Paul Lambert & Russo Win 2025 Pynchon Medal
- The Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts' Order of William Pynchon trustees have chosen Paul Lambert and Anthony Russo as this year's Pynchon Medal recipients.
- Kelly McGiverin, chairperson of the Pynchon trustees, emphasized the importance of recognizing local heroes during challenging times.
- Lambert, president and CEO of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra since 2022, initially joined as interim director.
Paul Lambert and Anthony Russo are the 2025 Pynchon Medal recipients, Springfield‘s highest honor for community leadership. Lambert, spearheading the Springfield Symphony’s revitalization, and Russo, donating his entire city council salary to local charities, exemplify selfless dedication. Lambert not only guided the symphony through financial challenges but also broadened its cultural reach, while Russo continues his impactful support, notably creating programs like “Sand for Seniors” and championing Toys for Tots. News Directory 3 is following these stories closely. This recognition highlights their profound impact on Springfield.The fall ceremony promises to be a memorable event. Discover what’s next for these local heroes.
Springfield Honors Local Heroes with Pynchon Medal
Updated June 28,2025
The Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts’ Order of William Pynchon trustees have chosen Paul Lambert and Anthony Russo as this year’s Pynchon Medal recipients. The award recognizes their outstanding community leadership and selfless contributions.
Kelly McGiverin, chairperson of the Pynchon trustees, emphasized the importance of recognizing local heroes during challenging times. She said Lambert and Russo exemplify selflessness and community obligation.
Lambert, president and CEO of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra since 2022, initially joined as interim director. He successfully navigated the organization through significant financial and contractual hurdles, ensuring the continuation of live classical music in the region. His leadership has fostered cultural diversity within the symphony’s programming, attracting a wider audience.
Before his role at the symphony, Lambert dedicated two decades to the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, developing community engagement programs that connected residents, particularly youth, with the organization. He remains active in the Springfield Rotary Club, contributing to programs that aid those in need, including a monthly meal service for the area’s homeless population. His dedication showcases true community leadership.
Russo, the Agawam City Council vice president, is recognized for his responsive leadership and commitment to the community’s moast vulnerable. He donates his entire council salary to local charities and families, with a focus on ensuring children have gifts during the holidays.For years, he has supported toys for Tots drives with a carload of toys purchased with his earnings.
Russo also created the Sand for Seniors program, personally delivering sand to over 60 residents for safer home access during winter. He volunteers regularly at the Agawam Senior Centre, assisting with meal service and social activities. His charitable work highlights his role as a local hero.
what’s next
The Pynchon Medal presentation and celebration will take place this fall. The date and time will be announced later.