Outgoing Director, Gary LeFort being recognized by Executive Director, Cyd Melcher and President, Gary Breton.
Despite some stiff competition from across the street, the 2012 Annual Meeting & Dinner of the World Affairs Council of Western Massachusetts at the Springfield Sheraton was well attended and featured good food, sparkling company, gratitude for outgoing board members and a thoughtful, hopeful conversation about global sustainability.
Jim Laudato, Kathy Breton & Daphne Hall enjoy a drink and conversation before the event
The evening began with a reception where members and new friends met and enjoyed conversation before the program. Council Board President Gary Breton–representing the evening’s sponsor Bacon Wilson, PC–welcomed the group, reported out on our busy year and successful year and noted that we ended FY2012 in the black. (If you would like a copy of the World Affairs Council’s annual report, please contact the office at 413-733-0110.) Nominating Committee Chair Ken R. Furst recognized outgoing board members including Gary LeFort, Ellen Gill, Tom Manzi, Dennis Egan, and Dieter Lutz.
Gary Breton then introduced the evening’s speaker, Hampshire College President Jonathan Lash, an internationally recognized expert on the subject of global sustainability. Lash’s remarks were at once thorough, down to earth, frank and optimistic. After the event many attendees described him as one of the best speakers the Council has ever had.
Hampshire President Jonathan Lash speaks on global sustainability
Audio of Jonathan Lash’s remarks is available here.
All in all it was a great way to kick off our 2012-2013 Program Year. Many thanks to all who turned out.
