2007 40 Under 40 Honoree: Addy McCord

Addy McCord joined the Springfield Regional Arts Council as an intern, but through hard work and a passion for the organization’s success, McCord quickly climbed the ranks.

Now, she is the council’s education director, overseeing the development and promotion of after-school programs, summer workshops and regular public programming.

Charged with establishing an education presence in the Creamery Arts Center, McCord said her proudest professional accomplishment “has been contributing to the increased level of community involvement that the Arts Council has displayed in the last five years, including the development of the Creamery Arts Center.”

McCord is passionate about the difference and positive impact the arts can make in the community and finds it empowering to be involved.

“The Creamery holds such meaning to me professionally and personally,” she said. “It is a direct result of dedication, focus and team work. As an intern I was sweeping the front entryway, trying to imagine the building’s potential. Now I see the payoff when a child is engaged in dance or an adult tries a new art form for the first time.”

McCord and her husband, Daniel Malachowski, have a 1-year-old daughter, Jillian, hopes someday to run her own education-related business where she will continue to support the community.

“Education is extremely important to me as a citizen of Springfield and as a mom,” she said. “Springfield is my hometown, and I feel privileged to work in an area that gives so much back. I believe that giving my energy to important issues like children’s matters, poverty and education is essential to me as a professional, mother and concerned citizen. Supporting my community is not only rewarding but vital.”

Stats

Position: Education Director, Springfield Regional Arts Council

Age: 29

Favorite professional sports team: Boston Red Sox, “due to my husband’s family roots in Massachusetts,” and Green Bay Packers, “due to Brett Favre.”

A quote to live by: “If you tell the truth, you might be in trouble, but if you lie, you definitely will be.” – Her mother

Information accurate at the time of the honor.