Posts by Hayley Sotolotto

The Mary Lyon Foundation is proud to support the E.W. Martin II Endowed Memorial Scholarship, a tribute to the remarkable life and enduring legacy of our neighbor Edgar W. Martin II. Edgar, who called Shelburne Falls home before settling in Ashfield, made meaningful contributions to the West County community, leaving a lasting impression that continues…

Ron L. James, a member of the Mary Lyon Foundation’s Board of Trustees, has a profound story of redemption and transformation. Having faced challenges including substance abuse, serving 25 years in prison, and homelessness, he has turned his trials into triumphs. Ron is committed to sharing his experience so others don’t walk the same difficult…

Andrew Doty’s formative years at the Mohawk Trail Regional School District launched a passion for helping others, eventually leading him to medical school. Shaped by the guidance of his mentors and the support of his school community, his experiences set him on a path to making a meaningful impact in the medical field. As a…

Students and families in the Mohawk Trail and Hawlemont School districts face immense challenges. Over fifty percent of the student body does not have enough food to nourish their bodies and minds, warm winter coats, heat, hot water, gas money, or emergency funds. In this incredibly hot summer, most cannot afford the electricity to cool…

With blossoms on the trees, there is nothing like the anticipation of summer. We eagerly await long, hot days in the spring, swimming at the local pool and enjoying abundant fresh local produce and ice cream on a cone dripping down our hands. It is also a time of transition for our graduating seniors. Our…

As we begin 2024, I reflect on my journey as Executive Director at the Mary Lyon Foundation.  Three years have passed since Sue passed the torch, and I have done my best to walk in her footsteps and honor the legacy of Mary Lyon. Over the past three years, I have often thought about the…

The Caring is Sharing Clothing Closet By fostering positive educational achievements that help students thrive, the Mary Lyon Foundation has steadfastly advocated for students and faculty within the Mohawk Trail community. One shining example is the Caring is Sharing Clothing Closet, a groundbreaking initiative spearheaded by the Key Club with backing from advisor Lisa Camarda,…

Thank you to everyone who celebrated our Campaign for Student Success at the Crazy Horse Bar and Grill in June! Because of our community’s dedication to ensuring our students learn, succeed, and thrive, we’ve made remarkable strides in reaching our $5 million-dollar fundraising goal. Special thanks to local musicians Greg Daniel Smith and Tory Hanna…

Arthur DeBow is an active Mary Lyon Foundation board member and an ardent advocate for local K-12 students and their families. Arthur’s dedication to providing opportunities for student success is inspiring and has made him an invaluable asset to the Foundation. By working to mobilize services and programs that create positive educational outcomes, Arthur empowers…

The Mary Lyon Foundation’s support and dedication to the community were critical for many families during the chaos and uncertainty of COVID-19. Kecelyn DeArmond, a parent whose children attend Hawlemont Elementary School, recalls how the Mary Lyon Foundation provided her family with crucial aid and renewed hope during those particularly challenging times. Coping with Homeschooling…