Celebrating Community and Partnership

On May 28, Stonehill College welcomed community partners, neighbors and supporters to the 2026 President’s Reception, an evening dedicated to celebrating the transformative impact of the City of Brockton Scholarship and the enduring partnership between the College and its neighboring communities. 

Brockton Scholar Brianna St. Hilaire ’26 delivered a reflection on her Stonehill journey, recent graduation and plans to attend medical school. "This scholarship gave me the opportunity to pursue my education, build meaningful relationships with mentors and become the person I am today," she noted. 

In his remarks, President John Denning, C.S.C., underscored the significance of the Brockton Scholarship as well as the partnership between Stonehill and its neighboring communities. He also highlighted recent institutional momentum, including the launch of the Built to Rise campaign and the College's new nursing initiative designed to serve the region.

"Stonehill will help address critical workforce needs and advance the field by producing skilled nursing leaders. It is our honor and privilege to serve the community through the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program," Fr. Denning said. 

A central moment of the evening was the presentation of the President’s Award for Excellence to Robert Haffey, president and CEO of Signature Healthcare. Haffey was recognized for his extraordinary leadership, including guiding Brockton Hospital through the COVID-19 pandemic and a 2023 fire while ensuring the continued care and safety of patients and staff. 

"When its doors reopened in 2024, Brockton Hospital emerged even more deeply rooted in its commitment to the people of Brockton and southeastern Massachusetts. That ingenuity reflects your career, spent in constant pursuit of better—better systems, better outcomes and a better experience for every person who needs and deserves exceptional care," Fr. John read from the award citation. [Read full award citation.] 

The evening served as a reminder of what is possible when education, partnership and leadership come together to create opportunity and strengthen communities.