The Greenfield Community College (GCC) Foundation warmly invites community partners, supporters, friends of the college, and alumni to join us for our annual fundraising dinner, "Building Bridges and Belonging: GCC's Celebration of Community," on February 27 from 5:00 p.m -7:30 p.m. in the GCC Cohn Family Dining Commons.

The annual event features a delicious catered dinner, a cash bar, and the presentation of prestigious awards honoring some of our remarkable alumni and community partners. Attendees celebrate with old friends and new while learning about some of GCC's important recent contributions to our region.

Thanks to the support of generous donors and sponsors including our lead Community Partner Sponsor, Greenfield Cooperative Bank, interested GCC students will be able to attend this event free of charge.

"It is an honor to bring together and celebrate the people that make up our vibrant GCC community," said Alexis Page, Executive Director of the GCC Foundation. “We are inspired by our alumni, grateful to our champions, and proud to be part of this community that has such a huge impact on the lives of individuals and families in our area."

This year’s Community Catalyst Award will be presented to Clare Higgins, a long-time member of the GCC Board of Trustees and community leader. This award, which celebrates individuals who have demonstrated exemplary community service, is particularly poignant since Clare recently announced her retirement after 14 years as the Executive Director of Community Action Pioneer Valley.

The Community Champion Award, which goes to an organization that excels at building a more vibrant and resilient community, will be awarded to Stone Soup Café, a nonprofit organization committed to providing meals and fostering community through their cafe and outreach initiatives.

The evening will also honor two distinguished alumni. Jillian Morgan ‘08 will receive the Young Alumni in Action Award. Morgan, who majored in theater at GCC before earning a BA in Communications from UMass Amherst and an MBA from Bay Path University, currently serves as the Director of Development at the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts.

Ken Chartrand, class of 2015, will be honored with the Distinguished Alumni Award. Chartrand earned a degree in Liberal Arts and a certificate in Renewable Energy. He currently serves as a Reentry Case Manager at the Franklin County House of Corrections (FCHOC), where he supports residents who are reintegrating into society after involvement with the justice system. He works with individuals recovering from incarceration, addiction, mental health challenges, and other life adversities.

Tickets for the event are available for $50, with proceeds supporting GCC's students and programs, ensuring a brighter future for our community. Registration is required and interested attendees can find more information and register at gccfor.me/bridges.