Flying Cloud Institute Appoints New Development Manager

GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — Flying Cloud Institute (FCI) has hired Stephanie DuPont as Development Manager.

In this role, Stephanie will develop and deliver on the overall fundraising strategy of the organization, creating a range of sustainable funding streams to support and expand the educational work of the organization.

"As a Berkshire County resident with a deep commitment to youth education and community outreach, I have long admired Flying Cloud's mission to merge science and art. With a unique blend of high-level operational management and a proven record of volunteer nonprofit leadership, I am prepared to help Flying Cloud diversify its funding and expand its reach," said DuPont.

DuPont's experience includes serving as a Member of the Board of Directors and Co-Chair of Youth Programs for the Lee Sportsmen's Association. In these roles, she acts as a lead fundraiser and strategist, overseeing a $20,000 youth programs operating budget and spearheading community outreach campaigns. She brings additional experience in managing back-office functions as an Office Manager in the private sector, as well as nearly two decades of experience as a Learning Coach and mentor.

"My experience as a Learning Coach gives me a firsthand understanding of the transformative power of the educational experiences Flying Cloud provides. I am looking forward to applying my skills to inspire curiosity and creativity in the next generation," said DuPont.

DuPont holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications, with a concentration in Communication & Technology from the University of Phoenix. She lives in the Berkshires with her husband, three children, and their dog, Buzz, where her family enjoys exploring and experiencing everything the area has to offer.

"We are excited to welcome Stephanie to the FCI team. She will help us raise needed funds for our programs to inspire young people and educators with innovative science and art experiences that spark creativity," exclaims Executive Director Maria Rundle. 

Greenagers Founder Will Conklin Honored as Business Person of the Year

By Breanna Steele12:17PM / Saturday, October 03, 2026

Casey Pease of state Sen. Paul Mark's office presents William Conklin, right, with a state Senate proclamation.

EGREMONT, Mass. — The Southern Berkshire Chamber of Commerce honored a local businessman and nonprofit leader on Sept. 24 at Catamount Mountain Resort.

 

William Conklin was this year's Business Person of the Year, recognizing his work as founder and executive director of Greenagers, a nonprofit that helps youth and children engage in work in environmental conservation, sustainable farming, natural resource management, and vocational skills building. 

 

Conklin and his family also run Sky View Farm and he is a managing partner of Konkapot Tree and Timber, a small-scale forest products business.

 

"If you spent any amount of time in Southern Berkshire, chances are you've heard his name, whether you realize the connection at the time or not," said board member Sierra King Watson, who emceed the event. "You might be having a conversation about farming, a new barn or structure that was built, students learning hands-on skills in sustainable agriculture, or a family that receives donated firewood to help keep their home warm through a cold Berkshire winter, or maybe you're simply talking about one of those community leaders who somehow manages to show up, support everyone, and seemingly be everywhere all at once.

 

"Well, one name has a way of continuously popping up, and that is Will Conklin."

 

Board President Mark Rulison said the region has more than 1,200 nonprofits. One in four jobs in the county is in the nonprofit sector, which ranks 27th nationally for nonprofit employment. He said the economic impact on the community is huge, thanking those who help.

 

For the event on Thursday, Conklin requested that as much of the food as possible was sourced locally. Most of it came from Greenagers, Sky View Farm, Indian Line Farm and Fancy Feast Supper Club, creative dinner series.