Shared Purpose and Promise

Stonehill benefactors and student scholars gathered together on Sunday, April 12, for a special luncheon held in the Pettit Atrium in the Shields Science Center. The afternoon celebrated the transformative impact of scholarships and the relationships that make the Stonehill experience possible.

Student speaker Jaelyn DeBoise ’26 was introduced by Professor of Marketing Lee McGinnis who spoke about her leadership, work ethic and character—qualities he has seen firsthand in the classroom and beyond. His remarks highlighted the meaningful faculty‑student connections that are central to a Stonehill education.

DeBoise, a marketing major, Spanish minor, two‑time captain of the Women’s Golf Team and first‑generation college student, shared her personal journey and the pivotal role scholarship support has played in her time at Stonehill. As a recipient of the Neil Ahern ’69 Memorial Scholarship, she reflected on how donor generosity allowed her to focus on academics, leadership and athletics. “Your support doesn’t just impact one student,” she said. “It impacts families, communities and future generations.”

DeBoise's remarks reflected the luncheon’s theme of Building Together, a message echoed by President John Denning, C.S.C. in his closing comments. Fr. John emphasized the impact of scholarships and their central role in Stonehill’s mission and strategic plan, Stonehill 2030: Building Together. He reminded guests that scholarships help students discover who they are called to be—leaders grounded in purpose, character and compassion.

"At Stonehill, building together is the way we live out our mission to educate the mind and the heart. It is seen in the commitment of our benefactors, the determination of our students and the daily dedication of our faculty and staff," Fr. John said. "Each of you here contributes to a stronger, more compassionate and more hopeful future for our community. "