Mayors Michael McCabe and William Reichelt Encourage Student Participation in Local Government in New Civic Leaders Speaker Series

Westfield State University’s Student Government Association (SGA) is making civic engagement a top priority this spring semester, as highlighted in the recent State of the Campus Address. In an effort to accomplish this goal, SGA President Joseph Bonilla announced the start of the Civic Leaders Speaker Series, a program that aims to introduce students to local leaders and promote community service.

The first of this series took place on the evening of January 28th, serving as a celebration for the SGA’s centennial and featuring special guest Mayor Michael McCabe of Westfield. The second event welcomed esteemed guest and Mayor of West Springfield, William Reichelt. 

In response to student questions during his speech, McCabe emphasized the value of directly addressing their concerns, commenting, “Hopefully so that you guys will be informed on stuff you care about rather than stuff I care about.”

Among the topics discussed was how students could better support Westfield Public Schools, first encouraging participation in local autism programs and suggesting that students reach out to Kara LaValley, a former intern of his who now works in the district. Additionally, he emphasized the city's continued partnership with Baystate Medical Center, especially for nursing and physician assistant students.

With references to groups like the YMCA, Stanley Park, Westfield on Weekends (WOW), and the Boys and Girls Club, Mayor McCabe emphasized the abundance of options accessible to students who wish to get involved. Students were reassured by him that civic engagement is more about commitment and hard work than it is about having certain skills.

“If you send me an email at mayorcityofwestfield.org and you have a question that you’d like to have answered or looking for job opportunity or you’re looking for some board or commission that tickles your fancy, I’m the guy to go to,” Mayor McCabe said, demonstrating his passionate devotion to aiding students in succeeding.

The second installment of the Civic Leaders Speaker Series featured Mayor Reichelt, whom Bonilla introduced by first recognizing Mayor Reichelt’s unwavering commitment to advocating for education, enhancing public safety, and supporting small businesses.

Reichelt discussed the "Looking for Feedback Survey Platform," a new community feedback project that uses social media to allow citizens to interact with local government and voice concerns. The five simple survey questions provide community members with an accessible way to have their voices heard and submit feedback, while also increasing engagement.

Reichelt then emphasized the growing impact of social media, acknowledging its significant role in the success of his campaign and recognizing it as a powerful tool for keeping citizens informed and engaged. “Social media is a great way to amplify all those things that you’re doing,” Reichelt said, advising the audience to ignore negative comments on social media platforms. 

Given that many Westfield State students are local and want to give back, one interested student asked how Owls can become more involved in the West Springfield community.

“I would say, that all sounds awesome what you're doing in Westfield, and if you wanted to expand to West Springfield or any other community, doing those same things in that community would be a great way to do it,” says Reichelt in reference to volunteering in soup kitchens, schools, and food and clothing drives. Additionally, he suggested attending chamber events, PTO dinners, and the homework school drive. 

Both of the inspiring speeches given by Reichelt and McCabe highlight the significance of community involvement and provide students with substantial methods for getting engaged. By participating in local events, volunteer work, and engaging in meaningful community conversations, students actively shape and strengthen a connected and vibrant community.