2026 Difference Makers Gala: Tickets & Details

by Grace Chen

BusinessWest’s Difference Makers Gala to Honor Western Massachusetts Community Leaders

Celebrating impactful contributions to Western Massachusetts, BusinessWest will host its 18th annual Difference Makers awards gala on Tuesday, April 7, at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. Tickets are currently available for the event, which recognizes individuals and organizations driving positive change across the region.

Recognizing Regional Impact

The annual gala, a cornerstone of BusinessWest’s commitment to highlighting community betterment, will run from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Individual tickets are priced at $95, with tables accommodating 10 to 12 guests also available for purchase. Interested parties can secure their attendance by clicking here.

This year’s class of Difference Makers, to be fully profiled in the February 16 issue of BusinessWest, represents a diverse range of leadership and dedication. The honorees include:

  • Ryan Alekman and Robert DiTusa, partners at Alekman DiTusa, LLC;
  • Rachelle Hannoush, director of Youth, Violence Prevention, and Court Support Programs at the YWCA of Western Massachusetts;
  • Jess Miller, comedian and founder of The Kind Squad;
  • Darby O’Brien, owner of Darby O’Brien Advertising;
  • Julie Quink, managing principal at Burkhart Pizzanelli, P.C.;
  • Edward Sokolowski, managing partner and wealth advisor at Pioneer Valley Financial Group;
  • Margaret Tantillo, executive director of O’Dell Women’s Center; and
  • Zeno Temple, founder of Just Us Movement.

A Legacy of Recognition

Launched in 2009, the Difference Makers program was created to spotlight the work of individuals, groups, businesses, and institutions actively improving the lives of those in Western Massachusetts. According to a company release, the program aims to foster a culture of civic engagement and celebrate those who go above and beyond.

The 18th annual Difference Makers program is generously sponsored by Burkart Pizzanelli, P.C., TommyCar Auto Group, and Westfield Bank, demonstrating a collective commitment to regional prosperity.

For further information regarding the event, or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, contact Natasha Mercado-Santana, Marketing and Events Manager, at (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or via email at [email protected].

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