Mitch Kuzdzal

Since 1998, when Mitch Kuzdzal retired as principal of Chicopee Comprehensive High School, he began volunteering for Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts. Since that time Mitch has taught more than 1,200 students about profit and loss, sole proprietorships, partnerships, economics, entrepreneurship, and the community. Mitch does more than present JA programs; he gets the students involved in learning. Last year when we had difficulty getting volunteers at an elementary School in Chicopee, Mitch volunteered to put both classes together and teach JA to 48 students!

Mitch teaches JA because, “As the business world got more complex, I felt I had something to offer students to encourage them to become competitive in the world. Competition is extremely important. I am able to introduce new business concepts to the students and it’s my nature to be with people and offer encouragement, educational terminology and discuss business opportunities with young people.” Mitch’s support of JA doesn’t end in the classroom. At every JA event, Mitch and his wife Jane can be found lending a helping hand. In the blazing heat of July this summer, 82-year old Mitch, his wife, Jane and their grandson were whole sitters for JA’s Annual Golf Tournament. They can be found handing out prizes at bowling or stuffing envelopes for a bulk mailing.

Mitch is also a tutor through the Valley Opportunity Council literacy program and has served on the Board of the Chicopee Water Commission since 1990.