Westfield State University Hosts Second Annual Keeper of the Dream Dinner

In celebration of Black History Month, Westfield State University, in collaboration with the Cities of Westfield and West Springfield, held its second annual Keeper of the Dream Dinner on Thursday, February 13, 2025. The event honored those who continue Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy by pursuing social justice and inclusive excellence. Westfield Bank and Westfield Gas & Electric sponsored the event, which started with a VIP reception at the Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel. At 5:30 p.m., there was a cocktail hour, and at 6:30 p.m., there was a formal dinner and awards ceremony.

Westfield State University President Linda Thompson delivered opening remarks, reflecting on the institution’s commitment to accessibility and equity, values championed by its founder, Horace Mann. “When Horace Mann founded our institution in 1839, he did so with the understanding that students of any creed, color, gender, or financial standing should have full access to a quality education,” she said. “Following these principles, Westfield State continues to value engaged citizenry, access, diversity, inclusion, and belonging, and we strive for excellence to create a solid foundational learning experience for our students. We are collaborative and supportive, and we commit to engaging with those around us.”

In her remarks, she also underlined Dr. King's vision's enduring influence and reaffirmed the significance of advocacy and civic duty. “The teachings and influence of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. remind us that we have a sacred and solemn duty as educators in creating tomorrow’s leaders with equality of opportunity in mind,” President Thompson continued. “To uplift the voices of those who are unheard, to support and strengthen those downtrodden or disempowered, and to resolve to be a resource and advocate for those in need. Now, more than ever, we must continue to lift up those who contribute to bringing humanity.”

The evening’s keynote address was delivered by Nettie Washington Douglass, the great-great-granddaughter of Frederick Douglass and great-granddaughter of Booker T. Washington. As the co-founder and Chairwoman Emerita of Frederick Douglass Family Initiatives, Washington Douglass has devoted her professional life to combating human exploitation, promoting education, and racial equity. In addition to volunteering with the United Negro College Fund, she was a former civil servant from Atlanta, Georgia, and a member of the Friends of Frederick Douglass Board of Directors.

Following Douglass’ address, six individuals for their outstanding contributions to social, academic, and community engagement were recognized and honored with Keeper of the Dream Awards, including Firefighter Jon-Randel Quarles and Police Sergeant Juanita Mejias from the City of Westfield; Onix Cruz, Lead Custodian from the West Springfield Public Schools; Matt Griffin, IHD Supervisor and Girls Track and Field Coach also from the West Springfield Public Schools; Marjorie Rodriguez, Assistant Director for Student Access & Support for the Office of Belonging, Inclusion, and Learning; and Dr. Carlton Pickron, Retired Vice President of Student Affairs from Westfield State University.

Additionally, the Westfield State University Foundation recognized four students for their dedication to community service and leadership in promoting equality and justice by awarding them Keeper of the Dream Scholarships. The recipients included Catrina Casting, Bronwyn Pinsly, Mekhi Bowen, and Troy Thomas.