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The family of Alvin J. McKenzie has established the Alvin J. McKenzie Scholarship Endowment at Springfield College in memory of Alvin, a man dedicated to education, his family, and his community. This scholarship will provide financial support to undergraduate student(s) annually who demonstrate financial need. Preference is given to a student(s) from an underrepresented population who attended Springfield Public Schools.

Alvin “Big Joe” McKenzie lived the American dream, having immigrated to America at age 39 in 1975 without a job or any marketable skills. Alvin knew that an education was the only way to achieve success. Because of his perseverance, Alvin earned his bachelor’s degree from Springfield College in 1992 at the age of 58.

Alvin was a big believer in education and how it could not only enhance and change lives, but also improve our local community. Alvin passed away in 2007, but his memory and legacy of love to his family, children, and students in our community,  will live on through this scholarship fund benefiting local students. 

To support the Alvin J. McKenzie Scholarship, contact Ryan Coale at
(413) 748-3342
 or at rcoale@springfield.edu. The McKenzie family and Springfield College thank you so much for your continued belief and investment in our youth!