185 years ago, Westfield State University was born from an idea for an equal, just, educated society built on participatory democracy. Horace Mann believed in the possibility of a better future for Massachusetts because he saw the power of education. His ideas – his belief in the power of possibility – changed the Commonwealth and changed the world.
Today, Westfield State University remains a space for big ideas, for learning new things and rethinking what we already think we know. We ask questions. We seek answers. We are curious and accepting.
We celebrate those who look to the future with bravery and hope. We honor those who strive to be a positive light for others. We uplift those who dream big dreams, answer the call to service, and build resilient, inclusive communities for tomorrow.
Westfield State University celebrates 185 years of excellence and welcomes the infinite possibilities of our future.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2024 | 7:30 P.M.
Westfield State University
Dever Stage
Bringing their enchanting Irish repertoire to Westfield State University, the leading musical ambassadors from the Emerald Isle will present an evening of sweeping music and dynamic holiday fare sure to delight and inspire. Westfield State welcomes instrumentalists from our partner organization the Springfield Symphony Orchestra as part of this wonderful event!
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2024 | 10 A.M. – 1 P.M.
Westfield State University
Ely Library
President Linda Thompson and the staff and librarians of Ely Library invited guests to celebrate the stories of scholars from the past, present, and future. They highlighted a few prominent alumni from the late 19th and early 20th centuries and introduced the new Digital Information Repository, an open-access platform for students and faculty to present their scholarship, research, and creative works to the world.
Blue Diamond Ball
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2024 | 6–9 P.M.
MGM Springfield, Aria Ballroom
Westfield State University celebrated its 185th Anniversary at MGM Springfield's Aria Ballroom. The evening began with a lively cocktail hour, followed by a dinner and a program themed "Infinite Possibilities," which focused on enhancing access to education and empowering students.
A standout performance by Obie Award winner James Jackson, Jr. ’97 captivated attendees, while the event also honored this year’s Distinguished Alumni Award recipients.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Westfield State community for their incredible support in making this celebration a memorable occasion. Here’s to many more years of empowering our students and celebrating our legacy!
THURSDAY, MAY 16, 2024 | 6–9 P.M.
Westfield State University
Tim & Jeanne’s Dining Commons
Westfield State University hosted a reception and fundraiser at Tim & Jeanne’s Dining Commons to support student study abroad opportunities. The event featured Mary Lou McDonald, President of Sinn Féin and 2024 commencement speaker, recognized for her contributions to housing, healthcare, and climate change in Ireland.
Attendees contributed to global initiatives aimed at expanding study abroad programs, with proceeds enhancing international experiences for Westfield State students and underscoring the University’s commitment to diverse educational opportunities.
THURSDAY, MARCH 28 | 4–6 P.M.
Westfield State University's Dever Stage
Reception to follow at Scanlon Banquet Hall
The symposium discussed the impact on women who chose to serve our community and explored the relationships between personal well-being and health, Superwomen Syndrome, and professional expectations, focusing on the challenges of working for a more equitable world. This free, public lecture welcomed individuals from all backgrounds to participate in an enlightening and inspiring evening.
THURSDAY, MARCH 21 | 5–6:30 P.M.
Westfield State University
Multi-Purpose Room in University Hall
U.S. Army General Clara Mae Leach Adams-Ender, a nursing graduate of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, joined the Army Nurse Corps in 1961. She notably became the first female officer awarded an Expert Medical Field Badge. Adams-Ender then earned her M.S. from the University of Minnesota and was the first woman to achieve a Master of Military Art and Science degree from the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. Her career highlights include leadership roles at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and as Chief of the Army Nurse Corps. Promoted to Brigadier-General, she later served as Commanding General at Fort Belvoir, Virginia.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22 | 5:30 P.M.
Shaker Farms Country Club
To recognize and celebrate Black History Month, and commemorate Westfield State’s 185th anniversary, we held an evening of inspiration and reflection as we paid tribute to the remarkable contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and honored those who continue to carry on his legacy.
