Martignettis make transformative gift to BC

Alumni couple’s latest commitment is buoyed by their appreciation for University leadership.

Boston College alumni Beth V. ’76 and Trustee Carmine A. Martignetti ’76 have made a transformative commitment to the University. The gift, which comes as the couple celebrates 50 years since their BC graduation, will provide unrestricted support to Boston College, allowing the University and its leadership to address its most urgent needs.

In grateful recognition of this gift, Boston College will name the residence hall located at 90 Thomas More Drive Martignetti Hall. Located on Lower Campus just steps from the Corcoran Commons, the current “Ninety” Hall houses 380 students—mainly sophomores—in 60 suites. 

The Martignettis—who first met at the Eagle’s Nest while they were students—are longtime BC benefactors, having supported a variety of areas and initiatives over nearly five decades, including financial aid, athletics, the Connell School of Nursing, and Pops on the Heights. They are proud of the ways in which BC has grown, but also how it has stayed the same.

“It’s about excellence in so many things—the quality of the students is better than ever. The school is so much more diverse, including geographically. But really, above all else, it has remained true to its Jesuit values and the idea of formation, which continues to contribute so meaningfully to the BC experience,” Carmine Martignetti says of what motivated the family to give back.

“We have so much respect for Fr. [William P.] Leahy and all that he has done for Boston College, which is now among the best Universities in the country thanks to his leadership,” adds Beth Martignetti. “Our appreciation doesn’t end there—we’re so delighted for the transition to Fr. Jack Butler and the continuity that he will bring. It means a lot to us—Boston College is worthy of this kind of giving.” 

Since they graduated, Beth and Carmine have demonstrated the Jesuit exhortation to be ‘men and women for others,’ giving back extensively to their community and in particular to Boston College,” says Andrew Davidson, senior vice president for University Advancement. “Their generosity has been widespread, and their latest gift demonstrates their faith in BC’s leadership. We are incredibly grateful for their support.”

A graduate of the School of Nursing, Beth (Verre) Martignetti worked for many years at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, primarily as a surgical nurse, including in cardiothoracic surgery. Carmine Martignetti, who joined the BC Board of Trustees in 2015, is president and co-owner of Martignetti Companies, a leading distributor of wine, spirits, and malt beverages in the U.S. The Martignettis have three sons: Freddie, Philip, and Michael.