Alumni Profile

How 91��Ƶ Transformed an Alumnus’s Outlook on Education

BBENSON@bridgew.edu — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 14:10:11 +0000

How 91��Ƶ Transformed an Alumnus’s Outlook on Education BBENSON@bridgew.edu Mon, 09/14/2026 - 10:10

Weston Smith, ’18, credits his 91��Ƶ experience with giving him the confidence to pursue a doctoral program

September 15, 2026

Brian Benson, G'23

When Weston Smith, '18, crossed the 91��Ƶ commencement stage, he celebrated an academic milestone that was as much about his two young children as it was about himself.

Smith's path to a bachelor's degree spanned two decades and three attempts before culminating in a 91��Ƶ degree in strategic communications.

"I wanted to progress not only with my education but also my career," he said. "The bigger factor was that I was going to lead by example for my children. Why would I expect them to do it if I couldn't do it myself?”

After graduating magna cum laude from 91��Ƶ, Smith went on to earn an MBA. Now, he is beginning a doctorate program at the University of North Carolina. It's quite a transformation for someone who withdrew from his first attempt at college after just three semesters.

"I was undisciplined, unfocused and didn't have much of a purpose," he said of his late teenage years.

Smith joined the military, serving 29 years in public affairs and military intelligence with the Massachusetts Air National Guard, including time as a senior operations and program leader. He first enrolled at Bridgewater State in 2006, but his military travel and commitments interrupted his education.

A decade later, Smith had started a family and was working more consistently on Cape Cod. The timing was perfect because 91��Ƶ had begun offering degrees on the Cape in the very same Yarmouth building where Smith had attended elementary school.

"It was the right time, the right place and the right people," he said. "It all just aligned. I saw an opportunity to go back."

Smith found welcoming professors and staff, including Dr. Bjorn Ingvoldstad, a communication professor who wrote recommendation letters for him. He appreciated the variety of classes, such as Strategic Writing, Introduction to Folklore, Foundations of Media and the physics course Exploring the Universe.

“It was a small, intimate campus,” he said, noting that the experience changed his outlook on education. “Everyone there was very supportive and encouraging.”

Smith, who is married to a German national, lives in Germany with his family. He's enrolled in an online doctoral program that focuses on organizational learning and leadership. He hopes to use all of his education and experience to become a teacher or consultant focused on developing future leaders.

"It really bolstered my confidence," he said of the impact of 91��Ƶ. "If I didn't have that experience with 91��Ƶ, I probably would have just stopped."

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.

I wanted to progress not only with my education but also my career. The bigger factor was that I was going to lead by example for my children. Why would I expect them to do it if I couldn't do it myself?

Weston Smith, '18, on going to 91��Ƶ

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She Went to Washington. Then the World Changed.

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 14:44:42 +0000

She Went to Washington. Then the World Changed. HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Thu, 09/03/2026 - 10:44

How 9/11 reshaped one alumna’s view of government — and her future

September 11, 2026

Heather Harris Michonski, G'26

Just 10 days after moving to Washington, D.C., for an internship, Katie McCue, ’03, found herself in the middle of a day that would forever change the United States — and her understanding of what she wanted to do with her life.

That day was September 11, 2001.

On that fateful day, terrorists hijacked four airplanes and used them to strike the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in D.C.

McCue was working in an office on Capitol Hill when security guards rushed in and instructed anyone wearing heels to take them off and run.

“They thought more planes were coming to hit the Capitol building … It was quite traumatic and life-changing,” she said.

McCue was ushered into a car with a staffer who brought the young intern to their home in Maryland. She stayed there until things settled. When she made it back to her apartment, she could see the Pentagon burning from her balcony.

Despite that unsettling beginning McCue felt connected to the city and found her purpose.

Twenty-five years ago, McCue, then a junior at Bridgewater State had secured the internship through the Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars. She was turned on to the opportunity by Political Science Professor Dr. George Serra.

Originally, McCue was studying sociology. After taking an American Government class with Serra, she decided government was her true calling and majored in political science.

“He was a mentor to me, and it was through his leadership that I learned of the internship at the Washington Center,” she said.

McCue arrived in Washington, D.C., eager to work in the nation’s capital. She couldn’t have known how quickly that experience would become unforgettable.

Despite that unsettling beginning, McCue felt connected to the city and found her purpose.

“It sounds a little crazy, but I just fell in love with being at the center of the decision-making. I believe government is a force of good. The notion that it’s bad or can take something from you, that’s not true. Government can do the most good for many people,” she said.

After graduating from 91��Ƶ with a degree in political science and minor in public relations, McCue continued her education and earned a master’s in political management from George Washington University.

Since then, McCue has built a career across several roles, each adding another layer to the experience she brings to her work today.

For the past 15 years, the 91��Ƶ alumna has worked for the Massachusetts Municipal Association, where she is now deputy executive director.

The organization represents all 351 cities and towns in Massachusetts, serving as a unified voice for local governments across the state.

“When I was in my early 20s, like most young people, I thought government only happens in D.C. I didn’t know then, but I do now. Local government is the closest to the people,” McCue said. “Local government is making sure the streets are plowed, the trash is picked up, it oversees public safety and schools.”

She often comes back to her alma mater to talk with students and encourages them to reach out to her on LinkedIn to learn more about working in local government. McCue also stresses that a degree from a state school is just as valuable as one from a school with a more prestigious name.

“I think public higher education is more important now than ever. We need to make sure we have affordable options that make sense for families to get a high-quality education,” she said. “I’m really proud of my career, and it’s fun to be able to talk to students and say, ‘You can have an impactful career, too, after your time at Bridgewater.’”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

I think public higher education is more important now than ever. We need to make sure we have affordable options that make sense for families to get a high-quality education. I’m really proud of my career, and it’s fun to be able to talk to students and say, ‘You can have an impactful career, too, after your time at Bridgewater'

Katie McCue, ’03

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The Commute That Changed Everything

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 19:31:43 +0000

The Commute That Changed Everything HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Mon, 08/24/2026 - 15:31

Choosing Bridgewater set Antone Moniz on a path from working student to head of one of New England's largest correctional facilities

August 26, 2026

Heather Harris Michonski

Although nearly 30 years separate 91��Ƶ alumnus Antone Moniz from today’s students, his story mirrors that of those walking on campus today.

The son of an immigrant, the 1994 graduate chose 91��Ƶ because he needed a school that allowed him to commute from his Fall River home.

“Bridgewater was a very doable commute. I needed a school close by, and it offered criminology, my area of interest. I also needed affordability. Bridgewater offered all of it,” Moniz said.

Like many of today’s students, he also worked while attending school, sometimes up to 40 hours a week at Taunton Hospital’s Juvenile Residential Program. Balancing a full-time job and academics was admittedly demanding, but Moniz found he wasn’t alone.

“Many students were in the same boat, balancing both worlds. It was challenging, but Bridgewater was accommodating to those challenges, and it was not unique,” he said.

Thankfully, he said, there was invested faculty willing to guide him toward earning a degree in sociology with minors in criminology and psychology.

“It wasn’t necessarily the lessons they taught in academia, but more of the life lessons they taught. At the time I was a young man and they taught me what the real world would present, and the challenges I would face," Moniz said. "Those lessons were much greater than those found in an academic book. They created lasting impressions on me."

Today, Moniz serves as the superintendent of the Plymouth County Correctional Facility.

The Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association recently honored him with the 2025 Jail Administrator of the Year Award for his outstanding leadership, exceptional audit results, and nearly three decades of service in corrections.

In his role, he is responsible for overseeing one of the largest correctional facilities in New England. He compares his job to managing a small town. From food, shelter, and medical needs to educational programs and security, he juggles many responsibilities.

“For example, we serve 3,000 meals a day. Not too many outfits in the world do that,” he said. “Ultimately, my job is to ensure that the facility is run as efficiently as possible, that staff is trained, ensuring compliance, that the facility and grounds are in top shape, that there is order and control, and that we offer the inmates the highest level of security while they serve their sentences.”

Throughout his career, he’s also had the support of another Bridgewater alumna. He met Christine, his wife of 30 years, as an undergraduate. She graduated in 1991 with a degree in elementary education. Together they have two adult children, Ethan and Alexandra.

“She is an absolute academic genius,” he said. “She is an exceptional mother and an amazing support system for me. She has been a tutor, a friend, and believer in me. If not for her, I would not have had the professional success I have.”

Moniz’s time at Bridgewater State was impactful, from meeting the love of his life to building the foundation of a successful career.

“Bridgewater helped me prepare for my career goals. It helped me find the balance between full-time work, commuting, and maintaining high academic standards,” he said. “Bridgewater taught me discipline, dedication, and accountability. Each of these characteristics was instilled in me and allowed me to be successful in my career and throughout the different leadership positions I’ve held.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

Bridgewater taught me discipline, dedication, and accountability. Each of these characteristics was instilled in me and allowed me to be successful in my career and throughout the different leadership positions I’ve held.

Antone Moniz, '94

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Ready for the Next Dive

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 18:36:16 +0000

Ready for the Next Dive HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Fri, 08/07/2026 - 14:36

Cailey Simard, '25, G'27, found success through diving, discipline and determination

August 12, 2026

Heather Harris Michonski

During her time at 91��Ƶ, Cailey Simard, ’25, G’27 made quite a splash. She consistently broke both 91��Ƶ and personal records from the diving board, putting a sport that often gets overlooked in the spotlight.

“I think sometimes people forget it’s a sport. It doesn’t get a lot of attention," Cailey said. "Being able to show that we are a team, and very good at what we do ... it’s been really cool to bring attention to it."

In her senior year, the Double Bear went undefeated in 1-meter diving and earned five victories on the 3-meter board with just one second-place finish. At the 2026 Little East Conference Championships, Cailey earned both the 1-meter and 3-meter titles, also receiving All-Little East honors in each.

She also went undefeated all four years she competed at the LEC Championships and was named Little East Conference Diver of the Year every season.

But it wasn’t just in the pool that Cailey succeeded. She worked just as hard in the classroom.

Earlier this year, she was named the Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year.

“I didn’t even know I was in the running for it, but when I saw I got it, I thought, 'This is awesome,' because I think it’s important to be able to show that, not only can you play sports, but you can also get good grades while playing a sport,” Cailey said.

While self-motivated, she credits the support of her diving coach Nicole Radanovics and professors like Dr. Karen Richardson and Dr. Misti Neutzling, who helped her succeed both in the pool and in the classroom as she worked toward earning a degree in physical education.

“I admit it was hard at the beginning because it was such a big change from high school. I think if I didn’t have [those supports], I would have felt lost,” Cailey said.

Making her 91��Ƶ career even more special is that her mother, Kelly Simard, ’99, dove into the same Kelly Gymnasium pool as a member of the diving team nearly 30 years ago. Kelly was a driving factor in Cailey's decision to attend Bridgewater.

“It’s cool from a family perspective that my mom also went here and dove here, but I also knew that I wanted to go into teaching and it’s a good teaching school,” she said.

Cailey is currently enrolled in 91��Ƶ’s master’s in physical education, with the goal of becoming an elementary physical education teacher and diving coach at the high school level.

Her time competing as a Bear may be ending, but she is grateful to have had the student-athlete experience.

“Being on a team actually helped me do better in school,” Cailey said. “And our coach always put school before practice. School was always a priority. I know some schools don’t do that, but Bridgewater really instilled that keeping on top of your studies makes you a better athlete.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

I think it’s important to be able to show that, not only can you play sports, but you can also get good grades while playing a sport.

Cailey Simard, '25, G'27

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Student Spotlight

Teaching From the Heart

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 17:50:58 +0000

Teaching From the Heart HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Mon, 06/29/2026 - 13:50

91��Ƶ alumna turned a mid-career leap into two decades of joyful impact in East Bridgewater school

July 1, 2026

Heather Harris Michonski

Despite having a successful career in banking, Sandi Telless, ’02, knew it wasn’t her true calling.

“At age 40, I quit my banking job to go back to school to be a teacher,” she said. “It was the best decision of my life.”

Telless chose 91��Ƶ to continue her education, earning a degree in early elementary and physical education. Since then, she has served as a beloved kindergarten teacher for 20 years at Central School in East Bridgewater.

She approaches teaching from a place of love, making sure to engage with and get to know every student. And Telless has fun while doing it. Her colleagues often see her dancing in the halls and during classroom dance parties, and handing out warm embraces during “Free Hug Fridays.”

“I always try to be myself, so my kids know it’s okay to be yourself. I don’t worry about what other people are doing. I’m animated in my classroom, and have been known to ride a unicycle,” she said. “I just really enjoy every moment I get to work with the kids.”

Central School Principal Kate Byrne said Telless is “the heart of our kindergarten program and cornerstone of the East Bridgewater community.”

“She believes deeply in inclusivity, play-based learning, and the power of joy,” Bryne said. “Her commitment to creating a welcoming environment ensures that every child feels seen, valued, and celebrated.”

Telless has also continued to work with 91��Ƶ over the years. She is an active member of the Professional Development School Partnership and has taken countless 91��Ƶ student teachers under her wing.

“She has proudly represented her alma mater while helping to prepare and mentor future educators,” Bryne said. “Her leadership reflects the very best of Bridgewater State’s values.”

Telless was recently honored with the 2026 91��Ƶ Alumni Educator Award.

According to Tracy Charbonnier, assistant director of Education and Health Sciences Outreach, each state university selects one alumni educator for the award annually. Following a nomination process, the College of Education and Health Sciences selected Telless.

“Sandi is such a fantastic person,” Charbonnier said.

She noted that Telless has partnered with 91��Ƶ in many ways, including working with Elementary Education faculty to host 91��Ƶ block/cluster students, who taught reading to kindergarten students. She has also participated in Project EarthView, a program offered through the Center for the Advancement of STEM Education that uses giant inflatable globes and interactive floor maps to create hands-on geography learning experiences for students.

Telless is modest about the praise and the award.

“I’m speechless,” she said. “It means so much to be recognized by the school.”

More importantly, she wants to continue teaching and has no doubts about her decision to switch gears mid-career.

“I always thought I wanted to be a banker,” she said, “but you have to trust what your heart says, not what your brain says.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

I always thought I wanted to be a banker but you have to trust what your heart says, not what your brain says.

Sandi Telless, ’02

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How a Bridgewater State Connection Helped Launch Brittany Giudici’s Career in Tech

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 17:18:58 +0000

How a Bridgewater State Connection Helped Launch Brittany Giudici’s Career in Tech HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Thu, 06/11/2026 - 13:18

The communications graduate credits relationships built on campus with helping shape a career that has taken her from Apple to Microsoft

June 17, 2026

Heather Harris Michonski, G'26

Fifteen years ago, Brittany (Benson) Giudici, ’10, was walking to class at 91��Ƶ when she bumped into her friend Dan Kent, ’10. During the conversation, he alerted Giudici to a potential job opportunity.

Kent’s friend who worked at Apple, Inc. was interviewing for communications roles in marketing at the internship level.

“He asked me if it was something I’d be interested in. I said, ‘yes! Of course," Giudici recalled.

After interviewing, she was hired. When the semester ended, Giudici moved to California and spent her summer working on marketing and communications for the iPhone 3GS on Apple’s Worldwide Sales Team.

Since then, the 91��Ƶ alumna’s career has taken her all over the globe working with tech companies focused on online retail, human and AI-generated language translation technology, and multi-national enterprise networks.

But it was that Bridgewater connection that started it all for the former North Attleboro resident. After she completed her summer internship with Apple, Giudici returned to campus to finish school and earn a degree in communications.

“My experience at Bridgewater was very positive. I was a commuter and delayed starting school because my mom passed away,” she said. “I was going through a big life transition and was a little apprehensive about what my college experience was going to be like.”

What she did to quell those nerves was to get involved. Outside of being a stellar student, she joined Gamma Phi Beta and got involved in the school’s communications club and other organizations.

“I made sure to get involved,” Guidici said. “That strongly contributed to my positive experience. I felt very connected to everyone on campus.”

The support she received from her professors, particularly Professor Nancy Van Leuven, also motivated her.

“I felt like my professors were deeply invested in my success. Some of them still email me even though it’s been 16 years,” Guidici said.

Today, she lives in Idaho with her husband Michael and their two children, Aubriella Aurora, 3, and Elliana Sienna, 1.

As she started a family, she also built a strong career and now works as director of communications for Microsoft’s Global Cybersecurity Division.

In her role, she translates complex strategies and technical concepts into clear, compelling narratives for both internal and external audiences.

Guidici enjoys being a “linchpin,” ensuring leadership messaging reflects real employee perspectives.

“I see my role as a connector. I listen to what employees are saying, understanding what leadership needs to communicate and making sure those two things come together in a way that’s authentic and impactful,” she said.

In addition to her work, she is also the founder of Treasure Valley Women in Tech, a mentorship and leadership-focused community. The goal of the organization is to bridge the gap between students, early-career professionals, and established leaders.

“After I had my first daughter, I thought about all the people who helped me along the way, and how much of that came from building connections,” Guidici said. “It’s all about connections and bringing women together across career stages so they can learn from each other, support each other, and see what’s possible.”

While her career has taken her far beyond Bridgewater State, there will always be one campus connection that continues to stand out.

“Dan was and still is someone I often think of when I look back at my career progression,” Guidici said. “It was him, and that connection that helped me get to where I am today.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

I see my role as a connector. I listen to what employees are saying, understanding what leadership needs to communicate and making sure those two things come together in a way that’s authentic and impactful.

Brittany (Benson) Giudici

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Finding His Voice Far From Home

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Wed, 06 May 2026 13:06:11 +0000

Finding His Voice Far From Home HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Wed, 05/06/2026 - 09:06

A future teacher reflects on language, belonging, and finding his path at Bridgewater State

May 27, 2026

Heather Harris Michonski, G'26

When Karl Badiola, ’26, moved to the United States from the Philippines at just 15 years old, he did his best to adjust.

Despite his excitement about living in a new country, he underestimated how difficult the transition would be — especially being away from his parents, learning a new language and culture.

For example, he was accustomed to standing up to answer questions in class, but when he did so here, he said, “I saw the confused looks on my classmates’ faces.”

He said he often felt lost, particularly when learning to speak English.

“A lot of times when someone is learning to speak English in a classroom, they appear slow or shy, but the reality is it’s because they have to pause and think about how to translate,” Badiola said.

He is grateful to his high school guidance counselor, who offered support and was a big part of the reason he was able not only to adapt but to thrive.

That personal connection inspired him. When it came time to decide what he wanted to do after high school, Badiola knew exactly which path he was going to take: teaching.

He brought his dream to 91��Ƶ, where he recently earned a degree in early childhood education and childhood studies.

“I knew from my research that 91��Ƶ offered one of the best education programs, and can say confidently, after four years here, it really is. The faculty, the work we do, it all sets you up to have a solid foundation, for you to become a great teacher,” Badiola said.

While at Bridgewater, he was initially going to sign up for an English as a Second Language course, but retired Professor Lou Ann Falls recognized that Badiola was more proficient than he realized.

“Instead of taking the class, she asked me if I wanted to be a tutor instead,” he said.

He secured a job working in the Academic Achievement Center helping others learn English. It opened up many other opportunities for him and made him feel welcomed and personally connected with faculty and students.

“Because of that first job, it made me want to be a larger part of the community,” he said.

Badiola went on to participate in the honors program, became a math tutor, and worked as a peer mentor in Student Accessibility Services.

“I noticed that all of these experiences have really helped me and are connected with how I want to teach in my own classroom,” he said.

From supporting multilingual students or helping those who might need special instruction, Badiola feels prepared to lead his own classroom.

His involvement didn’t go unnoticed. At the conclusion of his senior year, Badiola was honored with a “Bridgewater Best” award during the annual 91��Ƶ Impact Awards ceremony. The award recognizes graduating seniors for their outstanding impact on the 91��Ƶ community.

“When they mentioned my name, to know I made a lasting impact at 91��Ƶ…I was shocked,” he said.

As he leaves Bridgewater State to continue his journey, he encourages others to get involved.

“You can’t make an impact if you’re not involved. There are so many activities here — jobs, internships, study abroad, volunteer opportunities. The choices are endless,” he said. “Being involved, meeting different people, and the lasting impact of those connections — that’s what made me love 91��Ƶ.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

I knew from my research that 91��Ƶ offered one of the best education programs, and can say confidently, after four years here, it really is. The faculty, the work we do, it all sets you up to have a solid foundation, for you to become a great teacher.

Karl Badiola, ’26

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How 91��Ƶ's CPDC Helps Kids Gain Strength and Confidence

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:39:12 +0000

How 91��Ƶ's CPDC Helps Kids Gain Strength and Confidence HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Tue, 04/21/2026 - 12:39

An alumnus’s family reflects on progress, milestones, and independence

April 23, 2026

Heather Harris Michonski

Every time the Kent family pulls up to the 91��Ƶ campus, a little voice calls out from the back seat of the car.

“B.R.I.D.G.E.W.A.T.E.R.” said Dan Kent, ’10. “He just loves coming here and reads the sign every time we arrive.”

The little voice belongs to his 6-year-old son Desmond, who was born with Down Syndrome. He participates in 91��Ƶ’s Children’s Physical Development Clinic (CPDC) program.

Dan discovered the program when talking with other special needs parents. As an alumnus, he was excited to hear his alma mater offers support that benefits his son.

“To say I’m proud of Bridgewater, that they have this program, is an understatement. It’s great to be an alum and to know there are great programs like this for kids with disabilities,” he said.

At the CPDC, students from all majors volunteer as clinicians, working with children and youth with disabilities, ages 18 months to 18 years. The program’s goal is to improve the “total development” of children by enhancing vital physical, motor, and aquatic skills and patterns.

“My wife (Shari) comes from a background of early intervention, and she’s been blown away by all of the activities and structure,” Dan said. “And the students that work there have such high enthusiasm.”

Both Shari and Dan have excitedly watched Desmond’s growth, especially in the pool, a space that their son used to be afraid of.

“He loves it, no question. In just a few short weeks he was swimming independently; before, he would hang onto the edge for dear life,” Dan said.

That confidence has carried over into other areas of Desmond’s life.

“He’s talking more confidently than ever. I know the CPDC program has had a huge impact on him,” Dan said.

While Desmond is participating in the program, Dan takes advantage of the opportunity to go down memory lane and walk the 91��Ƶ campus with his 4-year-old daughter, Bianca.

“When we walk with her and show her things, it gives me time to reflect on college. I get to tell my daughter about what I did here, and that maybe she will go to Bridgewater one day,” Dan said.

It was during one of those walks that Dan learned about 91��Ƶ’s EXCEL program, a fully inclusive postsecondary program for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.

While visiting the bookstore, he came across two students eating lunch. He learned that, although they have disabilities, through EXCEL they enjoy the same experience as their college-aged peers in academics, socialization, career development, and independent living.

“I was so blown away. This level of inclusion didn’t exist when I was a student, and I’m so grateful that it does now,” Dan said.

Knowing his son can follow in his footprints and attend 91��Ƶ someday, something he wasn’t sure would ever be possible, makes him emotional.

“Sometimes parents with children who have disabilities see nothing but fear, and don’t always see the opportunities,” he said. “But knowing Desmond can go here, as long as he’s capable and wants to … I’m so grateful I went to Bridgewater. I’m grateful to be a Bear.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

To say I’m proud of Bridgewater, that they have this program, is an understatement. It’s great to be an alum and to know there are great programs like this for kids with disabilities.

Dan Kent, '10

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Bridgewater Music Alumna Leads her Students to Carnegie Hall

BBENSON@bridgew.edu — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 13:56:38 +0000

Bridgewater Music Alumna Leads her Students to Carnegie Hall BBENSON@bridgew.edu Wed, 03/25/2026 - 09:56

Colleen McDonough also performed at the renowned venue as a 91��Ƶ student

March 26, 2026

Brian Benson, G'23

For many musicians, performing at Carnegie Hall is a once-in-a-lifetime dream. Weymouth High School choral director Colleen McDonough, ’18, has now achieved it twice.

McDonough first graced one of the world’s most iconic stages as a 91��Ƶ student and member of the university’s Chamber Singers. Inspired by that surreal experience, she recently created the same opportunity for her students.

“It's incredible to think of the people who stood on that stage,” she said. “You could be standing exactly where Judy Garland stood. That’s really powerful.”

While McDonough’s Carnegie experience was a highlight of her 91��Ƶ journey, it was far from the only thing she gained from college. Arriving on campus as an older music education student, she thought she would attend classes and then go home. But her mindset completely changed when she experienced the welcoming, supportive atmosphere of 91��Ƶ’s music department.

“What I found instead was a family,” McDonough said. “Many of the folks I went to college with are now my best friends.”

McDonough appreciated many of the faculty, including Drs. Sarah McQuarrie, Jean Kreiling and Steven Young, who she still considers her mentors eight years after graduating.

“They still to this day have significant impacts on the work that I do,” she said. “I was incredibly well prepared for the world of music education, and we were always held to incredibly high standards.”

As a student, McDonough quickly understood the skills she needed to hone and was unafraid to ask for the resources that would set her up for success, McQuarrie recalled.

"I'm just so proud of her," McQuarrie said. "She's definitely a leader and role model and always trying to do better."

Both of McDonough's Carnegie performances were part of concerts that the nonprofit Distinguished Concerts International New York organized. While 91��Ƶ students joined singers from other schools, the Weymouth musicians enjoyed having the stage to themselves as McDonough led them through 35 minutes of singing as part of a concert titled “A Legacy of Song.”

Music has shaped McDonough’s career, fueled her passion, and built lasting friendships. She and her fellow Bears who performed at Carnegie keep the memory alive through a special tradition: singing music from their performance at each other’s weddings.

“It proves the power of music and the power of community,” she said. “Bridgewater gave me those things.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.

They still to this day have significant impacts on the work that I do. I was incredibly well prepared for the world of music education, and we were always held to incredibly high standards.

Colleen McDonough, ’18, on the role of 91��Ƶ music faculty

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Arts

91��Ƶ Alum Launches Art Career at 62, Featured on GBH

HHARRIS@bridgew.edu — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 17:52:07 +0000

91��Ƶ Alum Launches Art Career at 62, Featured on GBH HHARRIS@bridgew.edu Mon, 03/23/2026 - 13:52

Mai Mai Pietrowski, '73, turned a late start into a thriving career as a professional artist

March 24, 2026

Heather Harris Michonski

Mai Mai Pietrowski, ’73, didn’t pick up a paintbrush until she was 62. Since then, she has turned that late start into a new career as a professional artist, showing others that it’s never too late.

Her artwork, “Sunflowers of Provence,” was recently featured on Community Canvas, presented by GBH’s The Culture Show. Selected from a public call for artists, her piece recently appeared on a massive digital screen, bringing her work to a wide, ever-changing audience.

This past December, Pietrowski’s colorful piece offered a cheerful reprieve for those driving along a dark and dreary highway in Allston. Displayed on a 30-foot by 45-foot screen overlooking the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90), her vibrant work lit up the commute for passing drivers.

“You could see it from way down the highway … I was thrilled they picked me,” she said.

Photo courtesy of wgbh.org

Before becoming an artist, Pietrowski’s path took many turns, each shaped by a desire to explore, and to help others.

“I like to say I’ve had a multi-level career,” she said.

Her education started at Bridgewater State (then College), where she initially studied history. Back then she went by “Mary,” later changing it to Mai Mai, a family nickname she liked better.

As an undergraduate, Pietrowski lived in an apartment in the town center and walked to campus for class.

“I wanted to be a psychology major, but they didn’t have it at first,” Pietrowski said. “Then they included it after my first year and I switched. I was happy because I wanted to be a social worker.”

After graduating, she began a career with the Massachusetts Department of Public Welfare (now the Department of Transitional Assistance) and worked as a caseworker for child services, putting that goal into practice.

She stayed there for six years before moving on to a successful career in the high-tech industry while earning an MBA. Pietrowski worked as a technical consultant before moving into marketing.

Drawn to new opportunities, in 1996 she capitalized on the booming internet market and built an online women’s bookstore.

“This was before Amazon and Barnes & Noble had a website. Once they launched, it became a tough market and my little bookstore couldn’t compete,” Pietrowski said.

She pivoted again, moving into working in marketing within the medical field. She helped to create programs like MammoSite, a website that provides women with information about breast radiation treatment.

While the work was enjoyable, she found herself wanting a new kind of challenge – one that would take her in an entirely new direction. In 2014, she went online and found a painting class at the Danforth Art Museum School, taught by Margaret Gerding.

“I had never really painted before, except as a kid in school,” Pietrowski said.

She admitted the first class was intimidating, but through Gerding’s guidance, she slowly found her footing.

“She was really encouraging. A lot of teachers don’t give you feedback, or they correct you, but she told me I was a natural at composition and a colorist; to not let anyone talk me out of using color,” Pietrowski said.

The advice paid off. Today, Pietrowski is a member of the SoWa Artists Guild, which many consider to be the soul of Boston’s art scene. She has been featured in galleries throughout New York and Massachusetts, and her artwork is also part of private collections in France, Switzerland, and across the United States.

“I like art because art makes people better. It’s for the same reasons I went into social work: to help people. Art can be therapy, too,” she said.

Pietrowski isn’t sure if she will switch careers again, but she recently took up gardening and has started her own home garden filled with medicinal plants.

“I’m a lifelong learner,” she said.

She encourages current 91��Ƶ students to branch out, and not to worry so much about what their career should look like, but instead to be curious.

“Some people have a career for their whole life, and that’s great... but I’ve always been someone who is ready for something new. I would encourage students to try new things,” Pietrowski said. “I think it’s important to follow up on the things you’re interested in. That’s always been my mindset. You never know what’s coming next; you really don’t.”

Do you have a 91��Ƶ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu

Some people have a career for their whole life, and that’s great... but I’ve always been someone who is ready for something new. I would encourage students to try new things.I think it’s important to follow up on the things you’re interested in. That’s always been my mindset. You never know what’s coming next; you really don’t.

Mai Mai Pietrowski, ’73

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