December 2025 Edition

Beth Hawley '85 Named 2026 Parade Marshal by the Springfield St. Patrick's Parade Committee

Beth Hawley, the principal of St. Thomas the Apostle School in West Springfield, has been named the 2026 Parade Marshal by the Springfield St. Patrick’s Parade Committee. The awards were announced at a ceremony at Nathan Bill’s Restaurant in Springfield, Monday, December 8.

Elms College Alumni Recognized in Palmer High School Athletics Hall of Fame

Joe Ferry ’08 with Don LaValley, Elms’ first-ever baseball coach

The Palmer High School Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2025 proudly includes two Elms College alumni, highlighting the lasting impact of Elms graduates both on and off campus. The induction ceremony took place on October 18, 2025, celebrating outstanding athletic achievement and community pride.

Among those honored was Joe Ferry ’08, a Palmer High School Class of 2004 graduate and a member of the Elms Baseball team from 2004–2008. Ferry was part of the first-ever Elms baseball team, competing for four seasons and helping to lay the foundation for the program’s future success.

Also inducted was Brittany North '21, recognized for her accomplishments in swimming and field hockey at Palmer High School. Brittany was unable to attend the ceremony as she was celebrating her wedding that day. Congratulations, Brittany!

We congratulate Joe, Brittany, and all members of the Palmer High School Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2025 on this well-deserved recognition.

Father Mark Stelzer Speaks of Finding Hope in the Midst of Darkness During Advent

Father Mark Stelzer—chaplain, professor of humanities, and special assistant to the President for Catholic Identity at the College of Our Lady of the Elms—offered a special Advent reflection for the staff of the Diocese of Springfield on Wednesday, December 10, at the Bishop Marshall Center. As Father Mark is also the pastor of St. Mary's Parish in Hampden, he spoke thoughtfully about navigating anxiety, grief, and moments of darkness during Advent, acknowledging the tension between real-life struggles and the season’s call to joy.

Bus Trip to New York City

On Saturday December 6, alumni, staff, faculty, and friends came together for a festive day trip to New York City, where the holiday spirit was in full force. Attendees enjoyed time to explore the city at their own pace whether they were shopping, attending shows, or just soaking in the seasonal sights. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this holiday tradition and helped make it another great trip! Also, huge congratulations to Brianna Zemrock, Elms College's Annual Fund Specialist, who got engaged on the trip!!!! 

Breakfast with Santa

On Sunday, December 14, families arrived to a snowy campus for a magical morning at Breakfast with Santa. From hands-on crafts and bear building, to writing letters to Santa and enjoying a special reading of The Polar Express by Dr. Dumay, the morning was full of smiles and Christmas spirit. Thank you to everyone who helped create such a joyful and meaningful holiday experience for our alumni community. 

Seeking Nominations:

Sr. Margaret James McGrath Distinguished Alumni Award

Do you know an alum whose life and work truly embody the Elms College mission and our core values of Faith, Community, Excellence, and Justice?

We invite you to nominate an individual whose leadership, service, or professional achievements have made a lasting impact on their community or field.

Nominations for the Distinguished Alumni Award are open through January 20, 2026.

The selected honoree will be formally recognized during Reunion on June 6, 2026.

In this season of giving, please remember our Elms College Students.

When you make a gift to the Annual Fund, your contribution, regardless of size, plays a special role in supporting and enhancing the experience of our Elms College students. Your generosity leads to limitless possibilities.

Jill Perry '21 '23, Assistant Director of Alumni Engagement

Email: Perryj@elms.edu

Phone: (413) 265- 2388