James Sheils has received the first John Auchter Award from Goodwill Industries of the Pioneer Valley for his more than three decades of service to the non-profit organization.
The new award, which honors those who show extraordinary dedication to community service, is named for the late John R. Auchter, a Pioneer Valley attorney whose own distinguished service to Goodwill included forty years as director, president, and chairman of the board. Following the example set by Auchter, Attorney Sheils has served on the Goodwill board for more than thirty years, during which he has worked tirelessly as legal counsel to the agency.
The John Auchter Award was presented to Attorney Sheils by Goodwill board chair Les Lohnes on November 5th, 2012, at the annual meeting at the Goodwill Administration offices located at 570 Cottage Street in Springfield, MA. Attorney Sheils received an honorary plaque that he will proudly display in his office at Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin, P.C.
Steve Mundahl, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries, said that Attorney Sheils deserves to be recognized for service that goes above and beyond. “Jim has been with us through every contract negotiation and has never asked for anything in return. He has been invaluable to the Pioneer Valley Goodwill and its mission,” said Mundahl. Board chair Lohnes added, “Jim has a huge heart for the population we serve. He has given many, many hours and is truly dedicated to the cause.”