SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The city of Springfield recognized a woman who is celebrating decades of experience helping local youth succeed.

Junior Achievement of western Massachusetts president, Jennifer Connolly had a special retirement party this evening. For more than 20 years, she was instrumental in advancing and enhancing the agencies programs and initiatives. It included their expansion into Tower Square in downtown Springfield.

22News spoke with Connolly as she looks back at her two decades of helping over 200,000 kids thrive in the city. “To know that I made a difference and that I helped them and to be able to see that more children can com here and do different things and learn things and they can learn from the business people, its what I got for it everyday,” expressed Connolly.

Amie Miarecki will take over the duties as president of Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts.