PITTSFIELD, Mass. — More than 300 community members attended the 40 Under Forty Awards celebration on Thursday, recognizing individuals who are dedicated to improving the quality of life for those in the Berkshires. 

 

Berkshire Community College received several hundred nominations this year and narrowed it down to 40 unsung heroes who have achieved many accomplishments, college President Ellen Kennedy said. 

 

Kennedy said it was wonderful to see previous winners nominating the next generation. 

 

"They sort of understand the importance of what this recognition can symbolize to people and the inspiration it can provide to people to be connected and committed to what's happening in the Berkshires," she said. "So it's been exciting to see it evolve that way."

 

The event is a moment to both pause but also go forward, Kennedy said afterward.

 

"So pause and really celebrate all of this talent and interest and these really creative, innovative, hard working, committed individuals, but it's also a moment to push forward on the next round of entrepreneurial innovation that can happen in the Berkshires. And a lot of these people bring that spirit to that," she said. 

 

The winners come from diverse backgrounds, including longtime residents with deep roots in the Berkshires as well as newcomers who have recently moved to the area and are already making a mark, Kennedy said.