MCLA Foundation, Inc.

“I was inspired to become involved with the MCLA Foundation upon hearing from other community members about its good and important work, then observing it myself, especially its support of access to quality higher education for all who wish to pursue the opportunities it affords. I appreciate the importance of MCLA to the northern Berkshire community and its involvement with it, enjoy visiting the campus for lectures, sporting, and other events, and appreciate the spirit of exploration and innovation evident in the institution, its faculty, and its students. Participating in the Foundation provides a rewarding connection to the meaningful mission and activities of MCLA.”

Commissioner of Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners appointed by Governor Maura Healey, Timothy is an experienced Executive Director with a demonstrated history of working in the non-profit organization management industry. Skilled in Nonprofit Organizations, Research, Community Outreach, Academic Libraries, Public Libraries, and Public Speaking. He is a strong business development professional with a Masters focused in Library & Information Science from Indiana University Bloomington.

Having served as an officer and chair on several volunteer boards, Timothy is currently the Chair of the MCLA Foundation Board Directors. 

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“I enjoy serving on the Foundation because it provides an opportunity to participate in decisions that impact the student body. This is especially important to me because as a mom of two daughters, who attended and graduated college, I know firsthand the value of having access and resources for a quality education. Through the Foundation, we are able to contribute to our students’ academic journey in ways great and small, and this is tremendously fulfilling to me.” 

JamieEllen is the Senior Vice President & Chief Administrative Officer at Greylock Federal Credit Union. She began her career at Greylock more than 30 years ago serving in an entry-level position and then moved on to various roles in lending, retail and administration.  

Today, JamieEllen is responsible for shaping and managing the brand and organizational culture at Greylock, overseeing Human Resources, Marketing, Community Support initiatives, Learning & Development, and is actively involved with Board Governance. She served on the Success By 6 committee, a program under Berkshire United Way. This initiative provided programs and services to at risk children under the age of 6. Through Sapphire Dimension, JamieEllen provided 1-to-1 Women Mentorship, addressing the stigmas of racism and feminism around African American culture, and most recently, served on the Gala Committee for BRIDGE. 

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“MCLA is central to my success-personally and professionally. Serving on the Foundation allows me to pay my experience forward and help others achieve their goals.” 

Buffy grew up in Berkshire County, earned her bachelor's degree at MCLA, and also met her husband in the Berkshires. Although she left the area to earn her law degree and to begin her own practice of law, she always knew that she wanted to return to the Berkshires where she now works and resides.

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“I am inspired by MCLA's commitment to providing high quality and accessible public higher education that prepares students for success in the future. I am especially impressed with the depth of the college's offerings along with the college's impact in helping students increase their social mobility. MCLA students and alumni really stand out in our community.” 

A Program Evaluation Consultant for NASH Insights, Mary helps nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and collaborative groups assess needs, evaluate the effectiveness of programs, and implement quality improvements based on findings. Having served on several boards as Chair or President, Mary currently is a Director for the MCLA Foundation Board. 

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“The students at MCLA are truly inspiring—they are driven, resilient, and full of potential. Many come from diverse backgrounds and face unique challenges, yet they bring a passion for learning and a determination to succeed that’s truly remarkable. The Foundation plays a crucial role in supporting these students, not only by providing scholarships and financial aid but also by creating opportunities for personal and professional growth. 
 
Through the Foundation’s work, we help open doors that might otherwise remain closed, whether it’s funding for tuition, support for academic programs, or resources to enhance their educational experience. Seeing the impact—students achieving their dreams, becoming leaders in their communities, and contributing to the world in meaningful ways—is incredibly rewarding. It reminds me why this work matters so deeply and motivates me to keep finding ways to support their success.” 

Colleen Taylor is an accomplished event planner, caterer, and co-owner of BayState Hospitality Group Inc., a restaurant group that owns Craft Food Barn, Trail House Kitchen & Bar, Freight Yard Pub & Restaurant, and Berkshire Catering Co. With her expertise in hospitality, she specializes in creating memorable experiences through innovative menus, impeccable service, and attention to detail. Passionate about weddings and celebrations, Colleen works tirelessly to ensure every event exceeds expectations. 
 
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Colleen is deeply involved in her community. She serves on the Foundation Board at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA), is Vice Chair at 1Berkshire, and is a board member of the North Adams Partnership. 
 
Outside of her professional life, Colleen is a proud mother of three grown adult children and a loving grandmother to her grandson. Known for her leadership, professionalism, and dedication, Colleen is committed to building connections and making her clients' visions a reality. 

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"As the Alumni Association Board of Directors Representative, I believe the two boards complement each other and share a common vision of success for MCLA that includes fostering connection and harboring a strong network of alumni and connection with the institution."

A Senior Program Finance Specialist at General Dynamics Mission Systems, Crystal has also work for several years in the field of finance for the town of Adams, MA.  She received her undergraduate degree from MCLA and a master’s degree from Rutgers University. Crystal has been a member of the MCLA Alumni Association Board since 2022, and a Director for the MCLA Foundation Board since 2023. In addition, Crystal serves as Treasurer on the No Paws Left Behind board of directors and a board member for the Northern Berkshire Events Committee. She is a graduate of the 1Berkshire Leadership Program and a 2024 recipient of the 40 Under Forty Awards. 

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"MCLA is genuinely committed to providing a quality education at an affordable cost. As a graduate of MCLA, being on the Foundation Board provides an opportunity to give back to the College."

A graduate of America’s Community Bankers – National School of Banking, Mike is Vice President and manager of business banking at Greylock Federal Credit Union. Having strong ties to MCLA both as an alum and as a previously serving Foundation Board Director from 2013-2022, and Board Chair from 2018-2020, Mike has dedicated many years to the MCLA community.  As a committee member, he supported the Endowment and Trust Committee, Executive Committee, and most recently the Internal Audit and Finance Committee.  

Mike’s additional volunteer roles include Vice-Chair and Nominating Committee member for Berkshire Housing and a previous 9-year member of the Berkshire United Way board. 

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“As a member of the faculty of MCLA, serving on the board allows me to be a voice for my peers and students. What motivates me most is seeing students succeed.” 

Before joining MCLA in 2016, Tara served as the Chief Operating Officer for Tarm Tax services, where she managed tax compliance issues for individuals and businesses. Her specialization is in Taxation; and in addition to being a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) she is an Enrolled Agent with the Department of Treasury. 
 
Tara's professional experience includes working with Prometrics as a Tax Subject Matters Expert creating content for the Special Enrollment Examination. Additionally, she served as the Audit Chair and Assistant Treasurer for Landmark Credit Union for over 12 years. Currently she serves on the MCLA foundation and the Audit and Finance Committee. Additionally, she is a member of the Board of Directors for No Paws Left Behind and runs MCLA's Volunteer Income Tax Assistant Program and VP of the Delta Mu Delta on campus society and is a member of the MBA advisory board. She has also served on the Academic and Career Advisory Board for the Mass Society of CPAs and the MCLA Curriculum Committee.

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“I was a student at MCLA in the '70s. I know how much my education has meant to me and I want to give incoming students the same opportunities that the college afforded me. Given changes in the economy and the workplace today, we need to keep current on new opportunities to assist in today's workplace as well as keep students grounded in the classical education that lays the groundwork for the rest of their lives.” 

Daniel Bosley, a lifelong resident of the North Berkshire Community, lives in North Adams, Massachusetts with his wife Laura. He is owner of Dan Bosley Consulting Services whose clients have included state and federal policy advocacy groups some of which include the New England Clean Energy Council, the Massachusetts Workforce Professionals Association, Soldier On, a homeless Veteran’s nonprofit, the Massachusetts Farm Bureau, the Massachusetts Forest Alliance, Grey2K and the International Museum of World War of II. Dan is Chair of the MountainOne Holding Company as well as the MountainOne Bank board.  

Bosley served for 24 years as the State Representative from the First Berkshire District. He is credited with several job creation bills creating thousands of jobs across the Commonwealth as well as being the co-author of a groundbreaking life science bill and electricity restructuring in Massachusetts.  

While in the Legislature, Bosley was appointed to the federal USTR’s Intergovernmental Policy Advisory Council and served as the National Chair of the Council of State Governments (2004). Bosley served as the President of the North Adams Steeple Cats, a member of the New England Collegiate Baseball League (NECBL), and as a visiting professor at the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA).   

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“I love helping the future generation of leaders achieve their dreams and am especially inspired to support first-generation college students in their quest for success. Giving back to MCLA/NASC which helped me get to where I am today is a special privilege.” 

Kim, Chief Human Resource Officer at Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance, is a 1989 graduate of MCLA.  She has also served as Vice President of Human Resources for AIG, Liberty International Underwriters, and Lexington Insurance Company. Kim’s volunteer commitments include MCLA Foundation Board Director and member of the Corporate Relations Committee.  In addition, she is a member of the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) Council.    

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Recently joining the MCLA Foundation's Board of Directors, Wende she looks forward to contributing her experience and dedication to this outstanding educational institution. 

She currently serves as the Board President of the MS Foundation. A dedicated advocate for individuals living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), she is also an active supporter of the arts community. 

Wende co-owns a real estate development company with her husband, David Carver. Since being diagnosed with MS in 1994, she has been deeply committed to advancing research and support for those affected by the disease. In 2006, she co-founded a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing education, resources, and support to individuals with MS, their families, and healthcare providers. 

Beyond her advocacy work, Wende has played a significant role in the arts. She served for 15 years on the board of the Williamstown Theatre Festival and is currently a Vice President on the board of the Berkshire Theatre Group. Her passion for the arts is matched by her love for travel—she previously owned a travel agency. 

Her unwavering commitment to philanthropy, community engagement, and professional endeavors continues to make a meaningful impact on those around her. 

Wende and David are proud parents to three daughters and grandparents to nine grandchildren, who bring them immense joy. 

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“What inspires me most in my work with the Foundation is the opportunity to make a tangible, positive impact on the lives of students and communities, particularly those who have been marginalized through various means. I am deeply motivated by the resilience and strength I see in students and staff and the potential for healing and empowerment. 
 
Working on MCLA's Foundation Board allows me to participate in the support, growth, and change to improve the experiences of all at the college. I am also driven by the belief that I can be a powerful tool for change, and through collaboration, we can address the needs of MCLA as an institution. 
 
I do this work because I believe in the power of community and connections. It’s about creating lasting change and ensuring that the college survives and continues students, staff, and administration goals. Nothing is more fulfilling than knowing that my efforts contribute to the mission of MCLA and the college's financial goals towards growth.”

Dr. Jean Clarke-Mitchell, Ph.D., LICSW, is a highly trained and experienced social worker, professor, clinician, and educator with a strong commitment to advancing the field of social work through practice, research, and teaching. She earned her Ph.D. and M.S.W. from Smith College School for Social Work and holds a B.A. in Psychology from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts and a B.S. in Management from the University of Massachusetts.

Dr. Clarke-Mitchell has extensive experience as a clinician, and clinical supervisor providing psychotherapy and consulting services, particularly in the areas of trauma from domestic violence, sexual assault, and intimate partner violence (IPV). She is the owner of Jean Clarke-Mitchell, Ph.D., LICSW, Psychotherapy and Consulting Services, and has held key leadership roles such as Clinical Director at the Elizabeth Freeman Center. She is a professor in the MSW program and a Lesley University core faculty member, is a SIFI trained Field Instructor, and has taught at several other institutions, including Smith College, Westfield State, Cambridge College, Lady of the Elms, and Simmons University.

In addition to her clinical and academic work, Dr. Clarke-Mitchell is deeply involved in community service, holding positions such as Mentor in the Rites Of Passage and Empowerment program for young female scholars of color, Trustee at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts and Board Member and founding member of the Mass Women of Color Network, Inc. She has keynote and presented at national conferences, international organizations, and received several honors, including the BRIDGE Competence Award, MAWOCN Leadership and Legacy Award and the I Survived Award. Dr. Clarke-Mitchell’s research focuses on intimate partner violence, abusive partner education, children’s exposure to abuse, resiliency, and the experiences of African American mothers and daughters. 
 
Her professional affiliations include the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), the American Association of Psychoanalytic Clinical Social Workers (AAPCSW), and she has served on various committees and advisory boards throughout her career. Dr. Clarke-Mitchell’s contributions to the field are recognized for her commitment to education, leadership, and support for oppressed individuals, families, and communities. 

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“As an alum, North Adams community member, and passionate professional focused on the success of the Berkshires, becoming a Foundation member is an investment in helping MCLA to thrive, grow, and contribute to the local, regional and global landscape for generations to come. Having diverse perspectives, a critical eye, and a core belief in the potential and opportunity that the institution offers has brought me to the table, and I am excited to contribute to the strong legacy that the Foundation already holds.”

Vice President of Economic Development at 1Berkshire, Ben is an entrepreneurial focused, intentional risk-taker, eclectic maverick with a propensity for creating opportunities for social engagement, ecosystems of communal pride, and organic innovation. Passionate about advancing the goals of small cities through public service and community organizations, putting social and capital investment in downtown through small main street businesses, improving himself through pursuing a terminal degree, and advancing the field of higher education through engaging as a regional organization leader. 

Committed to economic development in Berkshire County, Ben also serves as Chair of Northern Berkshire Community Coalition and for 8 years he served as a North Adams City Councilor.

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“What inspires me most about working on the Foundation is my ability to give back to an institution that helped blaze the trail of my future. It inspires me to help mentor the next generation of Trailblazers.” 

Michael Muti is a Managing Director for Natixis Investment Managers. In this role, he leads the firm's Mid-Atlantic Wealth Management Region, which aims to provide investment solutions to Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs), Independent Advisors, and Wirehouse Financial Advisors.  

Mr. Muti has over 25 years of industry experience, 20 of which have been at Natixis. Prior to joining the firm in 2004, he worked as a Financial Advisor at Signator Investors in Massachusetts. Mr. Muti holds a BA in both economics and marketing from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. He is FINRA Series 6, 7, 24 and 63 licensed. Mr. Muti has lived in Somerset County, NJ for the past 18yrs with his wife Kate and two college age children. In his free time, Mike can be found at the beach in Massachusetts, skiing in Vermont, attending music concerts, and spending time with his family. 

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“I am in awe of all that MCLA does to transform the lives of its students and enrich the Northern Berkshire community. Particularly striking to me is the success that MCLA has had in launching students from low-income families into well-paying jobs upon graduation. Many of MCLA's graduates end up staying in the region, which then benefits from their energy and talents. I am especially appreciative of the education MCLA offers in the health sciences, including the new four-year nursing program, as this rural area needs more health care professionals.”

As a writer focused on the environment and education, has co-authored and edited several books and written articles for academic journals, newspapers, and magazines. She has contributed to the Washington Post, New York Daily News, International Herald Tribune, and other publications. 
Molly received he undergraduate degree from Williams College and holds an MS from The John Hopkins University.  

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“MCLA has a long history in North Adams and has provided quality and affordable higher education to all. It is also a vital part of the economy of the Northern Berkshires and of North Adams in particular. The Foundation allows me participate with others in providing support to MCLA.” 

Born in Bombay (now Mumbai, India, Stephen attended Williams College and Boston College Law School. He has been practicing law in Berkshire County since 1981 and has been with Donovan O’Connor & Dodig, LLP for the past 25 years. From 2019 through 2025, he was the Solicitor for the City of Pittsfield. Stephen has also been a member of several volunteer and other boards including, Help Line, Visiting Nurses Association of Northern Berkshire, Northern Berkshire Healthcare, Adams Regional Hospital, Williamstown House of Local History, Faith Scarborough Community Service Award Committee, Taconic Golf Club, Turner House, Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation and Adams Community Bank. Stephen is married to Jean Culver. 

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“Supporting young students in our community is my number one inspiration as I wholeheartedly believe education is the backbone of our society, and being a part of sharing the vision of MCLA is a huge responsibility that brings me joy and pride.” 

Xtina is an African wildlife photographer, filmmaker, and conservationist. She also owns ROAM A Xtina Parks Gallery in Williamstown, MA which focuses on African Contemporary Art and fair-trade works.  

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“My passion to make significant contributions to the community has led me to plan for an endowed scholarship at MCLA and I have named MCLA Foundation as a beneficiary of my estate plan. The endowed scholarship will be maintained by MCLA Foundation in perpetuity, contributing to the education and lives of endless generations of MCLA students.” 

In 2009, Bernie Pinsonnault received the Francis H. Hayden Memorial Award. Established in 1968, the Hayden Award is given annually by the Northern Berkshire Chamber of Commerce to a local citizen who has volunteered time, made personal sacrifices, and demonstrated leadership while making significant contributions to the economic, social, and cultural improvement of Northern Berkshire communities. 

Bernie graduated from North Adams State College, now MCLA, with a degree in business administration. In 2019 he retired as owner of Smith Brothers-McAndrews Insurance Agency in Adams. He has worked at Adams Cooperative Bank and at Legacy Bank and has previously served as a trustee of South Adams Savings Bank as well as Adams Community Bank. 
     
Active in local government, Bernie has served as an Adams town meeting representative, a member of the Adams Downtown Development Committee, and a member of the local team that verifies election results.  He used his position at the Berkshire Fund Inc. to found the successful Good Samaritan Home Ownership Program, which provides assistance to low-income families purchasing their first homes.

Bernie’s service to the Berkshire community also includes stints as an assistant basketball coach in the Adams Police Athletic League, treasurer and board member of Adams Little League, and coach and board member of the Adams Youth Soccer League. He is currently serving on the Berkshire Community College Foundation’s board.

A dedicated alumnus, Bernie has served as vice chairman of the MCLA Foundation and on the Foundation’s endowment and trust committee. Bernie also served on MCLA’s Golf Classic committee. 

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“I am the founder of a student debt reduction program for MCLA students. I believe it is important to support and encourage young people to get an education and to help them pay for it if they have limited financial resources.” 

Judith is a Corporate Finance professional, including AT&T Corporate Treasury. Co-founder of Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Kacther, a NY-based financial public relations firm. She received a BA from Rosemont College and an MBA from Temple University. 

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