Winter 2024

Soaring Higher, Together

Andrew K. Davidson
Senior Vice President for University Advancement

Hello!

This fall, we celebrated a momentous occasion as we marked the launch of Soaring Higher: the Campaign for Boston College just before Family Weekend. The campaign opening celebration at Bapst Library paid homage to the history of philanthropy at BC with a glance toward the University’s limitless future, which will be inspired by the visionary benefactors who carry on a 160-year tradition of support for the University.

This tenth issue of Beacon offers a deeper exploration of who and what animates Soaring Higher. We look back at those benefactors who have come before, including a photo from the University’s first official fundraising campaign launched 102 years ago. You will learn more about the three pillars upon which Soaring Higher stands: financial aid, academics, and student life. You will also hear from the BC champions at the helm of this effort, including our campaign co-chair couples, Cyndy and John F. Fish; Brigid Doherty ’96 and Rene Jones ’86, P’25; Patti and Jonathan A. Kraft, P’24; Kim Gassett-Schiller and Philip Schiller ’82; and Marianne D. Short NC’73, JD’76, and Raymond Skowyra Jr., P’05.

It’s clear these Eagles have a deep affection for Boston College, and I am thrilled they are sharing their enthusiasm and motivations for leading this effort within the pages of our magazine.

Soaring Higher offers us an opportunity to reflect on our priorities as an institution and to make advancements that will strengthen the University for generations to come. I am confident that, with the support of committed friends like you, Boston College can realize its ambitious vision for the campaign.

Finally, I am grateful to you and the entire BC community for your warm welcome to the Heights. Since starting my role in March, I have been inspired by so many remarkable individuals—students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and friends—who contribute to the University’s success. Thank you for everything you do to make Boston College such a special place.

IN THIS ISSUE

A tribute honoring Sister Putnam unfolds on a red tablecloth, featuring historical photographs, documents, and memorabilia, including a framed black and white portrait at the center. Some items are in binders, accompanied by a program from Boston College Commencement 1992.

Honoring Sister Putnam

Newton College alumnae, friends, and family gathered to celebrate the naming of the Putnam Conference Room in honor of beloved mentor, artist, and professor Carol Putnam, RSCJ, H’92.

A group of ten women from the early 20th century stand in front of a building. They are wearing long coats and various styles of hats, some with fur collars, raising their heights. The background features ornate brickwork and a stained glass window.

Raising the Heights

Realizing Soaring Higher‘s full potential requires a better understanding of the people and moments that have made it all possible.

Collage of various images surrounding a central statue. Includes people working on laptops, shopping, and interacting. Text encircles the statue: "In all things, to love and to serve." Scribbles and abstract shapes hint at exploring the other side for better understanding.

I came out better on the other side

Every Eagle charts their own path at the Heights. For Delaney ’23, Taji ’24, and Chloe ’25, their experience at BC has made all the difference.

Having supported the scholarships of nearly 40 Eagles over the years, Sue Shea insists there are few gifts greater than a BC education.

I’m Investing in You.

BC Trustee Sue Martinelli Shea ’76 has helped 38 students–and counting–find a home at the Heights through scholarships. “It’s a gift for me…I love looking at somebody in the face and saying: ‘I believe in you.’”

Soaring Higher campaign co-chairs

A Team Effort

Meet the tireless co-chairs leading alumni, parents, and friends into the largest fundraising campaign in BC’s history.

A man sits on a wooden bench next to a black and white dog wearing a red bandana. The man is wearing a navy jacket and jeans. They are outdoors with green foliage in the background.

Ben Anderson

For years, Ben has played matchmaker between BC and its benefactors. Now he takes on a new challenge leading strategy for Soaring Higher.

A tribute honoring Sister Putnam unfolds on a red tablecloth, featuring historical photographs, documents, and memorabilia, including a framed black and white portrait at the center. Some items are in binders, accompanied by a program from Boston College Commencement 1992.

Honoring Sister Putnam

Newton College alumnae, friends, and family gathered to celebrate the naming of the Putnam Conference Room in honor of beloved mentor, artist, and professor Carol Putnam, RSCJ, H’92.

A group of ten women from the early 20th century stand in front of a building. They are wearing long coats and various styles of hats, some with fur collars, raising their heights. The background features ornate brickwork and a stained glass window.

Raising the Heights

Realizing Soaring Higher‘s full potential requires a better understanding of the people and moments that have made it all possible.

Collage of various images surrounding a central statue. Includes people working on laptops, shopping, and interacting. Text encircles the statue: "In all things, to love and to serve." Scribbles and abstract shapes hint at exploring the other side for better understanding.

I came out better on the other side

Every Eagle charts their own path at the Heights. For Delaney ’23, Taji ’24, and Chloe ’25, their experience at BC has made all the difference.

Having supported the scholarships of nearly 40 Eagles over the years, Sue Shea insists there are few gifts greater than a BC education.

I’m Investing in You.

BC Trustee Sue Martinelli Shea ’76 has helped 38 students–and counting–find a home at the Heights through scholarships. “It’s a gift for me…I love looking at somebody in the face and saying: ‘I believe in you.’”

Soaring Higher campaign co-chairs

A Team Effort

Meet the tireless co-chairs leading alumni, parents, and friends into the largest fundraising campaign in BC’s history.

A man sits on a wooden bench next to a black and white dog wearing a red bandana. The man is wearing a navy jacket and jeans. They are outdoors with green foliage in the background.

Ben Anderson

For years, Ben has played matchmaker between BC and its benefactors. Now he takes on a new challenge leading strategy for Soaring Higher.