FCI's Executive Director one of Berkshire Magazine's "Berkshire 25"

Executive Director Maria Rundle

This is our seventh year of honoring 25 outstanding individuals—the human core of our beloved Berkshires—and it is one to be remembered. This year has produced community members who are more dedicated, more creative, and more influential than we have come to expect: Teachers not giving up on our kids. Protectors of our natural environment. Advocates for food and healthcare equity. Young activists with the vision and resolve to effect social change. Artists whose creative expressions feed our soul. Politicians and businessmen and women who have our back. With the help of a panel of advisors, we proudly present this year’s amazing Berkshire 25.

Maria Rundle is executive director of Flying Cloud Institute in Great Barrington, which is dedicated to science and arts education. Described as a strong leader who takes action, Maria finds herself continually adapting so that she can serve as many students as possible. She is where her daughter, not too long ago, had “the best day ever.” Maria is a Richmond native, and was development director at Gould Farm in Monterey for five years, working to raise awareness about mental illness. Says one parent: “Maria works every day to bring exciting and life-changing educational experiences to the Berkshires.” - From Berkshire Magazine