A Community Leader to Guide the Organization’s Next Chapter of Growth and Innovation

Springfield, MA — February 21, 2025 — Make-It Springfield, a vibrant center of creativity and collaboration, is pleased to announce the appointment of Gillian Hinkson as its new President of the Corporation and Board of Directors. With a strong background in leadership, community engagement, and creative entrepreneurship, Hinkson is poised to lead Make-It Springfield as it begins an exciting new era of growth and impact.

“We are thrilled to welcome Gillian as the new President of Make-It Springfield,” says Roberta Wilmore, Executive Director. “Her passion for creativity, inclusivity, and community-driven innovation aligns perfectly with our mission. We are confident that under her leadership, Make-It Springfield will continue to thrive and expand its reach.”

Hinkson brings to the position a record of active civic engagement and strong leadership in the Springfield community. Michael DiPasquale, outgoing President of Make-It Springfield, and one of its founders says, “whether championing equity in politics, supporting aspiring leaders, or fostering educational opportunities, Gillian’s contributions to Springfield are far-reaching and impactful.” 

As President, Hinkson will take on a range of initiatives as the organization looks at ways to serve a broader and more diverse community of makers, artists, and entrepreneurs. “I am honored to step into this role at such an exciting time,” says Hinkson. “Make-It Springfield has been a hub for creativity and collaboration and I look forward to building on this foundation.” 

Currently a Board Member of Make-It Springfield, Hinkson also serves on the board of Brotherhood On the Move and the League of Women Voters Northampton Area. She serves as a Trustee at The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, where she plays a crucial role in investment strategy, scholarship assessment, and trustee governance, ensuring resources reach those who need

them most.

Additionally, Hinkson serves as a Democratic State Committee Woman, an elected position, where she co-chairs the Affirmative Action and Outreach Sub-Committee, advocating for representation and inclusion in politics. 

Through Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Beta Alpha Zeta Chapter, she curates impactful community programs, elevating public awareness and education. Gillian holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a Master of Science in Communication and Information Management from Bay Path University.

Professionally, Hinkson serves as a Victim/Witness Advocate at the Hampden County District Attorney’s Office, ensuring justice and support for those in need.

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Make-It Springfield is a community focused art/creative center and a collaborative Makerspace, located at 286 Bridge Street in downtown Springfield, MA. It is dedicated to providing a supportive environment that fosters creativity, innovation, and hands-on community collaboration. Make-It Springfield provides a welcoming, inclusive space for people of all backgrounds to explore and create. Founded in the spring of 2016, Make-It Springfield has grown to become a cornerstone of the local creative economy. A 501c3 non-profit, it offers arts and maker workshops and community programming to support and empower individuals from all backgrounds. For more information about Make-It Springfield and its programs, visit makeitspringfield.org, or contact Roberta Wilmore, Executive Director (roberta@makeitspringfield.org)