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Meet Mr. Alvin J McKenzie
Alvin J McKenzie
Alvin “Big Joe” McKenzie is the embodiment of the American dream. Born on April 8th, 1936, in Kingston, Jamaica, he immigrated to America at 39 in 1975 bringing with him the warmth of his island heritage and an unwavering commitment to community. With no job or marketable skills, "Big Joe" knew the only way to change his current circumstance was to prioritize his education in order to obtain gainful employment.
His Story...
Big Joe went on to first earn his GED and then his Associate’s Degree in Human Services from Springfield Technical Community College. However, Alvin didn’t stop there; he continued working hard to put himself through school, where he eventually earned his bachelor’s degree in from Springfield College. All while raising 8 children, each having gone to earn a college degree in various fields. Big Joe taught his children that not only can education change your life and offer a path to ultimate success, but it is also the best way to improve your local community.
... and the Legacy Continues...
Alvin devoted 25 of his 30 years in Springfield to Baystate Medical Center, working as a security guard, where he was known for his kindness and vigilance. His commitment to the well-being of others extended beyond his professional life; he was a source of inspiration and support for children in the Marlborough, Suffolk, Middlesex, Bristol, and Norfolk Street neighborhoods. He was affectionately known as 'BIG Daddy' and 'Mack' to those whose lives he affected in the community.
Following a long battle with cancer, Alvin “Big Joe” McKenzie passed away on January 5th, 2007. He may not be with us anymore, but his legacy lives on in the form of the Alvin Joseph McKenzie Scholarship Fund.
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