Benjamin J Ostiguy

Program Coordinator, Thrive Center @Holyoke Community College

Holyoke, MA, US

Develops and oversees the operations of a complex and dynamic Basic Needs Insecurity (BNI) resource center serving students experiencing food and housing insecurity, homelessness, lack of affordable health care, financial setbacks, and unreliable transportation. Coordinates procedures related to student intakes, data collection and reporting, distribution of food and supplies, and the receipt of donations. Maintains a sanitary and well-stocked pantry offering supplemental shelf-stable groceries, Grab-n-Go snacks, personal care items, and school supplies to eligible students. Coordinates and plans the activities of assigned staff; supervises work study students.5. Cultivates and maintains effective working relationships with community sponsors and partnering agencies, including the MA Department of Higher Education, the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, Westfield State University, the Gandara Center, the United Way, the Caring Health Center, Rachel’s Table, and the Holyoke Housing Authority. Communicates and collaborates with the greater campus community to identify and offer support to populations of students who are most at risk of not completing their educational goals due to BNI.7. Responsible for the THRIVE Center budget composed of multiple accounts, including State funds and gift accounts.8. Researches and pursues low- or no-cost means of meeting programmatic demands, including campus and community partnerships, food and materials drives, fundraisers, and grant writing. Co-chairs the President\'s Student Emergency Fund committee. Serves on the HCC CARE Team; facilitates trauma informed non-violent crisis intervention training to campus entities. Participates in division wide student services initiatives and programs.

University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Ph.D. (On hiatus)

University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Bachelor's Degree

University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Master's Degree