MCLA Physics Department to Host U.S. Department of Energy Physicist

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NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) Physics Department will welcome Dr. Brian Beckford, a nuclear and particle physicist with the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of High Energy Physics, for a free public lecture on Thursday, Oct. 9, at 5 p.m. in the Feigenbaum Center for Science and Innovation, Room 121. 
 
This talk is funded by the American Institute of Physics Foundation's TEAM-UP Together EXCEL grant. 
 
In his talk, "The Road Less Traveled and My Path in Physics," Beckford will share both his research and his personal journey in science, from his immigrant childhood in Miami to conducting experiments in Japan. The presentation will offer audiences a unique blend of scientific insight and personal narrative, exploring the challenges and opportunities that have defined his career, stated a press release. 
 
Beckford's research focuses on photoproduction and rare decay experiments, conducted at facilities in Japan, that contribute to our understanding of fundamental particles and forces. Beyond his scientific contributions, Dr. Beckford is a passionate advocate for diversity in STEM fields and has dedicated significant effort to broadening participation in physics for students from underrepresented groups.  
 
"This is a wonderful opportunity for our students and the broader community to hear from a leading physicist who exemplifies both scientific excellence and a commitment to making physics more accessible," said MCLA Professor and Physics Department Chair Dr. Kebra Ward. 
 
The lecture is designed to appeal to a wide audience, from physics students and STEM majors to anyone interested in science careers, diversity in academia, or the human stories behind scientific discovery. The event is free and open to the public, and community members, students, and faculty from all disciplines are encouraged to attend. 

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North Adams Housing Authority Director Steps Down

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NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Jennifer Hohn, the longtime executive director of the North Adams Housing Authority (NAHA), has stepped down after 24 years with the agency.

The Berkshire Eagle reported that Hohn resigned from her position on Thursday. The NAHA Board of Commissioners is currently developing a transition plan.

Her resignation follows rising tension between Hohn and the tenants association. Residents—particularly at the Spring and Ashland Park apartments—have raised specific concerns regarding building security, drug activity, and trespassers.

This summer, Tenants Association President Corey Fortin posted a video on social media demonstrating that door alarms in some of the buildings were not functioning.

Shortly after the video was posted, the tenants association's office was locked. Members alleged Hohn locked the space in retaliation, while Hohn maintained it was a matter of tenant safety. Hohn also stated that NAHA does not officially recognize the association because it has yet to go through official channels for certification—a claim the tenants association disputes.

The dispute culminated in plans for a formal grievance hearing between Hohn and the association. Both sides agreed to hold a meeting on Oct. 3, but the hearing had not yet been scheduled at the time of her resignation.
During her tenure as director, Hohn oversaw significant changes at NAHA, including expansion and the dissolution of Housing Opportunities Incorporated, a program founded over 30 years ago to assist first-time homebuyers. Most recently, she led efforts to transition NAHA properties from traditional public housing models to the Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program. She also directed the rebuilding of a Greylock Valley Apartments building after it was severely damaged by a fire.

The NAHA Board of Commissioners meets monthly, typically on Mondays.

 

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