If you weren’t able to join us for April’s Rise & Shine—Chasing the American Dream—you missed a meaningful and well-attended morning that brought together business and community leaders from across the region for a thoughtful and timely conversation. 

Held on April 9, 2026, at the Springfield Marriott Downtown, the program centered on a question that resonates across industries and backgrounds: what does the American Dream look like today—and how is it evolving? 

As with many Rise & Shine events, the morning offered a balance of personal storytelling and broader perspective, giving attendees the opportunity to hear directly from leaders whose experiences reflect both the challenges and opportunities shaping our communities. 

Speakers included: 

Modesto Montero-Forman, Director of Libertas Academy 
Alex Bloom, President of Wash Works Laundromat 
Sandra Sheehan, Administrator of the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority 

Modesto Montero-Forman reflected on his experience growing up between the Dominican Republic and Massachusetts, emphasizing how access to education and strong community support helped shape his path into leadership. His story highlighted the importance of opportunity—and the people who help create it—in building long-term success. 

Alex Bloom offered an entrepreneurial perspective, reflecting on his journey from Belarus and the realities of building a business from the ground up. He spoke candidly about early challenges and setbacks, and how his definition of success has evolved over time to focus on stability, independence, and the ability to give back to the community. 

Sandra Sheehan shared her family’s journey from Colombia and her own path into engineering and public service. She underscored the role of perseverance, education, and infrastructure in expanding access to opportunity for individuals and entire communities. 

The Takeaway: Why This Conversation Matters 

While each story was different, the conversation reinforced a shared understanding: the American Dream continues to evolve, but it remains closely tied to access—access to education, meaningful work, and the ability to build a better future over time. It also highlighted that success is often generational, built on the sacrifices, support, and determination of those who came before. 

Rise & Shine continues to provide a valuable forum for conversations like this, bringing together diverse perspectives in a setting that encourages both reflection and connection. For business leaders, it’s an opportunity to hear firsthand how others have navigated challenges and opportunities, while also serving as a reminder of the important role employers, educators, and public institutions play in supporting economic mobility and growth across our region. 

If you joined us, thank you for being part of the conversation. 

And if you missed it… we hope to see you at the next Rise & Shine at Barnes Air National Guard Base.