Foundation Annual Meeting celebrates successful year

Scholarship recipients Tom Howard '20 (left) and Alex Dedinas '19 (right) with President Torrecilha at the Foundation Annual Meeting September 13.

The University hosted the annual meeting of the Westfield State Foundation on September 13, where President Ramon Torrecilha thanked its members for their part in a record-breaking year of fundraising. In addition to the meeting, the event was highlighted by student speakers and Foundation Scholarship recipients Tom Howard ’20 and Alex Dedinas ’19, who shared how the financial support as aided their pursuit of a degree.

The Foundation presented its 2018 Stewardship Award to James Huffmire for his vision, commitment and leadership to the students, faculty and staff through many years of service.

For the first time in Westfield State history, more than $3 million in gifts and pledges were received in Fiscal Year 2018. Established in 1980, the Foundation is a philanthropic partner of the University, directed by Dr. Erica Broman, VP for Institutional Advancement, and chaired by James M. Leahy. The Foundation effectively raises funds and carefully manages charitable gifts for the support of the University.