Celebrating Neighbors and Scholars

Neighbors, friends, alumni and benefactors gathered at the 2025 President’s Reception to honor a decade of impact through the Brockton Scholarship Program at Stonehill. Held on May 29 in the Pettit Atrium of the Shields Science Center, the event honored the lives transformed, dreams nurtured and the unwavering community commitment that has made this scholarship program at the College possible. The Class of 2029 will include six Brockton scholars, each supported by the generosity of those in attendance.

“Our neighbors in surrounding areas like Easton and Brockton are part of our village. These vibrant communities have collaborated with us in many meaningful ways since the College’s founding. I’m grateful to gather with you tonight to celebrate the sense of unity that fortifies us,” reflected President John Denning, C.S.C. [Read full remarks.]

Honoring a Trailblazer

The President’s Award of Excellence was presented to Ambassador Claire (McLaughlin) Cronin ’82, an accomplished attorney with her own practice, former State Representative of the Eleventh Plymouth District, and former U.S. Ambassador to Ireland under the Biden Administration. She rewrote history as the first woman to serve as Majority Leader of the Massachusetts House and Chair of the House Judiciary Committee.

"You have given of yourself unselfishly, and you do so with a spirit of collaboration and great affection for the College’s educational mission of Light and Hope," said Fr. Denning. [Read the full award citation.]

In accepting this award, Cronin, who grew up in Brockton, spoke about turning to her alma mater when she first ran for office, seeking interns to support her campaign. The students who answered that call became key components to her success and, later, her staff—members of her own village that stood alongside her every step of the way. Cronin noted, "One of the common ties that has stayed with me throughout my career is Stonehill College."