BERNARDSTON — After three years at the helm of the Bernardston Senior Center, Director Jennifer Reynolds has announced her resignation, effective Jan. 3, 2025.

Reynolds, a Deerfield resident, has been tapped to serve as director of the Ralph J. Froio Senior Center in Pittsfield starting Jan. 6.

“It’s a new chapter full of possibilities,” she said. “I’m eager to learn, listen and collaborate with the Pittsfield community and Mayor [Peter Marchetti] to understand their unique means.”

Reynolds used her time at the Bernardston Senior Center to introduce essential services and create new opportunities for seniors, including wellness programs, meals and engaging activities “that bring joy and connection to the seniors,” she explained.

One of Reynolds’ key goals when she moved into the role of Bernardston Senior Center director, a position formerly held by Hayley Bolton, was to create an inclusive space where every senior can feel seen, supported and valued, while also transforming the Senior Center into a “true hub for the community.”

“I’m proud that we’ve achieved that vision, and the feedback from seniors and their families has been incredibly rewarding and reminds me daily why this work matters,” Reynolds said adding that the seniors, staff, volunteers and broader community were an essential part of her journey. “Leaving the Bernardston Senior Center is definitely bittersweet.”

Reynolds plans to use the experience she gained in Bernardston to help with her new position in Pittsfield, where she hopes to bring fresh energy and innovative ideas that will enhance the services and programs available.

While she has left her director’s title behind, Reynolds still plans to be involved with the community by volunteering with the Bernardston Kiwanis Club, which she joined this year.

“The relationships I’ve built and the progress we made together will always hold a special place in my heart,” she said. “I am deeply grateful to the town of Bernardston for being such a wonderful partner in this journey.”

According to Reynolds, the town has already received some resumes for applicants looking to fill her position and interviews are underway. It may be possible to have a replacement by her departure date, otherwise Senior Center staff and Council on Aging Chair Nancy Bordewieck will assist with handling Reynolds’ responsibilities during the transition period.

The Selectboard read a letter during its Wednesday meeting, sharing town officials’ appreciation for Reynolds’ work.

“Under your guidance and direction, the Senior Center has become a welcoming place that offers a range of services to help older adults ... by encouraging independence, promoting health, reducing isolation and providing resources,” the Selectboard’s letter reads. “You have been committed to empowering people as they age with compassion and we express our sincere appreciation for creating a culture of belonging for all of our staff, volunteers, partners and those we serve.”