GREENFIELD — Greenfield resident Lora Wondolowski has been named the Professional Women’s Chamber 2018 Woman of the Year.
Wondolowski, executive director of Leadership Pioneer Valley, says she is “thrilled and humbled” to be recognized for the award.
“It is especially poignant at a time when women’s issues are more front and center,” she said. “I hope to make an impact in my community and inspire people to do so, too.”
This award, which has been given since 1954, is presented to a western Massachusetts woman who “exemplifies outstanding leadership, professional accomplishment and service to the community.”
“Lora is an outstanding example of the talent and passion that we are lucky to have in our area and we can’t wait to celebrate her,” said Jenny McKay, who serves on the Professional Women’s Chamber’s Board of Directors. Formed in 1953, the Professional Women’s Chamber, an affiliate of the Springfield Regional Chamber of Commerce, has a long history of service to business, the community and other women members.
Wondolowski joined Leadership Pioneer Valley in 2011 as its founding director after serving as the founding executive director of the Massachusetts League of Environmental Voters.
LPV defines its mission as identifying, developing, and connecting diverse leaders to strengthen the Pioneer Valley. It was formed in 2010 to “build a cadre of interconnected emerging and existing leaders to address the challenges and opportunities of the entire Pioneer Valley.”
Wondolowski was one of the founders of the Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center in Turners Falls along with being a volunteer and board member of Pride Zone Youth Center in Northampton and founded the Progressive Christian Voice at First Churches of Northampton.
In addition to her work with the Great Falls Discovery Center, she worked for the League of Conservation Voters Education Fund and the National Audubon Society.
She also serves on the Connecticut River Watershed Council, Partners for a Healthier Community and United Way of Pioneer Valley boards.
A celebration in her honor will be held May 22 at 5:30 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. Reservations can be made at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.
Reach Christie Wisniewski at: 413-772-0261, ext. 280 or
cwisniewski@recorder.com