Brockton BuzzAround

August 17, 2025



~ Building Community One Positive Story at a Time.

Ground-breaking! Massasoit Community College Begins New Science Facility Construction

The $52 million project titled "Transformation Through Renovation" officially broke ground on July 16th, 2025 at the Brockton campus of Massasoit Community College. The new 26,000 square foot Science Building will feature state-of-the-art laboratories, classrooms, offices, student spaces, and a greenhouse that have been designed to meet the needs of 21st century college students. Students will receive their education in a facility outfitted with the latest technology providing them with vital background and experience as they pursue careers in the Massachusetts biotech industry.

This includes a lab that will house the College’s STEM program, a long-term, graduate-level research project that focuses on native pollinators. Program alumni include many Ph.D. graduates and candidates, and the team’s work has been presented at national and international conferences.

After nearly decades of advocacy, funding was received by the Commonwealth. Staff, students, faculty, and partners of the project began designing, researching, and planning as soon as funding was official.

Bill Mitchell, the President of Massasoit Community College said, "Massasoit has always provided our students and the communities we serve with an accessible, affordable, and high-quality education. Massasoit’s new Science Building will truly transform how we deliver in-demand STEM education to the next generation of students in Brockton and beyond."

Thomas Carroll, Jr., the Chair of the Massasoit Community College Board of Trustees was quoted saying, “This project will truly change lives as we continue to do what we do best: provide an unparalleled yet accessible experience to our community.”

Massasoit and the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM) is working with Jones Architecture and Commodore Builders. The completion of the new science facility within the former Liberal Arts Building is scheduled to open for the Fall 2026 semester. The current Science Building will then be gutted and transformed into a new Health Science Building that will house the College’s Nurse Education and Respiratory Technology programs. The Health Science Building will open in time for the Fall 2027 semester.

Written by Serena Croteau, Southern New Hampshire University, Buzz Around Intern

Source and Photo Credits: Alex J. Villanueva, Executive Director of Communications & Marketing, Office of College Communications Massasoit Community College

Supporting Our Schools



"We want to extend a special thank you to Ameresco for its generous donation of $10,000 to Brockton High School in support of ongoing collaborative work around clean and renewable energy initiatives that are tied to work-based learning and professional growth opportunities. This partnership is made possible by the collaborative work by Ameresco CEO George Sakellaris and Business Development Executive Daniel Smith, as well as Brockton Mayor Robert Sullivan and Superintendent Priya Tahiliani!"

Repost: Brockton High School FB

Brockton Area Prevention Collaborative

Overdose Prevention Training Now Available in Spanish!

High Point Prevention Services is proud to announce that our Overdose Prevention Training is available in Spanish, so everyone in our communities has the tools to respond in an emergency.

This training is also available in English, Brazilian Portuguese, and Haitian Creole on YouTube.

Brockton Mayor's Opioid Overdose Prevention Coalition

Recognizing Purple Heart Recipients



"We would like to recognize Brockton’s Purple Heart recipients for their commitment to the service of others. The Purple Heart is truly monumental and deserved. Special thank you to Brockton Firefighter Robert Orcutt as he continues his oath to protect and serve here in the City of Champions."

Repost: Brockton Fire and Life Safety FB

Brockton Public Library Seed Library

"Great news for plant enthusiasts! The Brockton Public Library is excited to announce the launch of our new Seed Library. Now, with your library card, you can borrow free seeds each season to grow your own plants. Visit the Circulation Desk to explore our current selection available for checkout.

We are also gratefully accepting seed donations to help keep our library stocked. Please refer to the attached flyer for more information on how the Seed Library works and how you can contribute."

Repost: Brockton Public Library FB

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Brockton Blooms



"Late summer flowers continue to bloom on Main Street. The Downtown Brockton Association has graciously provided financial resources for the upkeep of the planters on Main Street. We also want to thank Senator Mike Brady and Representative Bridget Plouffe for their efforts to secure funding for such projects."

Repost: Brockton Garden Club FB

Annual Lebanese Festival

Fri. Aug 22 4 - 11p

Sat . Aug 23 11a- 11p

Sun Aug 24 noon- 4p

St Theresa’s Maronite Church

343 Main Street

Admission is free the music and dance are both traditional and modern day, the food selection is extensive, activities for kids and there are vendors too. This event goes on rain or shine. 

SaintTheresa.Brockton FB

Walk Massachusetts Brockton West Side Walk Audit

7-30-25

Courtesy of The Brockton Channels

D.W. Field Park Celebration



Sat & Sun Aug 22-23

12-7p

D.W. Field Park

Join us for a once-in-a-century celebration as DW Field Park turns 100! Bring your family, friends, and festive spirit for two days of unforgettable fun. Live music to keep the vibes high, games for all ages, pony rides for the little ones, and delicious eats from local food trucks. Whether you're a longtime park lover or a first-time visitor, this Centennial Celebration is for YOU. Let’s honor the past and party into the future!

Source: D.W. Field Park FB

Climate Can-Do:

Pollinator Gardens

We can help bees, butterflies, and birds keep our world in balence with an easy- to maintain Pollinator Garden.

Pollinators play a vital role in food production, helping to pollinate a significant portion of the fruits, vegetables, and nuts we consume. By creating pollinator gardens, we can help reverse the decline in pollinator populations, contributing to both ecological health and food security.

It is important to plant native species, so New England flora should be your focus. To attract bees, it is suggested to plant white snakeroot, bluebells, or American trout-liilies. To attract butterflies, plant New York ironweed, white wood astor, or purplestem angelica. Hummingbirds, as well as the other pollinators, are attracted to spotted crane's bill, butterfly milkweed, bee-balm, and white turtlehead.

Economically speaking, seeds are the better way to go. Plant them a season ahead (Fall or WInter). Already grown plants, though pricey, are easier and faster. Not only are these gardens pretty to look at, it will save you some time with yard work since you don't have to mow!

It does not matter how much land you have available, whether it is a four feet by four feet or a whole field, pollinator gardens bring life and beauty into our world. You can be a part of this journey to better our planet, one plant at a time.

Written by Serena Croteau, Southern New Hampshire University, Buzz Around Intern

Source: New England Wildflower Society & U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Volunteering with a Smile!

On July 31, 2025, Beacon team members from Region 5 on the South Shore spent the day giving back at Father Bill’s & MainSpring’s Smith Family Housing Resource Center in Brockton, MA. Volunteers helped assemble food bags and serve meals to local families and individuals in need. Giving back is a core part of Beacon’s culture, all team members receive two paid volunteer days each year to support causes that strengthen their communities. Father Bill’s & MainSpring expressed their sincere gratitude for the support, highlighting the impact volunteers make in helping serve those facing homelessness and hunger.

Source: Father Bill's & MainSpring FB

Fall Swim Lessons

Massasoit Community College

1 Massasoit Blvd

AquaSafe is now accepting fall registration for swim lessons at their new Brockton location at Massasoit Community College! With programs for all ages and skill levels, AquaSafe offers a safe and supportive environment to build confidence in the water.

Space is limited, so early registration is strongly encouraged to secure a spot. Don’t miss this opportunity to dive into a great season of swim lessons right here in Brockton!

Register on AquaSafe Progams

Save The Date! 41st Jack Conway Memorial Golf Tournament



Thursday, September 18th

8a

265 Purchase St, South Easton

Father Bill & Main Spring is thrilled to join Jack Conway for their 41st Jack Conway Memorial Golf Tournament for the Homeless.

Sign up to play or sponsor the event at jackconway.com/golf

Repost: Father Bill & Main Spring FB

31st Annual Cape Verdean Day Festival

On July 27, 2025, Brockton proudly hosted its 31st Annual Cape Verdean Day Festival at Campanelli Stadium, a vibrant celebration of Cape Verdean culture, music, food, and community. The event, which has become a cherished tradition in the city, drew families, friends, and neighbors together for a day filled with pride, unity, and joyful expression. The festival honored the deep cultural roots and contributions of the Cape Verdean community in Brockton and beyond. Attendees enjoyed a dynamic lineup of live music, dance, delicious food, and local vendors. Campanelli Stadium buzzed with energy as colorful flags waved, children played, and generations gathered to celebrate heritage and connection.

More than just a festival, the day served as a reminder of the strength and resilience of the Cape Verdean people and the importance of preserving traditions while embracing new expressions of identity. The annual event continues to grow each year, offering a space for cultural pride, storytelling, and togetherness in the heart of Brockton. As always, the 31st Annual Cape Verdean Day Festival was not only a celebration, but a reflection of the vibrant, diverse spirit of the city and a testament to the power of community.

Source and Photo Credit: Brockton Community Access

Written by Marie Gupton, BuzzAround Intern, Bridgewater State University

Your BuzzAround supports the dignity of all human beings, is actively anti-racist, and supportive of good law enforcement policies. 

Copyright 2025 Buzz Around Brockton. You have our permission to share and copy this issue in its entirety as much as you like. If you take it in part, please give credit. ("Buzz Around Brockton 8/17/25")

Your BuzzAround supports the dignity of all human beings, is actively anti-racist, and supportive of good law enforcement policies.  At the Buzz Around, we promote community. The links provided are for informational purposes. BuzzAround is not responsible for the media content of other organizations.