Springfield, Ma (WGGB/WSHM) - Many of the who’s who in Western Mass packed the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Wednesday to honor the community impact of Denis and Nancy Gagnon, and NBA Hall of Famer Dr. Julius Erving.
The luncheon recognized individuals and organizations whose work exemplifies selflessness, leadership, and meaningful community impact.
The Hall of Fame and Springfield Rotary Club launched their partnership in 2006 with a goal to attract younger members of the community to join the rotary club. Now the money raised from the luncheon helps fund all kinds of community projects and mentorship programs.
As for the honorees, Denis and Nancy Gagnon, owners of East Longmeadow based Excel Dryer, Inc. have donated the time and money toward countless community projects throughout the Western Mass region. While Dr. J has spent years focusing on youth development and education programs from the Salvation Army to the Special Olympics. All three are proud of their Western Mass ties and say they are always happy to come back.
After the afternoon’s festivities, the focus shifted to the MassMutual Center for the Hall of Fame Classic. Where the Albany Great Danes took on the Yale Bulldogs, followed by the primetime matchup of the Boston College Eagles taking on the UMass Minutemen.
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