The One Southcoast Chamber last week held its annual meeting and celebrated the achievements of individuals and organizations that have made a long-lasting positive impact on the community.
It’s the third year since the Bristol County and SouthCoast Chambers of Commerce merged into one entity. Board of Directors Chair Eileen Dnanhey says much has gone well in that time, led by co-CEOs Michael O’Sullivan and Rick Kidder.
Ms. Danahey says along with being a united voice for SouthCoast businesses, the chamber has also enhanced its role in being a contributing community partner.
The chamber also recognized nine individuals for their contributions to the community in the awarding of its Brayton Awards:
Carl Cruz– Carl Cruz has distinguished himself admirably in advocating for his fellow man throughout his life, both professionally and in his volunteer service. He is a lifelong resident of New Bedford with a master’s degree in social work and is a licensed clinical social worker. Carl is now retired after starting his career at the Bristol County Probate and Family Court in 1978.
Dr. Laura L. Douglas– Bristol Community College President Laura L. Douglas, Ph.D., is an agent of growth and change dedicated to working with students, faculty and staff to foster an inclusive environment with a rich diversity of beliefs, cultures, languages, abilities and lifestyles. Taking the helm as Bristol Community College’s fourth president on July 1, 2017, President Douglas is dedicated to driving a college-going culture in the region.
Brian LeComte– Brian LeComte is a fourth generation owner of Gold Medal Bakery. He is currently President and Chief Operating Officer of this baked goods supplier headquartered in Fall River. Brian recently served as Chair of the One SouthCoast Chamber and has served as the Treasurer of the American Baker’s Association for the last four years.
Patrick (Pat) J. Murray, Jr.- Patrick (Pat) J. Murray, Jr. is President and CEO of Bristol County Savings Bank; a Taunton, Massachusetts based full-service banking institution with approximately $3 billion in assets. Pat has held his current position for the past ten years and previously served the Bank in a number of capacities, including Treasurer and Chief Operating Officer.
Richard & Debbie Pelletier– Richard Pelletier has directed numerous choirs, choral groups, and live pageants in the region. He has served as President of the Little Theatre of Fall River and has directed well over a dozen shows for them and various civic and religious organizations. Debbie Pelletier was the first clerk of the Niagara Neighborhood Association, is a former board member of the BCC Dental Hygiene Alumni Association, Southeastern Massachusetts Dental Hygienists Association and Little Theatre of Fall River.
Cynthia Rose– Cynthia Rose grew up in New Bedford, earned her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Salve Regina University and a MS in human development and administration from Northeastern University. She worked as police officer for the City of New Bedford for 22 years and had a career in public service before retiring in 2010 as the Assistant Clerk Magistrate in the New Bedford District Court.
Anthony R. Sapienza– Anthony R. Sapienza is the President of the Board of Directors of the New Bedford Economic Development Council in which capacity he has served for 15 years. The NBEDC Board leads the not-for-profit corporation that is the economic development agency for the City of New Bedford. In 2018, he retired as the President/CEO of the JA Apparel Corp. and the Joseph Abboud Mfg. Corp. after a 45-year career in the men’s fashion and apparel industry.
Kimberly J. Smith– Kimberly J. Smith, Executive Director of United Way of Greater Fall River, has been actively involved in the SouthCoast community for 30 years. Her professional career began in 1992 with the Waring-Sullivan Funeral Homes, where she dedicated her career as a Funeral Director & Embalmer in both MA & RI. Kim’s stars aligned in 2018 when she was selected to fill the role of Executive Director of United Way.
The chamber also paid tribute to four organizations through its APEX Awards:
Merrow Manufacturing– Merrow Manufacturing is a technical soft goods manufacturer located in Fall River, Ma. In 1838 Merrow began as a general store, and quickly developed into a diverse manufacturing organization, developing and building apparel, gear and instrumented soft goods. Merrow is also one part of a larger group of companies that specialize in manufacturing sewing machines (Merrow), technology and fashion.
New Bedford Public Schools– New Bedford Public Schools began exploring opportunities to expand their partnerships with higher education during the 2019-2020 school year and later applied for and received Early College designation in partnership with Bristol Community College. This partnership includes pathways for Business, Health, and Information Technology. At the same time, we entered into a pilot with UMass Dartmouth to develop an Early College pathway for Fine Arts.
Spindle City Auto Glass– Since 1999, Spindle City Glass has been the trusted local choice for your auto glass needs and take pride in the impact they make on the local workforce and economy. They consistently recruit from Diman Regional Vocation Technical High School, in particular, the Auto Collision Shop and remain committed to utilizing local small businesses for their supply, marketing and promotional needs.
YWCA Southeastern MA– YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all people. They provide programs and direct services to over 4,000 people annually within four concentrations: Adult Services, Youth Services, Health, Wellness, and Residential Services.
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