Goodwill of the Berkshires Names New President and CEO

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Goodwill of the Berkshires and Southern Vermont's board of directors approved a management transition plan whereby David Twiggs has succeeded Frank Engels as the next president and CEO of the organization.

Twiggs, a Lenox resident, had most recently served as Goodwill's chief operating officer. He joined the organization in 2012 and has served in other senior management roles at Goodwill, including director of logistics.

"David Twiggs brings a wide range of experience from both the operations, retail, and social service sectors," said President of the Board of Directors Heidi Higgins. "His commitment to our community and personal approach to those needing a hand up are in keeping with Goodwill's philosophy and vision as a community focused organization."

Twiggs said he is honored to take the position.



"Goodwill is a dynamic, well-run organization with terrific employees," he said. "Frank Engels, the board of directors, and the entire staff did an amazing job at Goodwill during his six-year tenure. I look forward to building on the solid foundation they have established while continuing to focus on the needs of the local community."

Before joining Goodwill, Twiggs served as director of operations at Macy's. Prior to that he served on Target's executive retail team and as district manager for Perry Ellis stores. In addition to his career in the retail industry, Twiggs worked with youth in special education programs for more than a decade.

Twiggs also volunteers his time and talents to the community. He is currently serving on the Mass Alliance of Commissions on Disability, the Pittsfield Commission on Disabilities (including as community access monitor), an ombudsman for the executive office of Elder Services of Berkshire County and as a volunteer at the Berkshire Immigrant Center.


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Pittsfield Police Chief Retiring in January

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Police Chief Thomas Dawley will retire next month after 24 years with the Pittsfield Police Department, and the mayor will appoint his successor. 

Dawley's last day will be on Jan. 9, and he told iBerkshires that it was "just time." He began his law enforcement career in 1995 at the Berkshire County House of Corrections and was appointed police chief in June 2024

"Reasons for leaving are cumulative. I have been in law enforcement for almost 30 years. There is no particular reason for my retirement, I just feel that it is time," he wrote in an email. 

"I love the profession and love this department. The duties, responsibilities and obligations as a Chief are very demanding. It is a lifestyle, not a job. It is a 24/7–365 days a year responsibility." 

According to The Berkshire Eagle, Dawley told Mayor Peter Marchetti of his intention to retire back in April but had kept the decision quiet. Marchetti is expected to choose his successor in the next couple of weeks. 

Dawley, 52, was "honored and humbled" when he was chosen two years ago to succeed Michael Wynn, he said, and he misses being an officer out in the community, as the role of chief is more administrative by nature. He described the officers and civilian staff at the department as "the best of the best" and is proud of the "second to none" dedication, professionalism, and commitment they bring to work every day. 

"Policing is different than it was 10-20 years ago and the profession is being tested daily," he noted. 

"I want a new challenge and preferably something that does not involve law enforcement, but I am definitely not ruling it out!" 

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