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In its short duration, 2021 has been an astounding year for DLE Board Member Michelle Lopez.
Earlier this year, as reported in the DLE HUB, Michelle oversaw the largest donor outreach in the history of the Berkshire Immigrant Center, where she serves as Executive Director. More than $430,000 was received to provide assistance to hundreds of immigrant families unable to receive pandemic-related stimulus checks or unemployment assistance.
On April 8, Michelle received exciting news of her selection for the Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires’ Rising Star Award.
“Michelle embodies the definition of our ‘Rising Star’ category as someone new to the Berkshires and the nonprofit sector, and relatively young in her position as Executive Director,” explains Liana Toscanini, Executive Director of the Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires. A panel of 18 judges from the business and nonprofit sectors selected Michelle and other honorees in eight award categories.
“The Berkshire Immigrant Center is thriving under her leadership and her success in rallying others to support the mission was noted,” adds Liana.
Michelle, who will receive her award at the virtual 2021 Awards Ceremony on May 18, admits the news caught her off guard. “I was completely surprised to receive the notification that I’d been nominated by my colleagues. I have been at the Berkshire Immigrant Center and in Berkshire County for just under two years, and the time has gone by so fast,” she notes.
She sees her leadership position as deeply rewarding. “I am lucky to wake up every day and look forward to my job, and the largest part of the reason why is because of those I work with and for. My job has been more than I’d hoped for, in terms of work, but also reward.”
The 4th Annual Berkshire Nonprofit Awards recognize people who work tirelessly in the nonprofit sector to serve the Berkshire community. To attend the virtual ceremony and cheer on Michelle click here. The program is free.
