Most Dedicated. Most Creative. Most Influencial.
Persistence describes this year’ s Berkshire 25. The individuals we honor here have made the Berkshires better by staying the course and putting in the work, often overcoming many obstacles. Their chosen paths bring them not just to our attention, but more importantly into the lives of those who need them most. The group includes business leaders, educators, medical professionals, musicians, writers, environmentalists, cultural leaders, military members, builders, preservers of history, and advocates for social change. In a world of short attention spans and dwindling human interaction, we honor the commitment to community of this year’ s Berkshire 25, now in its 13th year.
— B y L a u r a M a r s
Louis J. Allegrone, rooted in construction from his father and grandfather since 1921 and founder of the company it is today, is committed to transforming the built economy and vitality of Berkshire County. Allegrone integrates modern housing into Pittsfield’ s core while preserving cultural landmarks like the Mahaiwe and Jacob’ s Pillow Doris Duke Theatre. Their work also extends nationally, completing a majestic restoration at the base of the Statue of Liberty. Lou’ s countless hours and dedication to local sports, children, coaching, volunteering, and philanthropy all shine through his 16 grandchildren. Together with his wife Susan, five children, and extended family of 80 influential employees, he remains committed to developing community spaces in the Berkshires with preservation at its core.
Karen Allen,
Berkshire’ s own award-winning actress, has appeared in over 50 films. Since moving full-time to the Berkshires in 2003, she divides her time between performing, directing, and running Karen Allen Fiber Arts. Dedicated to local arts initiatives, Karen serves on the Triplex Cinema Advisory Board and has spent 17 years on the Berkshire International Film Festival board.“ Karen became a foundation stone of BIFF,” says BIFF Founder Kelley Vickery, a Berkshire 25 alumnus.“ There are movie stars, and then there are the rare few who pair a remarkable career with a deeply rooted sense of place and community. Karen is one of those rare few.”
58 // BERKSHIRE MAGAZINE Fall 2026