Robert Kennedy Community Service Award
Robert Kennedy
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In 2018, with the celebration of its 70th Anniversary, the Worcester Youth Orchestras created the Robert Kennedy Community Service Award to recognize a member of the community who has provided opportunities and outstanding support to young people in the community. Robert Kennedy has not only been a major supporter of WYO, but also to young people in Central Massachusetts, ensuring that they have access to performing in a world class venue, Mechanics Hall. It seemed only fitting that we honor Bob when he retired in 2018 from his position as Executive Director at Mechanics Hall.
2018 - Robert M. Kennedy, Executive Director, Mechanics Hall 2019 - Bruce Hopper, Past WYO Board Chair & Board Member 2020 - Deborah Cole*, Head of Music, Burncoat High School 2021 - Johnetta Smith, Band Director, South High School 2022 - Kevin Maguire & Sara Hubbard, WYO Board Members - In recognition of 10 years of service. 2023 - Sarah Smongeski, Executive Director, Pakachoag Music School 2024 - Chloe Nester Sundberg*, Art Teacher, Worcester Public Schools *WYO Alum |
2025 Recipient: Kathleen Gagne
Gagne joined Mechanics Hall in 1994 as a publicist and worked her way up to the top leadership position in 2018. In this role, she guided the nonprofit through significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, while overseeing major capital improvement projects.
Under her direction, Mechanics Hall underwent major upgrades to its sound and lighting systems, ensuring the historic 1857 performance hall remains a world-renowned venue. She also spearheaded the "Portraits Project," which commissioned portraits of 19th-century Black leaders for the Great Hall gallery, to better reflect the venue's history and community. Gagne expanded the hall's youth programming by establishing the Many Voices: Mechanics Hall Youth Singers, which provides free choral education to children in Worcester.
Under her direction, Mechanics Hall underwent major upgrades to its sound and lighting systems, ensuring the historic 1857 performance hall remains a world-renowned venue. She also spearheaded the "Portraits Project," which commissioned portraits of 19th-century Black leaders for the Great Hall gallery, to better reflect the venue's history and community. Gagne expanded the hall's youth programming by establishing the Many Voices: Mechanics Hall Youth Singers, which provides free choral education to children in Worcester.
