Tom Bernard is a versatile, inclusive, and highly effective nonprofit, education, and municipal leader with experience as an executive, fundraiser, communicator, and collaborative partner. He currently serves as Principal of Tom Bernard Consulting, where he leverages his experience at building highly effective teams and boards, developing and executing mission-focused strategy, delivering financial and operational results, and stewarding relationships to help organizations build the future they envision for themselves and the people they serve.

Tom is the former President and CEO of Berkshire United Way. In this leadership role he also served as co-chair of the Council of Massachusetts United Ways (COMUW), as a member of the United Way Worldwide Council of States, and as a board member with Mass211. Tom previously served as mayor of the City of North Adams, Massachusetts, and as chair of the school committee of the North Adams Public Schools. Earlier in his career Tom served as director of special projects at Smith College; in various administrative roles at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA); and as a development officer at the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA).

Tom’s approach combines the best elements of the transformational and participatory modes of leadership. His work is rooted in understanding the mission and values of an organization over the long term; working with board and staff members to imagine and define a shared vision for the future; identifying benchmarks and milestones for achieving aspirations; developing, implementing, and monitoring a change management plan. Within this framework Tom works intentionally with teams to establish shared goals for current and upcoming work; ensures alignment around shared expectations; and empowers colleagues to use their skills, talent, and creativity to meet their objectives.

The son of public school teachers, Tom learned by example about service to the community and the importance of civic engagement and giving back. Tom was appointed by Governor Maura Healey as a Trustee of MCLA. He also currently serves as a member and chair of the Berkshire Arts and Technology (BART) Charter Public School Board of Trustees and as a member of the Massachusetts Cultural Council’s Governing Council. Tom is a graduate of Williams College and Westfield State University as well as of the Berkshire Leadership Program. He was awarded an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree from MCLA in 2022.

LinkedIn: Tom Bernard