second graduation season as superintendent. And while the ceremonies matter, what stays with me most are the stories behind the diplomas. Not just what our students have done. But who they have become.