Tassels Turn, Hope Endures: Stonehill College Celebrates 75th Commencement

Exemplifying Joyful Service and Gospel Values

The citation conferring an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree upon Sister Andrea Lee, I.H.M., was read by Assistant Professor of Physics & Astronomy Francesca Fornasini. It recognized her commitment to educational and spiritual ministry, demonstrated through her contributions to various academic and religious institutions.

“As a member of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, you have faithfully advanced your community’s mission through evangelization, catechesis and teaching,” the citation read. 

Read the citation.

Demonstrating a Spirit of Determination

Associate Professor of Communication & Media Studies James Chichetto, C.S.C., read the citation for honorary degree recipient Matthew Brown ’16, who established the Matt Brown Foundation. It highlighted the ways he has empowered others through his philanthropy, public speaking, participation in marathons and more.

“Your legacy at Stonehill has left a lasting imprint on this campus, serving as a model of service and tenacity for students, faculty, staff alumni, parents and friends of the College alike,” the citation read.

Read the citation.

Empowering the Next Generation of Talented Professionals

Keynote speaker and honorary degree recipient Leo J. Meehan III ’75 was presented with a citation by Professor of Economics Hossein Kazemi. It showcased his success in business, as well as the ways he has used his platform as president and CEO of W.B. Mason to help advance aspiring leaders from Stonehill. 

“Your unique contributions have helped equip students with the skills and vision to thrive in today’s global economy,” the citation read.

Read the citation.

Dreaming Courageously 

In his address to the Class of 2026, Meehan emphasized the importance of choosing a dream and pursuing it fully.

“Build a real plan around it,” he said. “If you don’t have a dream, it’s perfectly fine. Move forward anyway. Take chances. Learn by doing. Because sometimes the dream only becomes visible once you are in motion.”

Read his remarks.

Embarking on a Shared Journey

Elizabeth (Linehan) Cotter, M.Ed. ’26, delivered the graduate student address. She reflected on how her master’s coursework fostered strong bonds among her peers, as the experience required each of them to practice patience, listen deeply and advocate for others fiercely. 

“Each of us came into this experience with our own stories, our own reasons and our own hopes,” she noted. “And somewhere along the way, those individual journeys became something shared.”

Read her remarks.

Remaining Present

Jason McGettrick ’26 offered remarks on behalf of undergraduate students. He encouraged all in attendance to live in the moment and enjoy life’s blessings as they come. 

“If we ground ourselves, take in the beauty of the present chapter and welcome the change when it is time to turn the page—like today—I’m confident we will live incredibly fulfilled lives,” he said.

Read his remarks.

Cultivating Meaningful Memories

Senior Class President Ian O’Connor ’26 and Vice President Olivia Connor ’26 presented the senior class gift, which will support the revitalization of the Brother Mike’s patio, a social setting that has allowed students to forge lifelong bonds.

“As a class, we are honored to contribute to a place that reflects so much of what made our Stonehill experience special—friendship, laughter and connection,” Connor said. 

Offering Opportunities, Connections and Fulfillment 

While welcoming the Class of 2026 to Stonehill’s Alumni Association, which includes over 31,500 members, Alumni Council President Bethany (Conway) Sosa ’13 reminded graduates to always hold on to the relationships they have built at Stonehill. 

“Being an active alumna has been deeply meaningful, offering opportunities, connections and a sense of fulfillment that I cherish,” she said. “Stonehill will always hold a special place in my heart. Each time I return, it feels like coming home. My hope is that you, too, will feel this sense of belonging—and that you’ll return often, especially for Reunion and Homecoming.”

Viewing Life Through a Wider Lens

Referencing remarks delivered by Pope Leo XIV during the 2025 Jubilee of the World of Education, Rev. John Denning, C.S.C., president of Stonehill College, reflected that education is like a telescope, enabling students to look beyond themselves. He encouraged graduates to always keep their telescope nearby.

“Let the lessons you have learned and the connections you have formed serve as the lens through which you can explore new horizons, navigate rocky terrain and set a course toward personal and professional fulfillment,” he said.

Read his remarks.

Praying for God’s Blessing

Commencement 2026 concluded with the Benediction, offered by Rev. Ryan Kerr, C.S.C. He asked God to surround each attendee with love.

“Strengthen their minds with memory so that they may remember all that they learned,” he said. “Focus their will, their passion, so that they may persevere in using all their gifts with generous joy.”