Roger Valcourt Outstanding Citizen Award Dinner

Anthony R. Sapienza is a retired CEO and longtime leader in the men’s apparel industry, with a distinguished career spanning over four decades. He most recently served as President and CEO of JA Apparel Corp, where he guided the Joseph Abboud brand through a period of major growth, culminating in its $95 million acquisition by The Men’s Wearhouse in 2013. Prior to that, he led Joseph Abboud Manufacturing Corp. in New Bedford, overseeing large-scale production and sourcing operations for premium tailored menswear.

Throughout his career, Tony held senior manufacturing roles with leading companies such as Southwick/Grieco Bros., GFT USA Corp, and Joseph J. Pietrafesa Corp, managing operations for iconic labels including Brooks Brothers, Calvin Klein, Giorgio Armani, and Polo.

In parallel to his corporate leadership, Tony has demonstrated a deep commitment to public service and regional economic development. He currently serves as President of the Board for the New Bedford Economic Development Council and has held leadership roles on numerous nonprofit and educational boards, including the New Bedford Whaling Museum, Bristol Community College Foundation, and the New Bedford Light.

A passionate advocate for workforce development, Tony chaired both the Greater New Bedford Workforce Investment Board and the Mass Jobs Council. His contributions have been recognized with multiple awards, including the SouthCoast Chamber’s Community Leadership Award and the SouthCoast Media Group’s Businessperson of the Year.

Tony holds a B.A. in Sociology from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master of Urban Affairs from Boston University. He is also a veteran of the U.S. Army Reserves and an active community volunteer who enjoys golf, skiing, sailing, and reading.