Westfield State University: A Legacy of Notable Alumni
Westfield State University, a public institution in Westfield, Massachusetts, boasts a rich history and a diverse array of accomplished alumni. Founded in 1839 as a state normal school in Barre, Massachusetts, by Horace Mann, it distinguished itself by offering entry regardless of race, gender, or economic class. This commitment to inclusivity laid the foundation for a university that has produced leaders and innovators across various fields. Originally the Barre Normal School, it moved to Westfield in 1844, becoming the Westfield Normal School.
A Foundation of Education and Innovation
The early years of Westfield State were marked by a commitment to teacher training. Samuel P. Newman, a professor and administrator at Bowdoin College, served as the school's first principal. The institution played a crucial role in shaping the educational landscape of Massachusetts and beyond. Over time, it evolved into Westfield State Teachers College and eventually Westfield State University, broadening its academic offerings while maintaining its dedication to public service.
Notable Alumni in Politics and Public Service
Westfield State University has produced numerous alumni who have made significant contributions to the political landscape at local, state, and national levels.
Domenic J. Sarno, the current mayor of Springfield, Massachusetts, stands as a testament to Westfield State's impact on local governance. First elected in 2007, Sarno has secured re-election multiple times, becoming the longest-serving mayor in Springfield's history.
Donald F. Humason Jr., another prominent alumnus, served as the mayor of Westfield, Massachusetts, from 2020 to 2022. A member of the Republican Party, Humason previously represented the 2nd Hampden and Hampshire District in the Massachusetts Senate and the 4th Hampden District in the Massachusetts House of Representatives.
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James T. Welch represented the Hampden district in the Massachusetts Senate after serving as the Massachusetts State Representative for the 6th Hampden district. His career reflects a deep engagement with the needs and concerns of his constituents.
Todd M. Smola, a Republican member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, represents the 1st Hampden District. Brian M. Ashe, a Democratic politician, represents the 2nd Hampden District in the Massachusetts House of Representatives.
Christopher J. Donelan, the current Sheriff of Franklin County, Massachusetts, previously served as a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives.
Henry Waterman Warren was an American teacher, plantation owner, tanner, judge, and politician.
George Bruce Cortelyou served in various capacities in the presidential administrations of Grover Cleveland, William McKinley, and Theodore Roosevelt.
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These individuals exemplify the commitment to public service instilled in Westfield State graduates. Their dedication to their communities and their ability to navigate the complexities of political life underscore the university's role in shaping civic leaders.
Legal Luminaries
Westfield State University's influence extends to the legal profession, with several alumni achieving distinction in the field.
Eduardo C. Robreno is a former United States district judge of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania and the first Cuban-American to be appointed as a federal judge.
Pioneers in Science and Academia
Westfield State University has also nurtured talent in the sciences, with alumni making significant contributions to research and discovery.
Nettie Maria Stevens was an American geneticist who discovered sex chromosomes. Her groundbreaking work in the early 20th century revolutionized the field of genetics. Stevens observed that male mealworms produced two kinds of sperm, one with a large chromosome and one with a small chromosome. This discovery led to the identification of X and Y chromosomes, fundamentally changing our understanding of sex determination.
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Dr. Charles B. was known world- wide for his work investigating parasitic copepods found in common fish.
Dr. Kimberly Tobin has been a dedicated member of Westfield State University (WSU) since 1998, initially serving as a faculty member in the criminal justice department before transitioning to administrative roles. With numerous published works, including a co-authored work that received the Michael J. Hindelang Outstanding Book Award, Dr. Tobin is highly regarded in her field.
Contributions to Arts and Entertainment
Westfield State University's alumni have also made their mark in the world of arts and entertainment.
Jennifer Lafleur is an American actress known for her roles in independent films and television series. She has appeared in "The Do-Deca-Pentathlon," "The Pretty One," "The Midnight Swim," "MAD," and "6 Years." Her television credits include "Big Little Lies," "Room 104," "Billions," "American Crime," "Chicago Fire," and "Workaholics."
Marsha Bemko is an American television producer and the executive producer of the PBS series "Antiques Roadshow."
Athletics
Peter Philip Laviolette Jr. is an American professional ice hockey coach and former player who is the head coach for the New York Rangers of the National Hockey League (NHL). He led the Hurricanes to a Stanley Cup win in 2006, and later coached the Flyers to the Stanley Cup Finals in 2010, as well as the Predators in 2017. Laviolette is the fourth coach in NHL history to lead three teams to the Stanley Cup Finals.
Contributions to Law Enforcement
Benjamin James Campbell, served as Detective Ben Campbell with the Maine State Police. From his training in the Basic Law Enforcement Program to his promotion as a licensed polygraph examiner, Campbell was known for his helpfulness, care, and approachability within the community.
David Campbell retired from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in 2018 after a distinguished serving in law enforcement for 31 years. During his ATF tenure, Campbell's roles expanded to include membership in ATF's Special Response Team, where he led high-risk operations nationwide.
Cheryl Clapprood, Springfield's Police Superintendent, boasts over 40 years of dedicated service to the city. Commencing her law enforcement journey as a Springfield Police Cadet in April 1979, Clapprood officially became a sworn officer after completing the Police Academy in October 1981.
John Kotfila Jr. dedicated six years of service to the Hillsborough County Florida Sheriff’s Department. On March 12, 2016, Kotfila protected innocent lives while traveling on the Selmon Expressway in Tampa, Florida, from a wrong-way drunk driver.
Kenneth M. O'Connor Jr. dedicated 37 years to serving the Massachusetts Trial Court, demonstrating unwavering commitment and leadership across various roles.
Jeffrey Trask is a highly accomplished professional with a diverse background in criminal justice, emergency management, and insurance risk management. Prior to his current role, Trask spent three years as the Senior Director in the Office of Enterprise Resilience and Global Operations at Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company.
Business and Entrepreneurship
Norman Wait Harris was an American banker. He founded Chicago-based N.W. Harris & Co., the predecessor of Harris Bank as well as its affiliate Harris, Forbes & Co. and later Harris, Hall & Co.
Paula Long is an American software engineer and entrepreneur. She was CEO and co-founder of DataGravity and in 2001, she co-founded EqualLogic, which was later sold to Dell.
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