Ted Kennedy

I was sad to learn of the passing of Ted Kennedy. I've always admired his work ethic, empathy, and the genuine concern he had for those less fortunate. I especially admired his dedication to the important issue of education. Kennedy made it one of his priorities to work towards ensuring high quality education for all students. Kennedy was a main contributor to the creation of such programs as TRIO and GEAR UP.

Kennedy also worked to help make Higher Education more affordable. Kennedy is credited with helping to create the Pell Grant Program, and the Direct Lending Program. Millions of students who did not have the economic means to pay for college, have directly benefited by Kennedy's work. Kennedy's tireless effort to help low-income, first generation students, receive a high quality college education is something I personally admire. I was one of those students so I can personally attest to the impact his work can have.

Kennedy has also been a part of Stonehill's history. In 1964 he received an honorary degree from Stonehill. Since then, Kennedy has returned to campus on several occasions. He will be missed but as he famously said in his 1980 Democratic Convention speech, "The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream will never die."

To view a photo snapshot of Kennedy's various visits to Stonehill, click here