Bridgewater State University: A Legacy of Notable Alumni
Bridgewater State University (BSU), tracing its roots back to 1840, stands as the oldest permanently-located public higher education institution in Massachusetts. Initially founded as Bridgewater Normal School with the mission of training teachers, it has since evolved into a comprehensive university offering a wide array of programs in liberal arts, business, and aviation science. Over its long history, BSU has produced numerous accomplished graduates who have made significant contributions in diverse fields. This article explores some of the university's notable alumni, highlighting their achievements and the impact they have had on their communities and beyond.
The Enduring Influence of Teacher Education
Bridgewater State University is often called the "home of teacher education in America" due to its long-standing commitment to preparing educators. This legacy is reflected in the accomplishments of its alumni in the field of education.
- Robert Correia: Served as a teacher and politician, representing the 12th and 7th Bristol Districts in the Massachusetts House of Representatives from 1977 to 2008 and later as the 41st Mayor of Fall River, Massachusetts.
- Patricia Haddad: Another prominent figure in Massachusetts politics, Haddad is a teacher and politician representing the 5th Bristol district in the Massachusetts House of Representatives. She also held the position of Speaker pro Tempore of the House.
- Warren G. Phillips: An American science teacher inducted into the National Teachers Hall of Fame in 2010.
- Frank Palmer Speare: Served as the first president of Northeastern University from 1898 to 1940, after beginning the evening program at the Boston YMCA that later became Northeastern.
- William G. Vinal: An American naturalist, nature educator, and conservationist who was a faculty member at Massachusetts State College (now the University of Massachusetts Amherst). He is known as the "Father of Nature Recreation."
These alumni exemplify BSU's commitment to producing educators who are not only knowledgeable in their respective fields but also dedicated to serving their communities.
Contributions to Arts and Culture
BSU alumni have also made their mark in the arts and entertainment industry, showcasing their creativity and talent to a wide audience.
- Jeffrey Donovan: A versatile American actor known for his role as Michael Westen in the television series Burn Notice. He has also appeared in films such as Hitch, Changeling, and J. Edgar, portraying Robert F. Kennedy in the latter.
- Robert Stack: An American actor and television host recognized for his deep voice and commanding presence. He starred in The Untouchables and hosted Unsolved Mysteries. He received an Academy Award nomination for his role in Written on the Wind.
- Mark Goddard: An American actor best known for portraying Major Don West in the CBS series Lost in Space.
- Jeff Corwin: An American biologist, wildlife conservationist, and television host known for Going Wild with Jeff Corwin, The Jeff Corwin Experience, Ocean Mysteries with Jeff Corwin/Ocean Treks with Jeff Corwin, and Wildlife Nation with Jeff Corwin.
These individuals have captivated audiences with their performances and have contributed to the cultural landscape through their work in film, television, and wildlife conservation.
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Leadership and Service in Politics and Government
Many BSU alumni have pursued careers in politics and government, serving as leaders and advocates for their constituents.
- Gayle McLaughlin: An American politician from Richmond, California, who served as the city's mayor for two consecutive terms.
- Peter Koutoujian: The current Sheriff of Middlesex County, Massachusetts, and a former member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives.
- Joan Menard: A retired American politician who also served as the vice president for work force development, lifelong learning, grant development, and external affairs at Bristol Community College.
- James H. Fagan: An American attorney and politician who represented the 3rd Bristol District in the Massachusetts House of Representatives.
- Edward M. Lambert, Jr.: An American politician and government official who currently serves as vice chancellor for government relations and public affairs at the University of Massachusetts Boston.
- John C. Klimm: An American municipal administrator and politician.
- Stephen Canessa: A former member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, representing the 12th Bristol District.
- Kathleen Teahan: A former member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, representing the 7th Plymouth District.
- David B. Sullivan: A former member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, representing the 6th Bristol District.
- John C. Bradford: A carpenter and politician who represented the 10th Bristol District in the Massachusetts House of Representatives.
These alumni have demonstrated their commitment to public service through their work in various levels of government, shaping policies and advocating for the needs of their communities.
Contributions to Science and Technology
BSU alumni have also excelled in the fields of science and technology, making significant contributions to research, innovation, and education.
- Erico Fortes: Holds a master's degree in computer science from BSU. He is a Professor of Computer Science and President of the House of Science at Uni-CV, as well as the founder of PrimeBotics in Cabo Verde. Fortes' work focuses on using drones for agriculture and reforestation purposes in Cabo Verde, addressing issues such as deforestation, soil erosion, and water scarcity. He developed a seed release mechanism for drones and collaborates with the Ministry of Agriculture and the United Nations Development Program.
- Isawa Shūji: A Japanese educator of the Meiji period.
- Grace Mannheimer: A marine biologist and malacologist, known as the world's expert on Teredinidae or shipworms.
These alumni have advanced scientific knowledge and have applied their expertise to address pressing global challenges.
Athletics
- Barbara Stevens: A former head coach of the Bentley University women's basketball team, inducted into the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006 and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2020.
- Kathy Delaney-Smith: An American former college basketball coach who retired after 40 seasons as head coach of the women's basketball team at Harvard University.
Other Fields
- Barry Clifford: An American underwater archaeological explorer.
- Jason Schappert: An American pilot, entrepreneur, CFII, ATP rated pilot, founder of MzeroA.com, and author of aviation flight training books.
- Helen Tibbo: An American archivist, professor, and author writing about digital preservation in the archival profession.
The Cape Verdean Connection
Bridgewater State University has a strong connection to the Cape Verdean community, with many students from Cabo Verde attending the university and contributing to its diverse campus culture. Several alumni have returned to Cabo Verde to make a difference in their homeland.
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- Erico Fortes: As mentioned earlier, Fortes is actively involved in promoting science and technology education in Cabo Verde.
- Paulo Borges: Holds a Master of Arts in Teaching English from BSU and is an ESL Professor and Coordinator of American Corner at Uni-CV. Borges emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and cultural understanding in education.
- Benvinda Cardoso Butler: A graduate with a degree in Social Work, Butler participated in BSU's Sustainability Tour to Cabo Verde, which deepened her connection to her homeland and reinforced her commitment to sustainability.
- Harold Tavares: An undergraduate transfer student from Cabo Verde, Tavares developed global connections at BSU and remained on campus after graduating to help the university grow its international partnerships.
- Emanuel De Pina: A Criminal Justice graduate, De Pina found a supportive and empathetic environment at BSU, which helped him overcome challenges as an immigrant and person of color.
- Anaisha Mauricio: A current student, Mauricio's experience as a Cape Verdean student in the United States has inspired her to connect with her culture and help other Cape Verdeans learn about their heritage.
- Mark Costa: A third-generation Cape Verdean, Costa participated in a Travel Course to Cabo Verde to learn more about his heritage and environmental geography.
The experiences of these Cape Verdean alumni highlight the transformative impact that BSU can have on students, empowering them to become leaders and agents of change in their communities.
Awards and Recognition
Bridgewater State University recognizes the accomplishments of its alumni through various awards and honors, celebrating their contributions to the university and the wider world. Some of these awards include:
- Alumni Awards: Spotlight on Excellence: Presented biannually to individuals who have contributed to the success and reputation of BSU.
- Graduate Alumnus/na Professional Achievement Award: Recognizes distinguished alumni for their professional achievements.
- Community Service Award: Honors individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to community service.
- Meritorious Service Award: Recognizes non-alumni who have shown dedication to the University through their contributions of time, talents, or financial resources.
- Bridge Builder Award: Presented to a student and/or student group of color that has taken the initiative to address campus unity.
- Award for Enriching the Lives of BSU Students: Honors faculty, staff, or administrators who have volunteered their energy and talents to enrich the lives of students.
- Distinguished Award: Recognizes alumni for their outstanding achievements.
- Award for Professional Achievement & Community Service: Recognizes alumni for their professional accomplishments and commitment to community service.
- Award for Achievement in the Field of Public Education: Honors individuals who have made significant contributions to public education.
- Award for Achievement in the Arts: Recognizes alumni for their achievements in the arts.
- Award for Outstanding Service to the BAA: Recognizes alumni who have demonstrated generosity and service to create a legacy for future generations of alumni.
- West-Whitelow Humanitarian Service Award: Recognizes alumni for their dedication to service through their involvement with the Frederick Church of the Brethren and Bridgewater College.
- Distinguished Alumnus Award: Presented posthumously to Richard Claybrook Jr. for his service as a public servant.
- Young Alumna Award: Presented to Laura Boyd Farmer for her work as a licensed professional counselor.
- Phillip Stone Award for Exemplary Service to the College: Presented to G. Darean Talmadge for her work providing social services to children and families who have experienced trauma.
These awards highlight the diverse achievements of BSU alumni and their commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
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