Stonehill College: A Legacy Forged by Notable Alumni

Stonehill College, a private Catholic institution in Easton, Massachusetts, has cultivated a rich history since its establishment in 1948. From its humble beginnings on the Frederick Lothrop Ames Jr. estate to its current status as a respected liberal arts college with Division I athletics, Stonehill has fostered an environment of academic and athletic excellence. A key component of Stonehill's legacy lies in the accomplishments of its alumni, who have made significant contributions across various fields.

From Seminary Grounds to College Campus

The story of Stonehill College began in the autumn of 1934 when the Holy Cross Fathers sought a new location for their growing seminary. The purchase of the current campus from Mrs. Frederick Lothrop Ames Jr. in 1935 marked the beginning of Stonehill's transformation. The initial acquisition comprised 350 acres, including the original Ames mansion, later expanded with an additional 190 acres. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts officially authorized the establishment of Stonehill College on June 30, 1948, and the first class of 134 men enrolled in September of that year. The Science Building, later renamed the Tracy Science Building in honor of David Tracy, a former advisor and trustee, was the first building constructed, opening in February 1949. The college embraced coeducation in the fall of 1951, welcoming 19 women into its student body.

Academic Growth and Development

Stonehill College has experienced significant academic growth over the years. Through the May School of Arts and Sciences and the Meehan School of Business, the college offers Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Bachelor of Science (B.S.), and Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) degrees at the undergraduate level. The college has also expanded its offerings to include several master's degree programs. The MacPhaidin Library, a three-story structure spanning 600,000 square feet, opened in May 1998, housing an extensive collection of print volumes, full-text databases, and computer labs. In June 2017, the college announced a $10 million donation from W.B. Mason to establish the Leo J. Meehan School of Business, named after alumnus Leo J. Meehan.

A Hub for Arts, Athletics, and Alumni Engagement

Stonehill College fosters a vibrant campus life through various activities and organizations. The first issue of the college newspaper, The Summit, was published on November 3, 1949, providing a platform for student voices. The Athletic Department fields 21 competitive NCAA Division I intercollegiate varsity sports. Stonehill's combination of academic and athletic success has earned it a high ranking among NCAA Division II schools. In April 2022, Stonehill announced its transition to Division I. W.B. Mason Stadium, a 2,400-seat multipurpose sports stadium, serves as the home for Skyhawk football, lacrosse, field hockey, and track & field. The Stonehill Alumni Magazine (SAM), published twice a year, connects and engages with alumni through stories, profiles, and campus news.

Notable Alumni: A Testament to Stonehill's Impact

Stonehill College has produced a diverse array of accomplished alumni who have made their mark in various fields. These individuals exemplify the values and education instilled at Stonehill, contributing to society in meaningful ways.

Read also: Stonehill College Guide

Ed Cooley: Leading on the Basketball Court

Ed Cooley, a 1994 graduate, is a prominent figure in college basketball. He is currently the head coach of the Georgetown Hoyas men's basketball program. Before Georgetown, Cooley served as the head coach at Providence College from 2011 to 2023 and at Fairfield University from 2006 to 2011. His coaching prowess has earned him national recognition, including the Naismith College Coach of the Year award in 2022 and the Ben Jobe National Coach of the Year Award in 2010.

Michael Novak: A Voice in Philosophy and Journalism

Michael Novak (Class of 1956), was an American Catholic philosopher, journalist, novelist, and diplomat. The author of more than forty books on the philosophy and theology of culture, Novak is most widely known for his book The Spirit of Democratic Capitalism (1982). In 1994 he was awarded the Templeton Prize for Progress in Religion. He wrote books and articles focused on capitalism, religion, and the politics of democratization. Stonehill College is the repository of the papers of alumnus and trustee, Michael Novak

Claire D. Cronin: Ambassador to Ireland

Claire D. Cronin, a 1982 graduate with a degree in political science, has had a distinguished career in public service. She served as the United States Ambassador to Ireland from 2022 to 2025. Prior to her ambassadorship, Cronin was a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives from 2013 to 2022, where she made history as the first woman to serve as House Majority Leader.

Daniel F. Conley: District Attorney

Daniel F. Conley is an American attorney and politician who served as the district attorney for Suffolk County, Massachusetts from 2002 to 2018. Appointed to the office in February 2002, Conley was later elected on November 5, 2002, and again in 2006, 2010, and 2014. He retired in 2018 to enter private practice.

Scott Thompson: CEO of Tuition.io

Scott Thompson is an American businessman, and currently CEO of Tuition.io. Previously, he was chief executive officer of ShopRunner.

William P. Driscoll: Military Officer

William Patrick "Willy Irish" Driscoll is a retired commander in the United States Navy and a highly decorated flying ace.

Doug McIntyre: Radio Personality and Author

Douglas John McIntyre is the author of Frank’s Shadow, his debut novel, published in July, 2023 and is the former host of McIntyre In The Morning on KABC 790 Los Angeles. He retired after 22 years in broadcasting on December 14, 2018. McIntyre is a long-time columnist for the Southern California News Group which includes the Los Angeles Daily News.

Marjorie Clapprood: Radio Personality and Politician

Marjorie O'Neill Clapprood is an American former politician and talk show host who served as a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives for the 8th Norfolk District from 1985 to 1991. Clapprood was the Democratic nominee for Lieutenant Governor in 1990.

Thomas P. Kennedy: Politician

Thomas Patrick Kennedy was an American politician.

Christopher Markey: Politician

Christopher M. Markey is an American lawyer and politician serving as a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives from the 9th Bristol district. A member of the Democratic Party, he was first elected in 2010.

Read also: Stonehill College Overview

J. Michael Lennon: Biographer

J. Michael Lennon is a biographer.

Meghan Kilcoyne: Politician

Meghan Kilcoyne is an American politician in Massachusetts representing 12th Worcester district in the Massachusetts House of Representatives.

Other Notable Alumni

The list of accomplished Stonehill alumni extends beyond those mentioned above. Other notable individuals include:

Judith A. Salerno (1973): Former president and CEO of Susan G. Komen.
A. Michael DeSisto (1962): Founder of a school for troubled youth.
Richard P. Flavin (1958): Broadcaster and political satirist.
Ann L. Hagan (1965): Vice President at Merrill Lynch White Weld Capital Markets Group.
Paul B. Flynn (1957): Communications industry professional.
Rita E. Smith (1962): Educator.
Richard D. Lehan (1952): Scholar and literary figure.
Thomas J. May (1969): Leader in the Boston business community.
Marsha A. Moses (1975): Researcher and scholar in the fight against cancer.
George Hagerty (1975): Teacher, scholar, and senior policymaker.
Robert Beggan (1966): Advocate for volunteer activities.
Catherine Sabaitis (1975): Attorney specializing in family issues.
Judith E. McDowell (1969): Advocate for environmental awareness and protection.
Richard Lally (1979): Nuclear physicist, military leader, and scholar.
Elizabeth (O'Connor) Fini (1975): Medical researcher.
Rev. Arthur “Bud” Colgan, C.S.C. (1968): Auxiliary Bishop in Peru.
Michael Alloco (1973): Stonehill basketball player and first alumnus drafted by a professional sports team.
Br. Paul Bednarczyk, C.S.C. (1980): Leader in the Congregation of Holy Cross.

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