Wilbraham Hampden Academic Trust, Inc. Announces New Leadership

Kevin Giordano is the new President of w.h.a.t.

Wilbraham and Hampden, Mass. November 21, 2005—Wilbraham Hampden Academic Trust, Inc. (w.h.a.t.) elected Kevin Giordano as the new president of the educational foundation at its most recent Board of Directors meeting. One of the original Board members, Mr. Giordano looks forward to the continued successful operations of w.h.a.t.

Springfield attorney and Wilbraham resident Kevin Giordano was one of the original directors of w.h.a.t. “In point of fact, it was Kevin’s vision for the organizational structure of w.h.a.t. that was adopted by the founding Board,” said Bob Lounsbury, the outgoing president of the organization. “That structure has served us well and I have no doubt that Kevin will build on w.h.a.t.’s successes and provide exceptional leadership going forward”, Lounsbury added.

Since its inception in July 2003, w.h.a.t. has received more than $110,000 in donations and awarded over $44,000 in grants for educational enrichment programs in the regional district schools. In the last twelve months, though, donations and community involvement have tapered off somewhat. According to Giordano, although this situation has caused concern for the Board, given the nature of w.h.a.t.’s mission, all of the directors are optimistic that residents and businesses in both towns will provide renewed and improved levels of donation in the coming year. “Clearly the public school system is the most important asset our towns have,” observed Giordano. “Without a vibrant school system it’s not only the students that would suffer, but the entire population. If you really think about it, what is more important?”

w.h.a.t. is a non-profit, tax-exempt corporation that was formed for the purpose of funding enrichment activities in the public schools that serve Hampden and Wilbraham. The foundation, which is financially and administratively separate from the school system and from the town governments, raises funds through private donations. w.h.a.t. does not fund routine educational expenses, such as textbooks and salaries, which are the responsibility of the tax-supported school budget. According to the w.h.a.t. Board of Directors, by enriching the educational experience of the students through innovative projects and activities, the educational system and therefore the entire collective community benefits.

Those interested in making a tax-deductible donation to w.h.a.t. should mail it to P.O. Box 477, Wilbraham, MA 01095-0477.