Press Release  Healey-Driscoll Administration Recognizes Local Workforce Leaders Recognized with MassHire Awards

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll Administration this week hosted the 2025 MassHire Awards Celebration, Leaning Into the Future, recognizing local workforce leaders for their efforts in supporting jobseekers and employers and demonstrating innovation, mentorship, emerging leadership, and the spirit of MassHire’s values. Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll and Secretary Lauren Jones of Labor and Workforce Development were among featured speakers for the awards ceremony which included 13 awards for local leaders and teams across the MassHire workforce system.

“Across our career centers and workforce boards, the strength of MassHire comes from the people who care deeply about the communities they serve,” said Governor Healey. “Their dedication to helping jobseekers and employers is what keeps our communities moving forward, and I’m deeply grateful for their commitment to public service.”

“I’ve seen firsthand how MassHire strengthens our local economies and opens doors for jobseekers and our employers,” said Lieutenant Governor Driscoll. “The teams and individuals we’re recognizing today embody the spirit of MassHire and innovation that helps communities grow and keeps Massachusetts competitive.”

“The MassHire system works to connect our untapped talent with employers in every corner of the state,” said Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones. “Today’s awards highlight those throughout the MassHire system who work tirelessly to help our residents find their next job, get the training they need to start a new career or excel in their current career, and connect with employers in their region to meet current and future hiring needs. Congratulations to all the awardees and those nominated. Your work is helping us attract and retain a more equitable and competitive workforce.”

MassHire creates and sustains connections between businesses and jobseekers through a statewide network of employment professionals. The MassHire Department of Career Services (MDCS) offers jobseekers a range of services, such as working with seasoned career counselors to locate career development workshops and short-term training, accessing current local and statewide job openings, resume and cover letter writing, and more. MDCS also supports Massachusetts employers with recruitment and hiring services, including resume screening, promoting job openings, and applying for tax credits.

“Today we celebrate workforce leaders who not only provide career services across the Commonwealth but who also foster community connections at time when more people are isolated and disconnected from genuine opportunity,” said Undersecretary of Workforce Alysia Ordway. “By investing their time and expertise in others, these champions of career development inspire possibility and strengthen entire communities with each person that they empower to take the next step on their career journey. 

“These awards are a testament to the incredible dedication, talent, and heart our staff bring to their work every day,” said Director at the MassHire Department of Career Services Beth Goguen. “Whether they’re helping jobseekers find meaningful careers or supporting businesses in building strong, skilled teams, our staff are the driving force behind a more resilient and inclusive workforce across Massachusetts.”

Awardees

Collaboration Award: The award celebrates collaborations that deliver meaningful results for businesses and jobseekers, removes barriers to employment, and creates innovative solutions in both bussness and career services.

• Jobseeker Collaboration Award: Lowell Career Center Emergency Shelter Response Team - When more than 300 new arrivals came to Lowell, the MassHire Lowell Career Center rose to the challenge. By partnering with Commonwealth Care Alliance, Abisi Adult Education Center, the City’s Health Department, Community Teamwork Inc., and others, the team combined resources to support job placement. Their efforts resulted in hundreds of people finding employment and building strong, lasting connections within the community—demonstrating the team’s exceptional collaboration and impact. Award recipients: Nicholas Campbell, Myrlande Emmanuel, Zaris Huerta, Emmanuel Senat.
• Business Collaboration Award: Cape & Islands Workforce Board ArtWorks Program - For 30 years, the MassHire Cape & Islands ArtWorks Program has given young adults hands-on experience in the creative economy. Students complete internships with local professional artists and showcase their work annually at the ArtWorks Exhibit. ArtWorks thrives through collaboration between artists, students, cultural organizations, educators, and employers across the Cape and Islands. Award recipients: Kara O’Donnell, Samantha Fonesca, Kim McLaughlin, and Abigail Despres.
• Business Collaboration Award: Greater New Bedford Workforce Board Youth Team - The MassHire Greater New Bedford Youth Team connected 280 young people with over 40 local employers, fostering skills, growth, and lasting community connections. Their thoughtful matching and support turned placements into sustainable partnerships, showcasing excellence and collaboration in workforce development. Award recipients: Christina Baptiste, Lindsey Souza, Brandon Soares, Tayla Costa, Johana Santos, Nick Fonseca

Modernization and Innovation Award: This award recognizes the individual or team that serves as a catalyst for reimagining career and employer service delivery to drive meaningful impact across the region.

• Awardee: James Foley - Storytelling showcases the true value and impact of an organization. Jim Foley has mastered this at the MassHire Lowell Career Center, using video to bring job seeker success stories to life. His work highlights how MassHire services transform careers while recognizing the dedicated staff behind each success. Through his creative and modern approach, Jim has built a powerful way to promote the MassHire brand and its impact on the community.

MassHire Emerging Leaders: This award honors individuals new to the MassHire system - those with less than five years of direct service experience— who represent the future of career services and exemplify customer service.

• Awardee: Tate Hayman - Since joining MassHire Holyoke in 2022, Tate Hayman has transformed workforce development through innovation and leadership. As a bilingual workshop facilitator, he built the center’s workshop program from the ground up. Tate goes beyond the classroom, providing personalized support, refining sessions based on feedback, and expanding access through partnerships with libraries and adult education programs. His innovation, dedication, and impact on hundreds of jobseekers make him a true Emerging Leader.

Mentor and System Steward: This award honors a leader who actively develops emerging talent, fosters innovation, and empowers others to lead with purpose and vision.

• Awardee: Neil Sullivan - For nearly 33 years, Neil Sullivan has led the Boston Private Industry Council (PIC) / MassHire Boston Workforce Board, establishing nation-leading programs in workforce development. A passionate mentor, Neil has inspired hundreds of staff, partners, and young people — many of whom now lead workforce, education, and policy initiatives across the country. His leadership has opened doors for tens of thousands of students to explore careers, gain experience, and discover pride in their work.

Spirit of MassHire Award: This award honors individuals who embody the Spirit of MassHire—those who champion prosperity by connecting employers with talent and helping jobseekers access the tools, services, and opportunities needed to achieve their goals.

• Awardee: Eliud Alcala - Eliud embodies MassHire’s mission of creating a better future for the people and businesses of Massachusetts through meaningful work and sustainable growth. Known across the North Shore for his kindness, professionalism, and dedication, he connects jobseekers with opportunities and employers with talent—always with genuine care and respect. His leadership, compassion, and commitment to the greater good make him a deserving recipient of this award honoring the late David Gadaire, reflecting David’s same warmth, dedication, and vision.

Statements of Support

Ed O’Sullivan, Executive Director, MassHire North Shore Workforce Board

“We at Masshire Hire North Shore are so proud that Eliud is being presented with the MassHire Spirit Award.  Eliud consistently demonstrates a profound understanding of the diverse needs and professional aspirations of those we serve. Whether guiding a young adult toward a first job or helping a seasoned professional navigate a career transition, Eliud ensures that every individual feels seen, supported, and empowered. His efforts have not only improved outcomes for our customers but have also elevated the standards and spirit of our MassHire team.”

Stacia MacNaught, Chair of the MassHire Boston Workforce Board /Private Industry Council and Vice President, Community Affairs and Chief of Staff to the CEO for External Affairs, Vertex Pharmaceuticals

“For more than three decades, Neil Sullivan has been committed to the simple notion that good jobs at good wages can transform lives and build stronger communities.  Through his passionate and innovative leadership, he has made Boston a better place to live, to work, and to raise a family.  This award is a recognition of the lasting partnerships he has created - uniting government, business, and nonprofits to foster a dynamic and sustainable workforce in Boston and beyond.” 

Peter Farkas, President and CEO, Hampden County Workforce Board
Congratulations to all this year’s MassHire Award winners, whose dedication, innovation, and commitment to workforce development are shaping the future of career services across Massachusetts. We’re especially proud of Tate Hayman, Emerging Leader winner from MassHire Holyoke Career Center, who built and designed the Career Center’s workshop series, positively impacting hundreds of jobseekers. Tate consistently goes above and beyond, and his creativity, dedication, and leadership exemplify the next generation of MassHire professionals.

Kara O’Donnell-Galvin, Executive Director, Cape and Islands Workforce Board
“We are deeply honored to be recognized with the MassHire Business Collaboration Award. The success of the ArtWorks Program is the result of strong collaboration, trusted partnerships, and the unwavering dedication of our community. We are proud to stand among colleagues across the Commonwealth who are making meaningful impact every day.”

John Palmieri, Board Chair of MassHire Greater Lowell
“We are pleased to acknowledge James Foley's efforts at extending the MassHire brand and connecting talent with opportunity. Additionally, the MassHire Greater Lowell team who supported the newcomers shelter in Lowell has demonstrated compassion and professionalism. Their efforts in providing essential services and support have been instrumental in helping clients integrate and find stable employment, embodying our commitment to serving all members of our community."

Duarte Silva, Executive Committee Chair, Greater New Bedford Workforce Board
“On behalf of the Greater New Bedford Workforce Investment Board, it is a privilege to recognize the outstanding work of our Youth Program leaders and the achievements of our participants. The collaboration between leaders and participants, who together strive for excellence, is aptly acknowledged by today’s presentation by the Healey-Driscoll Administration. Thank you to the Healey Administration for this recognition, and to our executive director, Michael Santos, for his leadership.”

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