Thank you for joining us for this year’s President’s Reception. It is wonderful to come together and celebrate our City of Brockton Scholarship program this evening.
I’d also like to take a moment to recognize the residents of Easton who are here with us. As you are all likely aware, the town is in the midst of its tricentennial celebration. Stonehill is grateful to be part of Shovel Town’s legacy.
In his encyclical letter Laudato si’, Pope Francis said, “We need to strengthen the conviction that we are one single human family.” This meaningful message resonates with all of us here at Stonehill College. We wholeheartedly believe that it takes a village to educate hearts and minds. Thankfully, 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.
This year’s reception is particularly special, as 2025 marks 10 years since the City of Brockton Scholarship was first established. Though it’s hard to believe how fast time has gone by, it’s been remarkable to witness the profound impact of this program. By providing financial assistance to Brockton residents who seek a Stonehill degree, you have empowered countless students to thrive in the classroom, in competition and in the community.
I look forward to seeing how this scholarship program will continue to support students in achieving their personal and professional goals. In the months ahead, we will welcome the Class of 2029 to Stonehill. This cohort will include six Brockton scholars. Your generosity will surely prove transformative to each of them as they become part of our beloved campus. And it is my sincere hope that they, along with all our scholars, will pay it forward throughout their time here and after they graduate.
Tonight, we also honor an extraordinary member of our alumni community with deep ties to the City of Champions. I invite Ambassador Claire Cronin ’82 to join me on stage to receive the President’s Award for Excellence.