Center in Tower Square named after Springfield leader

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – A naming ceremony was held at Tower Square in downtown Springfield Tuesday afternoon for the UMass Amherst Henry M. Thomas III Center at Springfield.

This center was named after Thomas to recognize him for his leadership and his contributions to the city and the community.

“To see my father’s name Henry Thomas on this campus is not just a testament to one man, but a recognition of the profound impact that love, leadership, and a commitment to justice can have on an entire community,” said Shadae Harris, the daughter of Henry.

Thomas earned three degrees in Springfield. He was on the chair of the board of Trustees at the University of Massachusetts from 2012 to 2015. At just 25 years old he became the youngest president and CEO of a National Urban League affiliate where he served for 39 years.

For two years he was the vice president for youth development with the Urban League. Thomas also played a role in leading and reviving the oldest African American overnight youth camp in the U.S. Camp Atwater. “It’s well deserved. His commitment to improving the lives of all of us in the Pioneer Valley has been well noted. His advocacy on behalf of UMASS being located here in Springfield was well known to all,” said U.S. Congressman Richard Neal.

When Henry advocated for this center, the president of UMASS, Marty Meehan said he envisioned a place that would provide access to education for those in the city. With that vision, Meehan said the center has helped countless individuals and beyond to pursue their dreams and achieve their full potential in life.

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