The Lawrence History Center Board of Directors proudly present
“Auntie” Joan Kulash
Recipient of the
2025 Eartha Dengler History Award
All Roads Lead to Joan
For decades, Joan Kulash has been a champion of social justice, tirelessly working to strengthen communities and amplify their voices in Lawrence, Massachusetts and the local area. Joan’s journey has spanned environmental justice advocacy, teaching students with learning differences, and decades in corporate leadership roles. Seeking deeper purpose, what started as a “temporary” role turned into twenty years of dedication—earning her the beloved title “Auntie Joan” from the communities she has uplifted.
As the driving force behind Jericho Road, now Community InRoads, Joan has fostered meaningful change, inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s call to confront the stark contrasts of poverty and wealth. By empowering nonprofits, she has strengthened the individuals and families they serve, creating lasting impact. Under her leadership, the work expanded beyond Lawrence to Haverhill, ensuring even more communities have access to vital resources. Joan also launched the Cultural Inclusion Program cultivating a new generation of diverse, community-driven leaders who now shape nonprofit boards with their skills, lived experience, and passion.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:
- The event will be held on Thursday, June 12, 2025 at Central Catholic High School, 300 Hampshire Street, Lawrence, MA.
- Dress is business casual.
- Doors will open at 5:30 PM.
- Arrival and Social Hour:
- Cash bar (beer and wine), hors d'oeuvres, music.
- Arrival and Social Hour:
- Buffet dinner
- The Award Ceremony
- The evening will conclude by 8:30 PM.
We hope you will be able to join us!