Worcester Business Journal

wbjournal.com | December 1, 2025 | Worcester Business Journal 29 BY JENNIFER HERNANDEZ Special to WBJ W hen I first became a student at my local community college, I was a working single mother trying to build a better life for my daughter. I had tried other colleges before, but nothing ever seemed to click. Between working full time and raising an elemen- tary school–aged child, I needed a college offering flexibility, understanding, and structure. Quinsigamond Community College gave me exactly that: a clear roadmap to success and a support system. Classes were available online and evenings, making higher education finally acces- sible to me. But beyond that, this college gave me something far more valuable than convenience. It gave me confidence. One experience stands out clearly in my mind: Public Speaking 101. e thought of standing in front of a group terrified me. I was deathly afraid of public speaking, so much so I dropped the class twice. It felt like something I just wasn't cut out for. I honestly didn't think I could do it. But one of my professors noticed a potential I couldn't yet see in myself and suggested I take the course online, where I could learn at my own pace and ease my way into the material. at one small adjust- ment changed everything. Taking the class in that format allowed me to overcome my fear and actually discover I liked public speaking. I passed the course, and more importantly, I found my voice. at experience was life-changing. Today, public speaking is one of my greatest strengths. As the found- er of GEM Marketing Solutions, I regularly deliver keynote speeches, lead workshops, and present to organizations and nonprofits across Massachusetts. Every time I step up to a microphone, I think back to that moment when I was the scared student who once believed she couldn't speak publicly, and the professors who showed her she could. at's the power of community college. It's not just about earning a degree; it's about discovering your potential through a community that truly cares. Now, as a Quinsigamond Community College Foundation board member, I'm honored to give back to the place that gave me my start. I want to help ensure that future students, especially parents, working adults, and those who may doubt themselves, have the same opportu- nities to grow and thrive. Community colleges like QCC are the quiet engines of transforma- tion in our region. ey create pathways for students who need second chances, flexibility, and support. ey cultivate not just graduates, but leaders: people who go on to build businesses, strengthen communi- ties, and mentor others. My journey from a fearful student to a confident entrepreneur began at a community college. It's where I learned education is not one-size- fits-all, and the right support can unlock potential you didn't even know you had. And to every student who's ever felt afraid to take that first step, I can tell you this: Your path might not look traditional, but with the right support, you can go further than you ever imagined. Jennifer Hernandez is CEO of GEM Marketing Solutions in Worcester. How community college helped me find my voice and my purpose Passing the baton at WBJ BY PETER STANTON WBJ Publisher A er 46 years in the publishing industry in Central MA, I will retire at the end of January. It has been my honor to lead one of the few remaining strong, independent journalism organizations, where the work we do every day not only delivers value, but makes a positive difference in the lives of our readers and the community at large. I was one of those local college grads (Holy Cross) back in 1979 who didn't head off to Boston or New York, but returned to Worcester to take a job in sales for the upstart Worcester Magazine. Some of you might remember in 1982 when the company launched our first regional business publication: Business Worcester, which eight years later under new ownership was rebranded as Worcester Business Journal. Over the years, our company expanded to new markets, launching the Hartford Business Journal and acquiring Mainebiz. Today New England Business Media employs 46 people across three offices, with corporate headquarters here in Worcester. Over the years I found the job so interesting and challenging that I never le. Jennifer Hernandez W We have been able not just to survive, but thrive, because of the talent and deep commitment of our team, many of whom, like me, have been with WBJ for decades. Longtime associate publisher Mark Murray, who recently stepped down after 41 years, made a significant contribution to our success, as did Art Director Mitchell Hayes (14 years) Editor Brad Kane (15 years) Sr. Account Exec & Custom Director Chris Juetten (18 years) Production Manager Kira Beaudoin (25 years), and General Manager Kris Prosser (30 years). Along with Timothy Doyle, Eric Casey, Mica Kanner-Mascolo, Heide Martin, Stephanie Meagher, Sara Ward, Leah Allen, Rae Rogers, Patty Harris, and Nicole Dunn, they are all part of a deep bench that will continue to make WBJ a widely respected and award-winning publication. As part of the leadership transition, Tom Curtin, my business partner since 2020, will take over as CEO and sole owner of the company. Come February, he will step in as publisher of WBJ. Tom is a longtime publishing exec in the regional B2B niche and runs our Hartford operation, which has undergone an exciting rebirth under his leadership. He is eager to make connections and learn more about the Central MA market and – working in tandem with Kris, Brad, and the WBJ team – will take the baton for the next leg of the race, assuring WBJ's sustained success. He can be reached at TCurtin@wbjournal. com. To survive in the media business you need to be agile and innovative, but have high standards and deliver real value. I've put my professional life's work into helping to build a company to deliver those results, but we don't survive without our readers, our advertising partners, and our extensive connections in the community. Your support for WBJ is deeply appreciated, and as publisher emeritus, I look forward to seeing us continue to play our unique role in delivering value to you, while making a positive difference in this city and region I care so much about. While I look forward to the next chapter, I don't plan to put up the "Gone Fishing" sign. I'll continue to stay active with the nonprofit boards I serve on and stay plugged into the community, while remaining WBJ's biggest fan and cheerleader! – Best, Peter W

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