President John Denning, C.S.C., Offers His Thoughts on Conquering Fear

Good afternoon to the students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends gathered here today as we celebrate the start of this new academic year—full of promise, opportunity, and growth. 

I offer my heartfelt welcome to all—whether you are a returning member of our cherished community, a transfer student exploring new horizons, or a first-year student from the incoming Class of 2028—one of the largest and most diverse classes in the College’s storied history. 

To our seniors from the Class of 2025, this is your time. Just three years ago, you sat where our new students are today, ready to begin your own college journey. Now, you stand as leaders and mentors, guiding others while embodying what it truly means to be a compassionate and curious Skyhawk. 

I want to extend special thanks to Senior Class President Guilherme Vaz for choosing a multi-purpose shovel as your class symbol. This versatile tool is a powerful reminder that we all can adapt and rise to the challenges we encounter with courage and determination. 

Seventy-six years ago, members of the Congregation of Holy Cross opened the doors to Donahue Hall with a vision to not only educate minds, but to also awaken hearts. In that time, our community has flourished. Today, we have over 30,000 alumni leading lives of purpose and impact across the globe. You are now a part of that incredible legacy. 

Many of these alumni are available to you as mentors and advisors to support you as you chart your own career path. A special thank you to an extraordinary alum with us today, Cicily Shaw, president of the Alumni Council, who presented this year’s Class Pins. 

Of course, we would not have extraordinary alumni if it wasn’t for our incredible faculty to educate them. Congratulations to Professor Bob Spencer on receiving the Louise F. Hegarty Award for Excellence in Teaching and for always inspiring, engaging and supporting students. 

At the start of any new venture, especially a new academic year, we all experience many thoughts and emotions as we set our hopes and goals for the year ahead. Thank you to the 2023 Hegarty winner Professor Rob Rodgers for reminding us to get out of our comfort zone. 

The desire to stay in a place of comfort stems from our fear of the unknown. As Blessed Basil Moreau, who founded the Congregation of Holy Cross in 1837, said “Nothing is more opposed to the maxims of the Gospel and the spirit of your vocation than fear; nothing is more capable of paralyzing the good which has been so auspiciously begun.” 

By facing your fears, you transform it into courage, strength and resiliency. Know that Stonehill College is a safe and supportive place to practice conquering your fears and building these important character values. Faculty and staff will help every step of the way, but you all must act—by making your voice heard in the classroom, participating in activities, and serving the community. 

I pray that you heed Professor Rodgers’ advice to explore fearlessly and joyfully. Take advantage of every opportunity—both those that are offered to you and those you create yourself. In doing so, you will not only discover the world around you—you will uncover the depths of who you are and the purpose you are called to fulfill.

May Mary, Queen of the Summit, bless you with her wisdom and love in the year ahead. And may God bless you and Stonehill College always.