BOSTON — The National Association of Corporate Directors New England Chapter (NACDNE) has announced its 2026 “Director of the Year” honorees, recognizing outstanding leadership in corporate governance across public, private, and nonprofit organizations. The awards will be presented at NACDNE’s annual gala on April 30, 2026, at the Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel in Boston.
PTC Inc. was named Public Company Board of the Year, honoring the board of the global software leader known for enabling manufacturers and product companies to digitally transform how they design, manufacture, and service products worldwide.
Shawmut Design and Construction received Private Company Board of the Year honors. The $2.3 billion, 100% employee-owned construction management firm employs approximately 1,400 people across 15 offices nationwide and is widely recognized for its client-focused approach, safety culture, and consistent performance, with more than 80% of its business coming from repeat clients.
NACDNE also recognized three individuals with its top Director of the Year awards. Ellen M. Zane, former president and CEO of Tufts Medical Center, received the Lifetime Achievement Award for decades of leadership across healthcare, academic, finance, and life sciences boards. Diane Hessan, CEO of Salient Ventures and founder of C Space, was honored for Leadership in Corporate Governance. The Myra H. Kraft Award for Non-Profit Leadership was presented to Vanessa Calderon-Rosado, CEO of Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción (IBA), one of New England’s largest Latino-led nonprofit community development and affordable housing organizations.
“These honorees exemplify excellence in governance, leadership, and impact,” said NACDNE President Kevin McGovern. “Their commitment strengthens organizations and communities across New England and beyond.”
The annual gala will bring together business and civic leaders to celebrate the achievements of the 2026 honorees.
