Michelle Grout, Executive Director
Meet Michelle Grout, the driving force behind the Springfield Business Improvement District as our Executive Director. Born and raised right here in Springfield, Michelle is deeply rooted in our community. A proud graduate of Cathedral High School and Springfield Technical Community College, Michelle’s journey reflects her unwavering commitment to our city’s growth and prosperity.
Before joining the BID family, Michelle honed her skills and expertise during a successful 20 year career as a Real Estate Agent in Western Massachusetts. Her intimate knowledge of the local landscape, coupled with her passion for community development, uniquely positions her to lead our efforts in revitalizing and enhancing Springfield.
As Executive Director, Michelle is dedicated to leveraging her diverse background and experience to drive positive change and foster economic growth in our beloved city. With a collaborative spirit and a vision for a vibrant future, Michelle is committed to empowering businesses, engaging residents, and elevating Springfield to new heights.
Get to know Michelle Grout and discover how her leadership is shaping the future of Springfield with passion, dedication, and a hometown pride that runs deep.
Samantha Savoie, Marketing & Creative Services Director
Meet Samantha Savoie, the creative force behind the marketing endeavors at the Springfield Business Improvement District as our Marketing & Creative Services Director. As the Marketing and Creative Director, Samantha is dedicated to amplifying the vibrancy of Springfield. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to authenticity, Samantha crafts compelling narratives that resonate with residents and visitors alike, fostering a sense of pride and connection to our city.
While not a Springfield native, Samantha’s roots are deeply intertwined with the fabric of Western Massachusetts. Hailing not too far from Springfield, Samantha attended Westfield State University, where she cultivated her passion for marketing and creative services.
Having spent her entire life in the Western Mass area, Samantha has developed a profound love and appreciation for the region, proudly calling it home. With seven years of experience in marketing and creative services under her belt, Samantha brings a wealth of expertise and innovation to her role at the BID.
When she’s not busy crafting captivating campaigns or brainstorming innovative strategies, you can often find Samantha hanging out with her beloved dog, Allie. As a dog lover and avid supporter of downtown living, Samantha and Allie are regulars on the streets of Downtown Springfield, enjoying leisurely walks and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
With her passion for storytelling, penchant for creativity, and unwavering dedication to showcasing the best of Springfield, Samantha is committed to elevating our city’s profile and driving positive change. Get to know Samantha Savoie and discover how her vision and expertise are shaping the future of Springfield’s marketing landscape.
Angelle Lopez, Event & Program Coordinator
Meet Angelle Lopez, a driving force behind the scenes at the Springfield Business Improvement District. A proud Springfield native and recent 2024 graduate of Westfield State University’s Communication program, Angelle began her journey as an Operations and Marketing Intern at the BID. Her skills and passion for community engagement quickly stood out, propelling her into her current role as Event and Program Coordinator.
Fluent in both English and Spanish, and deeply connected to her Puerto Rican roots, Angelle brings a unique perspective to her work. Her bilingualism helps bridge cultural divides, ensuring that everyone—whether a longtime resident or a visitor——feels seen and heard in BID initiatives.
In her role, Angelle orchestrates a diverse range of events and programs aimed at revitalizing Springfield’s economy and culture. From celebrating the city’s rich heritage to coordinating events that support local entrepreneurs, her strategic approach and creative vision shine through in every endeavor.
Outside of her career, Angelle enjoys spending time with her dog, Bentley, and staying connected to her community. Her enthusiasm and dedication extend far beyond the office, as she’s committed to fostering both personal and professional growth in Springfield.
Get to know Angelle Lopez and discover how her innovative approach is shaping Springfield’s future, one event at a time.
Board Members
Chair James Hickson, Berkshire Bank
Vice Chair Keith Weppler, Blackened Realty LLC
Treasurer Paul Marcelina, Picknelly Family Limited Partnership
Clerk Jeffrey Fialky, Courthouse Park Associates
Evan Plotkin, Financial Plaza Trust
Sara Smith, Tower Square
Augustine Kim, MGM
Raipher Peligrino, Honore LLC
Brian Connors, City of Springfield
Kay Simpson, Springfield Museums