Tom Bernard ’12 Selected as President, CEO of Berkshire United Way

Tom Bernard has been selected as the new president and chief executive officer of Berkshire United Way (BUW). Bernard has just completed his term as mayor of North Adams. For a decade, Bernard worked in Boston as a freelance writer. He then worked as a development officer at the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art before working as the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts as director of corporate, foundation, and government relations, then executive assistant to the president, and eventually director of business affairs. He then became the director of special projects at Smith College before becoming mayor of North Adams in 2018.

“Tom’s proven leadership experience and dedication to the community will serve him well as head of Berkshire United Way,” said Michael Stoddard, chairman of the BUW board. “He has worked with multiple stakeholders, is familiar with federal and state granting agencies and processes, and has experience in community and economic development, and strategic planning. His leadership and response to the needs of his constituents during COVID-19 also shows his ability to quickly adapt and address emerging and critical needs. His passion for public service, commitment to being an advocate and voice for change, and willingness to collaborate with others to build a stronger community align with Berkshire United Way’s mission and vision. The staff and board look forward to having him join the team.”

Bernard was raised in North Adams. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Williams College in 1992 and his Master of Public Administration from Westfield State University in 2012.