SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – The Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts is seeking nominations from throughout Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, and Berkshire counties for the Pynchon Award, which recognizes those citizens of our region who have rendered distinguished service to the community. The Order of William Pynchon was established by the Advertising Club in 1915 to recognize and encourage individuals whose lives and achievements typified the ideals of promoting citizenship and the building of a better community in western Massachusetts. Past recipients include war heroes, social activists, teachers, volunteers, philanthropists, historians, clergy, physicians, journalists, public servants, and business leaders — a diverse group; each with a passion for our region and a selfless streak. A complete list of recipients since 1915 can be found here.To nominate an individual, please submit a one-page letter explaining why the nominee should be considered. Please include biographical information, outstanding accomplishments, examples of service to the community, organizations he or she is or has been active in, and the names, phone numbers and e-mail addresses of at least three people who can further attest to the nominee’s eligibility for induction into the Order of William Pynchon. The Pynchon Trustees respectfully reserve the right to eliminate nominations from consideration due to insufficient information.

Qualifying nominees will be considered and researched by the Pynchon Trustees, composed of the current and five past presidents of the Advertising Club. Nominations must be submitted by March 19, 2021 to: William Pynchon Trustees, Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts, P.O. Box 1022, West Springfield, MA 01090-1022 or by e-mail.

Pynchon medalists are chosen by unanimous decision of the Pynchon Trustees. 2021 recipients will be announced in June of this year, with an awards ceremony tentatively scheduled for the fall of 2021. Recipients are presented with a bronze medal cast with the name and likeness of Springfield’s founder, William Pynchon, and bearing the inscription: “They honor us whom we honor.”