North Adams — The “Berkshire SUCC3SS Summit: Culture Shift — Crafting Our Community and Economic Blueprint,” is set to spark a transformative dialogue on community empowerment and sustainable development. Scheduled for February 26 and 27, 2025, from 9 to 5 p.m., at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts in North Adams, this groundbreaking two-day event brings together an impressive lineup of community leaders, policymakers, and industry innovators committed to shaping a brighter future for the Berkshire community.
The summit will feature five dynamic keynote speakers:
- Leigh Davis, state representative for the 3rd Berkshire District — With a distinguished career in public service, State Rep. Davis will provide insights into effective leadership and policy strategies that drive community progress.
- Dr. Imari Paris Jeffries, CEO of Embrace Boston — A visionary in community engagement, Dr. Jeffries will speak on uniting Boston and the Berkshires to elevate Black culture, economic equity, and spatial justice.
- Tiffany Alecia, executive director of Springfield City Creative Collective — Known for her transformative work in arts and cultural development, Alecia will explore how creative initiatives can fuel economic growth and neighborhood revitalization.
- Emmet Pierson Jr., president and CEO of Kansas City Builders — Managing over $250 million in assets, Pierson will share his expertise on empowering communities through impact development, award-winning community programs, and neighborhood collaboration.
- Michael Bobbit, executive director of the Mass Cultural Council — Bobbit will highlight the transformative power of investing in the arts, demonstrating how creative expression can catalyze community impact and social change.
“We are at a pivotal moment where visionary leadership and collaborative action are essential for crafting a resilient future,” said John Lewis, executive director and cofounder of Blackshires Community Empowerment Foundation and codesigner of the Berkshire SUCC3SS Summit. “By uniting experts from diverse sectors—from public policy and community development to the arts—we are building a comprehensive blueprint that addresses today’s challenges and sets the stage for tomorrow’s success.”
In addition to the stellar lineup of keynote speakers, the Berkshire SUCC3SS Summit has launched an updated website. The site offers an immersive experience where you can engage with:
- Power-packed roundtable discussions — Witness community members, thought leaders, policymakers, business owners, and heads of nonprofits come together in discussions on critical topics including neighborhood revitalization, health equity, equity in arts and innovation, and travel and hospitality.
- Interactive content — Explore agendas, session highlights, and detailed profiles of our speakers and panelists.
- Community engagement — Stay connected with real-time updates and opportunities to contribute to the dialogue shaping our community’s future.
Summit highlights
Inspiring keynotes and panel discussions: Gain insights from leading figures in policy, creative innovation, and strategic development.
Interactive workshops and roundtables: Engage in sessions that foster economic empowerment, innovative arts investment, and effective community collaboration.
Networking opportunities: Connect with community leaders, local government officials, and industry experts dedicated to driving positive change.
Collaborative planning: Contribute to actionable strategies shaping a sustainable and thriving Berkshire community.
The Berkshire SUCC3SS Summit: Culture Shift is more than an event—it is a movement. It calls upon community members and leaders to unite, innovate, and pave the way for a prosperous future.
For more information about the summit and to register, click here or explore the summit’s new interactive site.
