There’s no better way to head into a busy fall than with some good news to celebrate!

I’m incredibly honored to share that the Springfield Regional Chamber has been named Best Chamber in MassLive’s Reader Raves for the 13th time. To receive this recognition again is a true testament to the work happening every day at the Chamber and, most importantly, to the people who make that work possible.

Recognition like this speaks to the incredible work of the many people who dedicate their expertise and talents to the Chamber. I’m especially grateful to Canopy Management Group, Karen Tetreault, our Board of Directors, our Legislative Steering Committee, and our Ambassador team, for the time, energy, and commitment they bring to our business community. And most importantly, I am grateful to our members; you fuel our efforts and keep us inspired to continue working hard in our community.  We are incredibly fortunate to have your support.

It’s a great way to begin what is already shaping up to be an exciting fall.

Super 60 is quickly approaching, and there’s still time to help us recognize another outstanding group of businesses and nonprofits making an impact across Western Massachusetts. We’ve extended nominations through this Friday, September 18, so if there’s an organization that comes to mind, now is the time to nominate them.

Then, I hope you’ll join us on November 6 at the MassMutual Center for one of my favorite celebrations of the year. I’m especially excited to welcome Wilbert Weche as our keynote speaker, whose work developing leaders and strengthening organizations makes him a fitting voice as we recognize this year’s Super 60 honorees and the businesses and nonprofits helping move Western Massachusetts forward.

As you read this, I’m in Washington, D.C., with Chamber members for our 2026 Washington Symposium. We’re hearing from an extraordinary group of leaders, including Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, Congressman Richard Neal, Senator Ed Markey, Senator Elizabeth Warren, Representative Rosa DeLauro, Representative Hakeem Jeffries, Representative Vern Buchanan, Irish Ambassador Geraldine Byrne Nason, and many others. These few days give Western Massachusetts business leaders the opportunity to be part of important conversations around our economy, workforce, and business climate while bringing our region’s perspective into the room. I’m looking forward to bringing plenty of ideas and insights home with us.

And when we return, the momentum continues. On September 18, we’ll welcome a delegation from County Kerry, Ireland, at our Multi-Chamber September Morning Social. Then, on October 15, we’ll kick off our Rise & Shine season with Doug Howgate, President of the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation.

With so much happening, this is also a great time for businesses looking to build meaningful visibility across our Chamber community. Sponsorship opportunities are available throughout our 2026–2027 season, offering ways to put your business in the middle of some of the Chamber's biggest moments of the year. The Chamber’s 2026–2027 Sponsorship Package gives your organization opportunities to build visibility, strengthen brand awareness, and connect with the business and community leaders you want to reach. If you’ve been thinking about getting more involved with the Chamber, I hope you’ll take a look at what’s available.

There’s a lot to look forward to, and I can’t wait to experience another great fall with all of you.

See you soon!