Hello,

As the year draws to a close, we’re reminded of the incredible community we share — one built on connection, generosity, and the shared experiences that shaped our time at Springfield Technical Community College. Our alumni family is at the heart of that community, and that means you.

This season invites us to celebrate the meaningful relationships that continue to grow long after graduation. We are inspired every day by the ways our alumni give back — from mentoring current students, to leading in your professions, to carrying the spirit of STCC into the world.

In this edition, we’re excited to share campus updates and highlight alumni achievements. During this Season of Giving, we invite you to join fellow alumni in making a meaningful difference. Your gift — regardless of size — helps provide scholarships, strengthen student programs, and ensure that future generations have access to the same opportunities that once inspired you.

I also hope you'll consider returning to campus. If you’d like to visit, schedule a tour, or reconnect, please email alumni@stcc.edu or call (413) 755-4475. We look forward to hearing from you and welcoming you back.

Thank you for being an essential part of our story — and for helping us write the next chapter.

Warm regards,

Eunice Guidry

Manager of Advancement & Alumni Relations

When Rachel Begley ‘22 walks through the flowerbeds at her East Longmeadow home, she sees more than a garden – she sees a future she’s been steadily building.



The Springfield Technical Community College alumna, who earned her associate degree in Urban Studies, is now studying Sustainable Landscape Practices at UMass Amherst while running her own business, American Dream Landscape Design, with her sister, Abby.

It’s a path shaped by determination, resilience and a deep connection to the land.

Begley, who grew up on a tree farm in Palmer, took a nontraditional route into higher education. At 23, she prepared for her HiSET (high school equivalency test) through New England Farm Workers Council. Passing that test set her on course for STCC.



“Immediately after, I knew that was going to be the next step forward,” she said. “STCC is very well respected in the area. I had a professor who encouraged me, helped me with support of my academics that first semester, and that was the bridge to get me into a program here.”

Season of Giving

Finding a way to stay in school and transform their lives means STCC students are balancing every responsibility—work, family, and academics—all at once.

Without immediate support, many of our students — 56 percent of whom are Pell Grant–eligible — will struggle to meet their most basic needs. No one should have to choose between staying in school and securing the future it promises and having enough food to get through the day.

What You Can Do

Staying in school gives our students the chance to transform their lives, and they can’t do it without the strength of our community. Community is our middle name, and you are a vital part of it.

• Make a gift today to STCC in support of CAS. Every dollar makes a difference and helps ensure a student stays nourished, focused, and on track to achieve their academic goals.
• Donate food. Unexpired, non-perishable items are always needed and deeply appreciated.
• Share this message with STCC friends and family. Let’s come together—like we always do—to support one another.

Your generosity will make an immediate and meaningful difference, providing students with the essentials and peace of mind they need to succeed during this critical time.

No matter when you graduated, we’re here for you! Career Services offers the same resources to students and alumni, and you can schedule time with a counselor to explore career strategies and professional paths, and review resumes and cover letters. Our Career Coach tool offers detailed job and salary trends for hundreds of in-demand jobs in the Greater Springfield area and beyond. 

Email at nandary2401@stcc.edu or call the office at 413.755.5419 to schedule an appointment soon. 

Make a Difference

Name the location on campus where, on January 25, 1787, thousands of Shays Regulators marched and attempted to seize supplies.

Please email me at emguidry@stcc.edu with your response for a chance to win STCC swag!