E-Newsletter
An Electronic Publication of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce
Inside this edition, you’ll discover the latest Chamber initiatives and success stories from across our region. From economic development projects and upcoming networking events to policy updates and workforce training opportunities, we’re keeping you connected to what matters most for your business and North Central Massachusetts.
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is here to help – with trusted resources, a strong business network, and a support system to keep your business and the region moving forward
$58,000 awarded to the region’s most outstanding high school seniors
Families, friends, fellow graduates, and business and community leaders recently gathered for the annual Chamber Foundation of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce scholarship program to recognize the region’s most outstanding high school seniors. The awardees were acknowledged during the Annual Scholar’s Breakfast held on Friday, May 9, 2025, at Great Wolf Lodge in Fitchburg.
Proceeds from the breakfast program benefit the Chamber Foundation and help support Chamber scholarships in future years. Maria Milagros, an award-winning speaker, author, storyteller and empowerment life coach, led the ceremony and delivered the keynote address.
For the Class of 2025, a total of $58,000 in scholarships were awarded from either endowments or funds provided by local companies and individuals. This total includes two scholarships for non-traditional students. For traditional scholarships, the Scholarship Committee selected recipients from among college-bound seniors who live in one of the 27 communities served by the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce based on a student’s overall merit, including academics, sports, volunteer work and employment. Non-traditional scholarships were awarded through a separate selection process to support students of varying ages and educational backgrounds who are pursuing further education or career training after high school.
Twenty-nine scholarships of $2,000 were provided to the following seniors:
Since the establishment of its scholarship program, the Chamber Foundation has awarded more than a million dollars in scholarships to more than 700 students. Many of these awards are made possible through contributions from members of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, with scholarships endowed through the Chamber Foundation often named in honor of prominent members of the North Central Massachusetts business community whose philanthropy and commitment to the community have helped shape the region.
“The North Central region is exceptional in its generosity, investment and commitment to supporting its future leaders,” said Roy M. Nascimento, president and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “These scholarships are one way we can recognize local students as they continue their education through the support of organizations and individuals who help make these scholarships possible for our graduating seniors.”
The Chamber wishes to thank the Scholar’s Breakfast Premier Sponsor: Rollstone Bank & Trust; Recipient Ticket Sponsor: Great Wolf Lodge; Supporting Sponsor: Steel-Fab, Inc.; Gift Sponsor: Fitchburg State University; Centerpiece Sponsor: All One Credit Union; Media Sponsor: FATV; as well as the many Chamber members who contributed towards the scholarships.
The Chamber Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization focused on assisting in the betterment of the region through charitable activities. Funds raised by the Chamber Foundation are utilized primarily for education and workforce development initiatives and charitable activities in North Central Massachusetts.
For more information on the Chamber Foundation of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce scholarship program or to view a list of the named scholarships, please visit northcentralmass.com or call 978.353.7600, ext. 225.
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The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and its economic development arm, the Corporación de Desarrollo del Norte Central de Massachusetts (NCMDC), recognized several small businesses and individuals at the Second Annual Entrepreneur Awards Reception and Resource Showcase, held at the Doubletree by Hilton in Leominster on March 20, 2025.
The awards celebrated entrepreneurship in the region and showcased successful NCMDC clients who are helping to advance the region’s economy and communities.
“Our entrepreneurs represent the true meaning of determination, innovation and success,” said Roy M. Nascimento, president and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation. “With numerous nominations for this year’s awards, all of our entrepreneurs are worthy of recognition as their contributions to the community and growth of the region’s economy are invaluable and remarkable, especially when combined with their grit, determination and dedication as successful business owners.”

Pictured (L-R): Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation; Albert Deshler, Owner of AD Quality EMS Training; and Dr. Becky Copper-Glenz, Dean, Graduate and Continuing Education at Fitchburg State University.
El Entrepreneurship Success Award recognized Albert Deshler, owner of AD Quality EMS Training, Inc., located in Lancaster. Opening a business during a global pandemic is no small feat, but with perseverance and dedication, Deshler overcame the challenge and has since expanded from a single location to six locations, while also creating 36 jobs. Through his expertise and commitment to high-quality EMS education, he is strengthening communities, training lifesavers, and making a lasting impact in emergency medical services.

Pictured (L-R): Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation; Nancy and Shawn Bray, Owners of Diamond Hearts Art Studio; and Dr. Becky Copper-Glenz, Dean, Graduate and Continuing Education at Fitchburg State University.
El Community Impact Award recognized Nancy Bray, owner of Diamond Hearts Studios, located in Gardner. Bray, with her husband, Sean, recently opened the studio, offering a creative space dedicated to art, community and expression for all ages and skill levels. Since opening just five months ago, Bray has collaborated with community outreach programs, peer recovery groups, school organizations, and nonprofits, all while helping to raise funds for important causes.

Pictured (L-R): Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation; Christine Konich, Owner of Simply Sweet by Christine; and Dr. Becky Copper-Glenz, Dean, Graduate and Continuing Education at Fitchburg State University.
El Dream Big Award went to Christine Konich, owner of Simply Sweet by Christine, in Leominster. A self-taught baker and cake artist with nearly 20 years of experience, Konich immigrated from Indonesia, became a U.S. citizen in 2016, and successfully navigated the challenges of being in immigrant, minority and woman entrepreneur toward running a thriving business.
In addition to the recognition, these three small businesses also took home cash awards of $500 each.
During the program, the Chamber also presented its Community Partner of the Year y Banker of the Year awards.

Pictured (L-R): Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation; Tom Herald, Regional Director at the Small Business Development Center at Clark University; and Dr. Michael Greenwood, Chair of the Business Department at Fitchburg State University.
The Small Business Development Center at Clark University was recognized as the Community Partner of the Year for its support and active partnership with the NCMDC in working with startup businesses to provide guidance in the development of business plans and creating projections for future success. Through their work, entrepreneurs can obtain financing and start the business on a positive note.

Pictured (L-R): Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation; Austin Brooks, Small Business Relationship Manager at TD Bank; and Dr. Michael Greenwood, Chair of the Business Department at Fitchburg State University.
El Banker of the Year was presented to Austin Brooks of TD Bank. Brooks serves as Small Business Relationship Manager at TD Bank and plays a key role in connecting entrepreneurs with funding, which earned him recognition as the top referral source for NCMDC lending among bankers this past year. In addition to this professional work, Brooks established the Russell Brooks Foundation as part of his community project for the Chamber’s Community Leadership Institute in 2022. The Foundation provides crucial support to families navigating the challenges of cancer treatment to ensure children and loved one can still experience the magic of the holidays.
Special thanks to Premier and Award Recipient Sponsor Fitchburg State University, Corporate Sponsor Fidelity Bank, and Supporting Sponsors bankHometown, Rollstone Bank & Trust, Main Street Bank, Workers’ Credit Union, and TD Bank. The bag sponsor was Fitchburg Rotary East, and XLO 104.5 was Media Sponsor.
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The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the promotion of Travis Condon to Director of Public Affairs.
This promotion recognizes Mr. Condon’s dedication and service to the Chamber, as well as the important role he has played within the organization. He will continue to lead the Chamber’s advocacy and public policy efforts while contributing to its economic development initiatives, strengthening the visibility of the region’s businesses and economy on Beacon Hill.
“Travis has consistently demonstrated his commitment to our organization’s mission since joining our team,” said Roy M. Nascimento, President & CEO. “His contributions to our economic development and public policy initiatives have helped strengthen the Chamber’s work throughout North Central Massachusetts. This promotion recognizes both his dedication to the Chamber and the important role he continues to play in our organization.”
Since joining the Chamber in 2020, Condon has successfully coordinated the organization’s government affairs efforts and served as a strong advocate for local businesses. His deep knowledge of the region and established relationships with leaders throughout the state have proven to be valuable assets in advancing the Chamber’s goals.
“I am honored by this recognition and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the North Central Massachusetts business community in this new capacity,” said Condon. “I look forward to building upon our work to create a stronger economic climate for our region and to advocate effectively for our members’ interests.”
Prior to joining the Chamber, Condon served as the host and producer of the “K-Zone Morning Kommute” program at WPKZ Radio in Fitchburg. A native of Leominster, he remains active in the community, including serving on the Board of Directors of North Star Family Services, Inc. and as emcee for various community events. Condon holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Bridgewater State University in Communications and Public Relations.
Existing members or businesses interested in learning more about the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce’s government affairs efforts can reach Travis Condon at 978.353.7600 ext. 224 or via email at .
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In front of an audience of over 400 with hundreds more tuning in online at the Health Equity Trends Summit, Governor Maura Healey announced a new initiative in partnership with The Health Foundation of Central Massachusetts and the Health Equity Partnership of North Central Mass (CHNA 9) to advance health equity in the Ayer region.
This is the latest Advancing Heath Equity in Massachusetts (AHEM) to be announced by the Healey-Driscoll administration and the first one in Central Massachusetts.
The Health Foundation has awarded a three-year, $250,000 grant to the Health Equity Partnership to support this work, which was covered by the Servicio de Noticias de la Cámara de Representantes.
The summit was the third such event hosted by the Health Equity Compact, which brings together over 85 leaders of color who aim to advance health equity in Massachusetts. Compact members are high-level executives and experts from a diverse set of health, business, labor, and philanthropic organizations, including hospitals, health centers, payers, academic institutions, and public health.
LUK, Inc. was recently awarded the $10,000 Impact Award from the 100 Women Who Care of Greater Westford.

LUK was nominated as the recipient of the award to support their Community Behavioral Health Clinic. The funds will help to provide safe and comforting spaces for therapy services and to offset LUK’s free care pool.
“LUK is so appreciative of the 100 Women Who Care,” says LUK President, Beth Barto. “Their donation will help children, youth, and families heal from challenging life events in a safe and supportive environment.”
LUK, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the safety, health, and well-being of youth, families, and adults in Central Massachusetts. As a community-based organization, LUK’s mission is to challenge and inspire youth, adults, and families to realize their unique potential through community-based prevention, intervention, education, and support services.
For more information about LUK, Inc., visit www.LUK.org, call (800) 579-0000, or find us on Facebook (@LetUsKnowINC). Join us in building stronger communities, family by family!
The United Way of North Central Massachusetts (UWNCM) has successfully completed its annual April Foods Drive, distributing more than 7,500 pounds of food—valued at $14,625—to local agencies. The drive provided essential nutrition to 900 families and a total of 2,250 individuals across the region.
From April through June, donation boxes were placed in libraries, schools, grocery stores, and partner businesses throughout North Central Massachusetts. Community members responded generously, filling the boxes with nutritious, non-perishable items for local families in need. In addition to community donations, UWNCM partnered with local food pantries to distribute the food and teamed up with Growing Places to include fresh, locally grown produce such as apples, lettuce and asparagus. To ensure a balanced supply of food, UWNCM also purchased additional staple items.

Volunteers from The Club: Lunenburg Teen Center — Mackenzie, Charlotte, Molly, Jules, and Andy — loaded donations into the car of Julie Meehan, Executive Director of the Gardner Community Action Committee, during the April Foods 2025 Drive.
The overall impact of the drive totaled $26,533, thanks to $10,332 in in-kind donations and the efforts of 21 volunteers, who contributed 52 hours of service—valued at $1,650.
UWNCM also extends special thanks to Local Roots Cannabis Crafted and Christ Church Fitchburg for their donations toward fresh produce, Catania Oil for contributing two pallets of cooking oil (110 cases), and Point32Health for providing bags and hand sanitizer to support the drive.
“No one in our community should have to worry about their next meal. This food drive is a powerful reminder that when we come together, we can make a real difference. Every donation, big or small, helps put food on someone’s table and hope in their heart,” said Judy Tomlinson, UWNCM Director of Community Impact.
Among the many dedicated volunteers were staff from The Club: Lunenburg Teen Center, who have supported the food drive for several years.
“We’ve been volunteering for UWNCM’s food drive twice a year for the past four years,” said Michelle Belleza, Executive Director of the Club. “It’s one way we can ‘LIVE UNITED’ and give back for all the support we receive—from funding to volunteers to training. Helping load up hundreds of pounds of food makes us feel like partners in this work, not just beneficiaries. The UWNCM is a vital part of our village, and we’re proud to support the broader community it serves.”
To learn more or find ways to support future food drives, visit www.uwncm.org.
Agencies receiving donations:
Catholic Charities Worcester County
Clear Path for Veterans New England
Community Pantry at Athol High School
Gardner CAC
Ginny’s Helping Hand, Inc.
Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center, Inc.
Lunenburg Community Food Pantry
The Society of St. Vincent De Paul Food Pantry at St. Joseph Church Fitchburg
Saint Leo’s Parish Church Food Pantry
The Salvation Army Athol Corps
The Salvation Army of Fitchburg/Leominster
The Spanish American Center, Inc.
Winchendon CAC
YMCA of Athol Food Pantry
When the workday ends and the lights go down, Custom Cleaning Service of Peabody, Inc. gets to work. “We operate as our clients’ silent partner after business hours,” says Adam Paicos, of Templeton, who now serves as Director of Operations and oversees the company’s expansion into North Central MA. “We are not often seen, but we ensure facilities are clean, secure, and ready for business each day while serving as the eyes and ears for our clients when they are not on site.”
Discover local business stories through our Inside North Central Massachusetts Podcast series. Listen as Chamber members share their journeys, insights, and contributions to our thriving regional business community.
Looking for your next opportunity? Explore current job openings from employers across North Central Massachusetts on our Jobs Board. Whether you’re starting a new career or making a change, you’ll find a variety of local positions available to help you take the next step.
CapEx Facility Services & Construction · Leominster, MA
TaraVista Behavioral Health Center · Harvard, MA
DRS Power Technology, Inc. · Fitchburg, MA
AIS · Leominster, MA