October 14, 2025 – Springfield, Massachusetts – The Hampden District Attorney’s Office officially launched HERizon on Tuesday, Oct. 7, a new leadership and empowerment program for young women across Hampden County. The initiative aims to equip participants with tools, confidence, and community to navigate life’s challenges and opportunities with purpose.

The program’s first session, held Tuesday evening at the District Attorney’s Office, drew a room of 40 high school students from communities across the county. The evening began with an introduction and Q&A session with District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni, who shared insight into the office’s work and his excitement to support this new effort.

At one point, laughter filled the room when a student playfully asked the DA what took him so long to start a girls’ program. Smiling, Gulluni responded that he was “thrilled to finally get started,” crediting the dedicated women on his team who brought his idea to life.

“This program reflects the power of community and mentorship,” said Gulluni. “HERizon was designed by women in this office who care deeply about helping young women see their strength, understand their worth, and lead with confidence. Seeing this level of energy and engagement on day one makes me incredibly proud.”

Following the DA’s remarks, Community Safety and Outreach Specialist Halie Matthew and Deputy Director of Community Safety and Outreach Gina Anselmo guided an open discussion with the participants, emphasizing that HERizon is meant to be by the girls, for the girls.

Hands immediately went up as participants shared topics they hope to explore throughout the program, including:

• Healthy relationships and boundaries
• Finding their voice and self-discovery
• Mental health and emotional wellness
• Physical health, cycles, and body awareness
• Career readiness and life skills
• Personal safety and support

A central theme quickly emerged: the girls want safe, judgment-free spaces to learn, ask questions, and connect with one another. They expressed a strong desire for practical knowledge — everything from emotional boundaries to car maintenance — and for empowerment to come before challenges arise, not after.

Community and connection were recurring touchpoints, with many students voicing that they want HERizon to be a space for uplifting one another rather than competing.

In a show of enthusiasm, when Anselmo and Matthew asked whether meetings should be monthly, every three weeks, or biweekly, nearly every hand in the room shot up for biweekly gatherings.

HERizon will continue meeting twice a month at the Hampden District Attorney’s Office, with future sessions featuring guest speakers, workshops, and activities shaped by the participants themselves.