Gayle Vonasek
2024 Hall of Fame Inductee

Gayle Vonasek is a dedicated educator and youth development champion. Gayle started her career as a teacher in Fitchburg and Newton Schools, and later transitioned to a staff developer role in Newton and onto a literacy specialist in Weston, before completing her career as a principal in Wellesley. Gayle’s 36 years of educating fuel her passion for the mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest.

 

Gayle Vonasek's dedication to the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest stemmed from a powerful desire to amplify the organization's mission and its impact on young lives.  Her involvement began through her connection to the Annual Gala & Auction, where she worked alongside the Club’s staff, her husband Ken, and her “Gala Girlfriends,” Cathy Carchidi and Linda Rath, to bring the Club’s mission to life.

 

Gayle’s passion for the Club and its’ impact went far beyond Gala. Gayle worked with the Framingham Clubhouse to bring two passion projects to life – a connection to a Framingham Resident who was embarking on a bicycle adventure through Mexico and Central America and a visit from renowned illustrator, Giles Laroche, who hosted a hands-on three-dimensional paper art workshop for Club youth. Gayle also worked closely with Youth of the Year candidates to help prepare them for the state-wide competition and interviews. These activities are a prime example of Gayle’s dedication to facilitating learning outside of the traditional classroom. 

 

In 2019, Gayle played a pivotal role in the 75th Anniversary Celebration of the Club. Working with Linda Rath, they designed interactive stations to showcase a variety of Club programs. During the event, youth members confidently explained the programs’ significance to guests and watching this ignited a sense of pride in Gayle.

 

Throughout her involvement, Gayle has been consistently moved by the stories of Club members and alumni. The profound impact of staff and the Club’s mission on young lives is a constant source of inspiration and reaffirms the importance of the organization’s role in shaping MetroWest’s youth.

 

The Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest, and especially the Resource Development Office, is grateful for all that Gayle has done, and continues to do, for the organization and we are honored to induct Gayle into the Hall of Fame.