The Downtown Northampton Association has named CopyCat Ink owner Amanda Shafii its latest board president.
Photo credit: The Downtown Northampton Association
NORTHAMPTON — The Downtown Northampton Association has announced the appointment of Amanda Shafii as its new board president.
“With a passion for community and a proven track record in business, Amanda Shafii is poised to lead the DNA in fostering collaboration and growth across Northampton’s vibrant downtown,” said the Downtown Northampton Association in its statement announcing the decision.
Shafii has been appointed following a decade as business owner for CopyCat Ink, a local printing and design business that is celebrating 40 years of being a family-owned business in the area this year, where she proved to be a dedicated business owner and community advocate. She brings a wealth of experience and passion for the city’s downtown into the new role.
“Having a small business helped me learn how important small business and community are in order to have a vibrant thriving downtown with local shopping, awesome restaurants, cafes and making sure we have a healthy economy,” Shafii said.
CopyCat Ink has been led by Shafii for the last decade where she has established herself as an active contributor to the local business community, demonstrating a strong commitment to economic growth and community engagement. In addition to her new leadership role as board president, she also serves on the Board of Directors for the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce.
Through CopyCat, Shafii has conducted business to business printing and design in the community which has led to her getting to know and network with many of the city’s businesses.
“It’s led me to want to dive deeper into the community and get more involved,” Shafii added.
Shafii is already on the Board of Directors for the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce and has done volunteer work such as being a mentor for businesses and is happy to get involved where she can in Northampton.
“When I was invited to join the board for the Downtown Northampton Association, it was a really big honor and to be appointed for the president position is just amazing and I’m so excited,” Shafii added. “I know it comes with a lot of responsibility, but I think that there’s so much opportunity as well.”
Shafii is deeply passionate about entrepreneurship and has served as a mentor for E-for-All, helping aspiring business owners navigate their journeys.
“In the short time I’ve known Amanda, she has proven to be a strong, fair and visionary leader. She is laser-focused on making Northampton thrive for everyone through the DNA, always considering the needs of business owners, nurturing community relationships and dreaming big with me about our events,” said Andrea Monson, executive director of the Downtown Northampton Association. “I feel incredibly supported by Amanda and at the same time, she feels like a longtime friend. During [National] Women’s Month, it brings me great joy to have Amanda as our new president and Karen Carswell as our new treasurer. With this powerhouse team of women, there’s no telling what we can accomplish together.”
As board president, Shafii will work closely with local businesses, city officials and community organizations to continue fostering a vibrant, welcoming and economically thriving downtown ecosystem. Her leadership will guide the DNA’s initiatives, from events to beautification projects to advocacy efforts that support local businesses.
Shafii said the work done by the DNA is a showcase of how special the community of Northampton is in terms of its support for local and small businesses, and she hopes to continue to reflect those community values.
“It’s a really special community. We want to continue our mission of beautifying downtown making sure that we still do the planters every year, cleaning up anything that needs clean up, and keeping the city beautiful. I plan to learn as much as I can so that I can do the best that I possibly can,” Shafii said. “Something that is also a matter close to heart is continuing to spread the word and help the mission to make sure people understand how much of an impact it makes when you spend your dollars locally. When you make a purchase, you’re essentially voting for that business to succeed and continue with its offerings and its mission.”
The DNA is responsible for organizing some of Northampton’s most beloved events, including the Taste of Northampton, Sidewalk Sales and Chalk Art Festival. Additionally, the organization hosts monthly Downtown Business Owner Forums, providing a space for local entrepreneurs to connect, share ideas and discuss key issues impacting the community.
The Downtown Northampton Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and enhancing downtown Northampton as a destination for shopping, dining, arts and culture. Through partnerships, events and advocacy, the DNA supports a thriving local economy and an engaged community.
For more information about the Downtown Northampton Association, visit nohodna.org.
“I am honored to take on this role and to work alongside such a dedicated group of individuals committed to Northampton’s success,” said Shafii. “Downtown Northampton is a special place, and I look forward to collaborating with our community to ensure it remains a dynamic and inclusive hub for residents, visitors and businesses alike.”
