Beacons Magazine Fall 2023

A magazine for UMass Boston alumni & friends

In this edition of Beacons magazine, we share stories of alumni who explored the intellectual universe while at UMass Boston and discovered what brings them joy and passion in life.

Our cover story highlights the university's New Balance Institute for Innovative Leadership in Sport, an exciting new initiative of our New Balance Sport Leadership & Administration program. New Balance has invested $15 million to endow these programs, which are positioning our Beacons for pioneering roles as sports professionals and change agents. Student interest has skyrocketed, in part because SLA and the institute marry the passion of sports with social responsibility and equity.

Read All 2023 Stories

The Game-Changers

Through a newly expanded partnership, UMass Boston and New Balance are preparing the next generation of sports industry leaders.

Where the Heart Is

From curating delightful seaside lodgings to supporting community care, Anne Hajjar ’90, G’95 has an affinity for creating the feeling of home away from home.

Meows the Time

In his new film, Crazy Cat Lady, Garrett Clancy ’88 chronicles the tireless (and heartwarming) work of dedicated volunteers addressing the feral cat crisis.

Montage of Krystle Campbell and runners.

Going the Distance

Founded in 2013 in memory of UMass Boston student Krystle Campbell, the Run for Krystle marathon team has built a legacy of camaraderie and hope in the face of tragedy.

Read Going the Distance

From the Hub to the Hill

With the newly launched Barron Congressional Internship program, Matt Barron ’86 is opening doors of opportunity on Capitol Hill for UMass Boston students.

Read from Hub to the Hill

Departments

Your Take

Who was your favorite UMass Boston professor and why?

The Tea

Residence Halls Named for Dr. J. Keith and Angela Motley.

Student Q&A: Soonbee Kwon ’25

"An affordable education and access to a diverse learning environment was what attracted me to UMass Boston."

Did You Know?

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at UMass Boston is a membership-based community of adults aged 50 and older who enjoy learning and spending time with like-minded people.

Class Notes

Interdisciplinary street artist Rixy Fernandez ’19 recently unveiled her newest art piece—a bird-themed mural entitled Fly, Like You.

In Memoriam

It has saddened us to learn of the passing of the following members of the UMass Boston community since our last issue.