Award for Excellence in Teaching by Adjunct Faculty Presented to Brian J. McKenna

The Award for Excellence in Teaching by Adjunct Faculty is given to a part-time faculty member to acknowledge the invaluable dedication and expertise that adjunct faculty bring to our classrooms and to recognize the impact they have on our students' lives. Stonehill College is proud to bestow the Fall 2025 Award for Excellence in Teaching by Adjunct Faculty on Professor Brian J. McKenna.

Brian brings an extraordinary 45 years of healthcare management experience into the classroom, transforming academic learning into a dynamic, real-world experience. His teaching goes far beyond lectures—he shares current challenges facing the healthcare industry and invites students to analyze, question, and propose solutions. This interactive approach not only deepens understanding but also cultivates confidence and critical thinking, essential qualities for future leaders in healthcare.

In his courses, Brian introduces students to the essential “tools of the trade” that define professional practice: organizational charts, budget statements, performance improvement plans, annual appraisal tools, strategic and business plans, mission and vision statements, SWOT analyses, market and competitor assessments, and job descriptions. Students learn not only how to use these tools but also how to apply them in practical scenarios. He complements this technical foundation with professional skills training—presentation delivery, interview preparation, and resume development—ensuring graduates are ready to excel in competitive environments.

Brian’s dedication extends far beyond the classroom. He serves as a trusted mentor, generously offering resume reviews, career advice, and personal guidance. Despite being an adjunct professor, he has been a pillar of Stonehill’s Department of Healthcare Management for many years. He represents the program at admissions open houses, helps connect students with internships, and collaborates on curriculum updates to keep the major aligned with industry trends. His commitment to student success and program excellence exemplifies the highest standards of teaching and service.

Brian’s philosophy of education is rooted in four guiding principles: Be a Doer, not an Observer—engage actively and solve problems; Be Passionate, not Passive—lead with conviction and energy; Master Critical Thinking—develop the ability to analyze and innovate; and Be a Lifelong Student of Healthcare—embrace continuous learning as the key to growth and relevance. These values inspire students to lead with purpose and resilience in a complex and evolving field.

And so, with deep pride, we confer the Fall 2025 Award for Excellence in Teaching by Adjunct Faculty to you, Professor Brian McKenna, for your tireless service, consistent example, and exemplary contributions to Stonehill College.

Given this 3rd day of December,
Two Thousand Twenty-Five

(Rev.) John Denning, C.S.C., President    

Peter Ubertaccio, Vice President for Academic Affairs