By Dave Eisenberg

Worcester State kicked off Homecoming Weekend 2025 in October 2025 by conferring the Distinguished Alumni Awards upon five truly exceptional individuals. The awardees included: an educator who empowers students to think beyond the classroom; a prominent business owner opening doors for women in a male-dominated field; the president and CEO of a leading human services nonprofit that serves individuals and families with complex needs; a former faculty member who helped make Worcester State what it is today; and a decorated U.S. Marine officer credited with helping hundreds flee Taliban rule.

Presented biennially, these awards represent the highest non-degree recognition the university bestows on alumni. Selected after a competitive nomination and review process by the Alumni Association’s Advisory Board and university representatives, winners are chosen for excellence in community service, education, professional accomplishment, and service to the university. While the awardees are diverse in their background, passions, and professional pursuits, they do share at least one thing in common: an unwavering commitment to making their communities, and the world, a better place.

Charran Fisher ’02 | Building a better world—literally

Charran Fisher ’02 founded Fisher Contracting Corporation in 1998. Since, the firm has become a major player in the Massachusetts business community, noted for its involvement in the construction of Polar Park, home of the Worcester Red Sox, and Encore, a popular hotel and casino outside Boston.

At the same time, Fisher has leveraged her entrepreneurial success to become a community leader. As a woman and minority in a male-dominated field, she has opened doors for others who are underrepresented in construction, and inspired them to pursue careers in the field. She also sits on the boards of several local and state chambers of commerce, subcontractor associations, economic councils, and boys and girls clubs, advancing the interests of communities across the Commonwealth.

Accepting the award for Outstanding Volunteer Service to the Community, Fisher noted that she learned the principles at the heart of her work while a student at Worcester State. “The values I learned here—service, compassion, and a commitment to community—have stayed with me and guided everything I’ve done,” she said. “It has shaped how I show up in the world, how I lead, and how I give back.”

Ken Bates ’87 | Leading with a helping hand

Ken Bates ’87 has dedicated his career to supporting individuals and families with complex challenges and needs. 

As president & CEO of Open Sky Community Services, he leads one of the largest human services nonprofits in Central Massachusetts. Under his leadership, Open Sky has grown to employ 1,300 people, who serve constituents across the region with critical services in mental health, developmental and intellectual disabilities, brain injury, substance use, housing and other areas of need. In 2025, Open Sky was named a Top Place to Work by The Boston Globe. 

Accepting the award for Outstanding Professional Achievement, Bates said majoring in urban studies at Worcester State gave him, “the foundation to lead with purpose.” “Through teaching, coaching, and internships at local organizations, I was able to build relationships and gain hands-on experience that still informs my work today. The campus may look different now, but the core values of service, inclusion, and community-building remain as strong as ever.”

Craig Dottin ’94 | Empowering students to think beyond the curriculum

As an educator, Craig Dottin ’94, M.Ed. ’02, M.Ed. ’14 works to ensure every student succeeds, both in and out of the classroom. 

In his current role with Worcester Public Schools, he’s responsible for identifying internship opportunities for all students. Previously, as principal of Vernon Hill Elementary School, he implemented a financial literacy program, giving young learners early exposure to money management and career planning. In 2023, his advocacy for young women’s education and access to resources earned him the Smart Advocate Award from Girls Inc. of Worcester.

Dottin’s passion for education is deeply personal. While accepting the award for Outstanding Achievement in Education, he said Worcester State’s Office of Multicultural Affairs provided him with the support he needed to thrive, adding it gave him, “the kind of guidance every student deserves, especially those from marginalized communities.” He continued: “By building programs that provide mentorship and a strong sense of community, we ensure every student can succeed and know they are never alone.”

Paul Davis ’57 | Innovating right here on campus

Paul Davis ’57, M.Ed. ’59, Ed.D. earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Worcester State thanks to the GI Bill, which provided education for veterans. Ever since, he’s been a pillar of the university community, as both a faculty member and generous supporter.

Known for his innovative contributions to the university’s educational programs, Davis played a pivotal role in the development of the university’s audio-visual and media departments. Under his leadership, they evolved into the Communications Department, which continues to thrive today. Later, with his wife of more than 50 years, he established the Paul ’57, ’59 and Barbara ’71, ’73 Davis Scholarship, awarded annually to a full-time undergraduate student residing in Worcester County. He retired as professor emeritus in 1992.

“I am so proud to have been a part of the history of Worcester State, and feel that my efforts helped build the institution to what it is today,” he said, accepting the award for Outstanding Service to Alma Mater. “I loved teaching, and I’ve loved interacting and relating with the students and faculty here.”

Omer Rafiq ’14 | Building a life of service

Omer Rafiq ’14 is a decorated marine officer and the director of an AI startup focused on national security. For this work, Worcester State recognized him with the Outstanding Young Alumnus Award. Read his full story here.

The post Celebrating the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award Winners appeared first on Worcester State Magazine.

Lancer Nation is spreading across the country! The Worcester State Alumni Association was thrilled to host Regional Reconnects in Washington, D.C., and Florida this winter. Now, we’re planning our next stops, and we want to visit your area. 

These gatherings are a fantastic way to reconnect, network, and hear the latest updates from Worcester State—all in a fun, casual setting with fellow alumni. 

We’re hitting the road across New England this summer, and we’re open to any location where Lancers are making their home. 

If you’d like to help bring Worcester State to your region, please reach out to the alumni office at alumni@worcester.edu or 508-929-8141. Let’s reconnect—wherever you are!

The post We’re Bringing Worcester State to You! appeared first on Worcester State Magazine.

Every year, the Alumni Association’s Advisory Board invests in the campus community by awarding grants that bring student-driven ideas to life.

This year, the board gave a total of $10,000 to 14 ӣ����Ƶ campus groups.

Among this year’s recipients, the Asian Cultural “Boba” Club received an $800 grant to enhance its signature Lunar New Year celebration, pictured above. Thanks to the Advisory Board’s support, the club was able to upgrade decorations, offer better prizes, and cover most food costs. The annual event—open to all students and catered by local Vietnamese restaurant Mint Kitchen and Bar—was a resounding success.

“Everyone was coming back for seconds,” said executive board member Justine Mai ’25. The club has seen attendance at the event grow every year, and Mai especially loves the opportunity to share her culture with fellow students. 

Among the other recipients of this year’s Advisory Board grants were the senior class, which received funding for the popular Party on the Eve on the day before Commencement; men’s and women’s track and field, to replace worn-out equipment; the university library, to provide study break treats during finals; and women’s basketball, for its annual Alumni Day.

Grants from the Advisory Board helped the cheerleading team travel to Florida this spring to participate in a national tournament. It helped the Muslim Student Association host memorable Iftar dinners during Ramadan. And it helped the Student Nurses Association purchase MP3 players that simulate auditory hallucinations—a valuable learning tool for future nurses to understand mental illness. 

“The university is so grateful for the Alumni Association’s Advisory Board and its unwavering support for our students,” said Suzanne Nebelung, associate director of alumni relations and engagement. “Through these grants, our students bring their ideas to life, enhance their educational experiences, and build lasting connections with alumni.”

The post Alumni Association Advisory Board Gives $10,000 to Enhance Students’ Experience appeared first on Worcester State Magazine.

Manny Ramirez ’24, M.S. ’26, discovered his creative career path while getting a taste of social media stardom.

Story and Photos By Nancy Sheehan

Manny Ramirez ’24, M.S. ’26, is an Instagram celebrity on campusthanks to his popular Mic’d Up Mondays video series. What started as a simple undergraduate internship project in Student Affairs turned into a budding viral sensation that showcases Ramirez’s easygoing charisma and natural ability to connect with fellow students.

Ramirez is a first-generation college student who, with the support of the Worcester State community, learned to navigate the challenges of higher education and emerged as a campus leader, graduating with a bachelor’s in business administration, management, and operations. Now a graduate assistant in the Office of Inclusive Excellence and Belonging, Ramirez is using his platform to uplift his fellow students.

Mic’d Up Mondays appears at instagram.com/wsureslife and features Ramirez roaming campus with a microphone, asking students about everything from pop culture trivia to rhyming challenges. Students who participate in the video interviews have the chance to win dining dollars. 

Ramirez exudes a warm personality and genuine interest in connecting with others, making the series a must-watch for students each week.

“I never expected it to go this far,” Ramirez said. When he began Mic’d Up Mondays as an undergraduate, “It was more like, ‘Okay, I’m here for an internship and I’m going to do this,’ and then it kind of just took off.” Students now recognize him as he walks around campus with his microphone. Some are more eager than others to participate, and it’s always up to each student to decide whether to talk with him.

Each week revolves around a different theme. One week he might ask, “Where is the green light on a stoplight?” and “In which direction does the sun set?” while another might introduce pop culture trivia: “When did the first High School Musical movie premiere?” and “Which animated movie features the song ‘Let It Go’?”

Ramirez has also approached students wearing headphones to ask what they’re listening to. As his video production skills have grown through his hands-on experience with Mic’d Up Mondays, he’s become more comfortable in front of the camera. By editing the videos each week, he’s developed his creative and technical abilities, too.

Ramirez engages with students in a fun, lighthearted way that resonates with both the campus community and families of students.

“I’ve had people actually recognize me and come up to say they watch my videos,” he said. “It just happens randomly. During the homecoming football game, a mother of a student said, ‘Are you Mic’d Up Mondays? I love watching your videos every week.’ It’s cool to know that it goes beyond just the residents here, that parents and families also see it.”

As the youngest of three and the first in his family to attend college, Ramirez carries the hopes and expectations of his family. He said he harnesses this to motivate himself and to give back to the community. As a resident assistant on campus, for example, he works to foster an inclusive space for students.

While he is the one in front of the camera, he said support of others is critical to the series’ success. Kristen Nelson, director of residence life and student experience, gave Ramirez the idea of doing the series and provided him with a microphone to get started. Sarah Garabedian, a graduate assistant on the residence life marketing team, does the camera work while Ramirez is wielding the mic and then helps with video editing, especially when Ramirez is busy with class, soccer, and other commitments.

Now, as he pursues his master’s degree in business management, Ramirez is exploring job opportunities in marketing and social media, hoping to blend his passions and capitalize on the online influence he has already built.

He said the video series has allowed him to learn more about himself and his capabilities, especially in terms of being comfortable speaking to a (virtual) crowd. He’s also gained confidence in his creativity, and in his ability to dream up engaging content that connects with the campus community. He sees the potential to someday use his video production skills to benefit him in his future career. 

“I’ve learned a lot about how to create interesting content and connect with people through Mic’d Up Mondays,” Ramirez said. “It’s allowed me to develop my creativity and people skills, and it would be great if maybe that could translate to a career in marketing or social media someday.” 

The post Our Resident Influencer appeared first on Worcester State Magazine.

By Aspen Zheng ’24

My four years of study at ӣ����Ƶ were a journey toward becoming an independent adult, a scholar, and, most importantly, an optimistic person. I overcame many obstacles but could not have done so without the guidance, patience, and support of the Worcester State community.

I arrived alone in Worcester, not knowing anyone. My parents were living in China, a 12- to 13-hour time difference. Early in my first year at Worcester State as an English as a foreign language student, I did not do anything other than attend classes and study hard until a roommate talked about applying to be a Resident Assistant (RA). The idea appealed to me as a way to interact more with my peers, develop leadership and problem-solving skills, and serve others. I was not sure if I was capable of being a good RA, as I worried about my ability to communicate effectively. But I overcame my trepidation and gave it a shot.

Fortunately, I was assigned to a room with a returning RA who showed me how to be a good student leader. I learned to embrace the Worcester State community and seek not only knowledge, but support. I gained exposure to different leadership styles from other student leaders: fellow RAs, Presidential Student Ambassadors (PSAs), mentors, and tour guides.

This decision changed my entire Worcester State trajectory, as it opened one door and gave me the keys to many others. In time, I went on to serve as a PAL mentor, campus tour guide, PSA, and entrepreneur ambassador.

The moments I shared with other members of the Worcester State community helped me become who I am today. Dr. Nabin Malakar told me that it was okay to make mistakes and that each has value as a learning opportunity. Dr. Weichu Xu, recognizing that I was not with family, invited me to his home for Thanksgiving dinner. And I received a great deal of encouragement and support from Dr. Jennifer Hood-DeGrenier. I fondly remember conversations with chemistry, biology, and political science department secretaries; being greeted warmly by staff all over campus; and engaging with campus police and other authorities while fulfilling my RA duties.

My parents have tried their best to provide me with educational opportunities and offered the best support they could from afar. I am grateful to them, campus faculty and staff, and my fellow students. All cared for me and helped me to learn and grow.

Worcester State made me feel welcome and connected—not just on campus, but as a member of the greater Worcester community. My role as a health ambassador included door-to-door visits throughout Worcester to deliver hand sanitizer and provide COVID-19 information packets and helping interested Worcester residents register for COVID vaccine appointments.

Worcester State brought me failure, success, tears, disappointment, excitement, happinesses, and love. I am grateful for it all and feel that it has thoroughly prepared me for a confident and focused graduate school experience and an exciting future in service.

Top image: With a grant from the Rosen Cancer Awareness Fund, Aspen Zheng took part in a 2023 summer research program with biology professor Jennifer Hood-DeGrenier. Photo by Matt Wright ’10.

The post My WooState Story: Welcome and Connected appeared first on Worcester State Magazine.

Looking back on my time at Worcester State, I think of all of the fond memories that I made. My mind floods with images of the Student Center buzzing with activity on a typical autumn day or of the studious silence enjoyed on the third floor of the Learning Resource Center. Though they may have been simple, I wish that I realized sooner how impactful those moments and countless others really were.

I transferred to Worcester State after a lukewarm experience studying at a small college near Syracuse, New York. The New York school itself was fine, and I had a strong network of friends in my freshman year, but my time there was largely soured by the social restrictions imposed due to the pandemic that raged on. Admittedly, I also missed being home.

When I moved home to Oxford and started classes on Chandler Street the next fall, I felt indifferent about college. As a commuter student, I usually just drove to campus, attended my classes, then drove home as quickly as possible, except for the occasional lunch at the dining hall. Apart from my coursework, I was a passive member of the community. That was all I wanted from college for about a year and a half.

Things started to change during my junior year. I struck up conversations with my classmates and professors and maintained those connections beyond the classroom. On-campus events, initially an irrelevant part of student life to me, became something that I actually tried to attend. For the first time since becoming a Lancer, I came out of my shell and took risks, both academically and socially.

The more I opened up, the more I realized that I was not alone in my original sentiments about college. I found kindred spirits in other commuter students who shared the experiences that I had, yet managed to become a part of something greater on campus. This inspired me to make the most of my final few semesters at Worcester State.

I applied for a writing internship in the university’s Communications and Marketing Office and landed what turned out to be the most rewarding job I have ever had. As a correspondent for Worcester State news publications, I saw more of the campus than I had in my sophomore and junior years combined. My assignments took me to events that I otherwise never would have attended and introduced me to many of the brilliant minds that make up the Worcester State community. Through this work, I developed a new appreciation for a place that I had spent so much time at, yet knew so little about.

A class trip to Ireland during my final spring break was something that my sophomore-year self never would have envisioned, but when I saw that one of my favorite professors, Dan Hunt, was leading it, I placed my deposit as soon as possible. Seeing Ireland introduced me to an entirely new and exciting culture. I shared this journey with 18 classmates from our course, Ireland in Image and Text, and I now consider those classmates to be friends. It was the perfect ending to a year where I seized every opportunity that was presented to me.

I see how I’ve grown from an indifferent commuter student to an engaged member of the Worcester State community. From observing a historic total solar eclipse on a trip to Vermont led by Professor Andrew Burkhardt, to exploring centuries-old streets abroad with my classmates, to riding around campus in a Kubota with Facilities Assistant Vice President Sandra Olson, Worcester State has provided me with more memories and opportunities than I ever would have expected.

Top image: Paul Davey ’24 takes in the wonder of The Burren in County Clare, Ireland, as part of a university trip during spring break 2024. Courtesy Paul Davey.

The post My WooState Story: Commuter to Community appeared first on Worcester State Magazine.

Saturday, May 11

11:30 a.m. – , President Barry Maloney’s House
A festive brunch honoring the classes of 1964 and 1969 for their 60th and 55th Reunions

Friday, May 17, 2024

10:30 a.m. –

11:30 a.m. – , The Gene J. and Julianne DeFeudis Wellness Center
Join us as we honor our wonderful Golden Graduates—all alumni who graduated 50 years ago or more! We celebrate this delightful group with special recognition of the members from the Classes of 1974, 1969, 1964, and 1959.��

11:30 a.m. –

5:30 p.m. – , Sheehan Hall, Multipurpose Room
Join alumni, faculty, and staff for a fun-filled evening to reconnect with the Psychology Department.

6 p.m. – , Wasylean Patio
Welcome the Class of 2024 into the alumni family at this special Commencement Eve celebration. This casual barbecue event features lawn games, a DJ, cash bar, and more.

Saturday, May 18, 2024

3 p.m.�� – (Game starts at 4:05 p.m.)
Join us at the Shaws 1st Base Bullpen Terrace to celebrate our 50th Reunion and watch the Worcester Red Sox take on the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Enjoy the fun and laughter as you reminisce, rejoice, and reunite to mark 50 years as Worcester State alumni. There will be a BBQ and private cash bar.

Monday, June 3, 2024

9 a.m. – 4 p.m. – Foundation Golf Tournament, Wachusett Country Club & Kettle Brook Golf Club

The post Join us for Spring 2024 alumni events! appeared first on Worcester State Magazine.

His late father, Nick Pennucci Sr., was a legendary figure in the city’s bustling hockey community. He managed the Buffone Skating Arena ice rink on Lake Avenue for more than two decades and was the driving force behind the start of his son’s playing career. “It’s almost like I didn’t have an option,” said Pennucci. “I was always gonna be a rink rat.”

Now, the Worcester State alum is making his own mark on the local hockey scene. Pennucci made headlines in January for his appearance in two games with the Worcester Railers, the city’s ECHL hockey club. The experience was a dream come true for him, and the result of a lifetime of hard work and dedication.

Pennucci learned how to skate on the same rink that his father managed, and he hasn’t given up the sport for a moment since. “From that point on, I just fell in love with it.” Growing up, Pennucci was constantly involved in youth hockey in and around Worcester. He played high school hockey at Saint Peter-Marian and played for a number of travel teams in his adolescence, including the NorthStars and South Shore Kings AAA youth hockey clubs.

After graduating high school in 2017, Pennucci stayed local for college and joined the ӣ����Ƶ men’s hockey team. He looks back on his time with his fellow Lancers as some of his most enjoyable moments playing the sport. “College hockey was the best playing experience of my life,” said Pennucci. “My closest friend group is from my college hockey team.” Pennucci graduated in 2023 with a degree in communication.

Pennucci had a productive and successful playing career at Worcester State. As a forward for the Lancers, he finished with 20 goals and 25 assists across four seasons and appeared in the MASCAC Championship in the 2022-2023 season. When he graduated, he was not yet ready to hang up his skates. “I loved the group of guys I played with, but I knew I wanted to keep going.”

After a summer of training, Pennucci participated in the Worcester Railers training camp in October, 2023. His hometown team was the only one that he tried out for. The experience put him on the team’s radar, but it would be several months before he got the chance to suit up.

Pennucci’s opportunity came on January 5, 2024, when he was offered a contract to play for the Worcester Railers. The team needed a forward with strong physicality and a sound knowledge of the game, which is exactly what he brought to the table. “He’s a very determined hockey player,” said Railers Assistant Coach Bob Deraney. “He’ll do whatever it takes to get to the puck.”

A major selling point for the Railers was Pennucci’s knowledge of the team’s system. Deraney, a longtime coach of collegiate hockey, was the head coach of men’s hockey at Worcester State from 2021 to 2023 and knew that Pennucci was familiar with the style of play that the Railers were looking to execute. “The system that we played at Worcester State was the type of play that Coach Smotherman wanted to play,” said Deraney. “It was a seamless transition for him to go from Worcester State to the Railers.”

Pennucci has played in two games for the Railers, including a 5-4 victory against the Trois-Rivières Lions at Worcester’s DCU Center, an exhilarating back-and-forth contest that ended with the Railers claiming victory in a shootout. The arena, which Pennucci has spent countless hours in as a fan, was packed with familiar faces who were there to see him play. “I looked up into the stands and saw a lot of friends and family in the seats,” said Pennucci. “The nerves kind of dissolved.”

Pennucci is currently an alternate with the team, meaning he does not yet have a permanent roster spot. If he keeps working hard and maintains his determination, Deraney says that a return to the team is always a possibility. “He just has to continue to grow his game, and if he continues to do that, you can see him being back with us,” said Deraney.

In addition to pursuing his own athletic career, Pennucci works to inspire the next generation of hockey players and give something back to the sport he loves. He coaches at the Worcester Ice Center, the local epicenter of hockey for athletes of all ages, where he is the head coach of the Worcester Junior Railers U14 Select Team. “Hockey was my first real passion. I like helping young kids that I see in my situation,” he said. Pennucci spends around 20 hours every week coaching youth hockey.

According to Deraney, the same traits that allow Pennucci to excel as a hockey player make him an effective mentor and leader. “The one thing he’ll do is give those young people entrusted to his care everything he has, every day,” said Deraney. “I think he understands that he’s using the game of hockey to teach life lessons and help these young people grow, not only as hockey players, but as people as well.”

As a Worcester State alumnus, Pennucci remains an active supporter of Lancer men’s ice hockey. He is a frequent guest at team fundraising events, and his contribution of charitable gifts has helped to raise hundreds of dollars for the men’s ice hockey fund. “There is a momentum around fundraising for men’s ice hockey,” said Louise Taylor, director of Gift Planning and Scholarships for University Advancement, “and part of that is because of Nick.”

Pennucci’s recent games with the Railers are only the beginning for him. Whether as a player, coach, or combination of both, he simply cannot foresee a future without hockey in it. “There’s no getting away from it for me,” said Pennucci with a chuckle. “It’s in my blood.”

Photos by Matt Wright ’10

The post From Division III to the DCU, Worcester’s own Nick Pennucci ’23 continues to impress appeared first on Worcester State Magazine.

The university celebrated five outstanding Worcester State alumni with impressive professional and community service accomplishments during a joyful ceremony for the 2023 Distinguished Alumni Awards.

The October 2023 event in the Wellness Center brought together dignitaries and community leaders, including Worcester Mayor Joe Petty and City Councilor Khrystian King, Senator Robyn Kennedy, and members of the university Board of Trustees and Foundation Board of Directors.

“This evening we have an exceptional group of alumni,” said Marina Taylor, chair of the Trustees. “Truly they represent all that it means to be a lifelong Lancer. They are leaders in their communities and in their professions. And above all, they are committed to giving back to those communities and to their alma mater.”

As is customary for the Distinguished Alumni Awards, the award for each recipient was presented by someone who knows the alum well. Following the presentation of the award, each alum also delivers remarks.

Rev. Dr. Gizel Hampton (right) presented Celia Johnston Blue ’00 with the�� Outstanding Volunteer Service to the Community.

Rev. Dr. Gizel Hampton presented Celia Johnston Blue ’00 with the�� Outstanding Volunteer Service to the Community. In 2015, Johnston Blue collaborated with 12 women of color from across Massachusetts to launch the Massachusetts Women of Color Coalition in Worcester. In her current role as president and CEO of MAWOCC, Celia is leading the organization to realize its vision and mission of advocating for the voices of women of color to be heard to address the inequities present in every aspect of their lives.

Hampton described how she first met Celia at a local family church when they were young. “Celia consistently strives to maintain an excellent spirit in all she accomplishes,” Hampton said. “With her experience from humble beginnings and recognizing the disparities in our community at an early age, Celia was determined to make a difference and become an agent of change. I have admired Celia’s tenacity and resolve to serve the disenfranchised in her community and our state.”

Beyond a long record of career and civic accomplishments, Celia’s greatest accomplishment, said Hampton, is her family. “Her husband Joe and daughter Violet are her number one cheerleaders and are often seen at various events actively participating and supporting every step of her journey.”

In her remarks, Johnston Blue described how she came to Worcester State as a non-traditional student and found faculty members were supportive and understanding. “After I graduated I wanted to stay connected with Worcester State and found a way to do just that.”

After forming the Massachusetts Women of Color Coalition, she began collaborating with Worcester State’s Binienda Center for Civic Engagement and worked with President Barry Maloney on recruitment and retention of students of color. She called on the audience to do their part to make the world more inclusive.

“You can do one small act that will make a big difference and that is to ensure people of color and of diverse backgrounds are always in the room and at the decision-making tables when decisions are being made about them and our communities.… We are stronger together.”

Worcester State Dean of Education Dr. Raynold Lewis presented Doherty Memorial High School Assistant Principal Renah Razzaq with the Distinguished Alumni Award for Outstanding Achievement in Education. “As her academic advisor, she shared with me her desire for education and described her experience as a student with interrupted formal education in the West Bank, hiding from place to place in churches and mosques to relocate to a spot where learning/teaching could take place.”

Worcester State Dean of Education Dr. Raynold Lewis presented Doherty Memorial High School Assistant Principal Renah Razzaq with the Distinguished Alumni Award for Outstanding Alumni Achievement in Education.

When the environment became even more dangerous, Renah returned to the US and finished her GED. She transferred to Worcester State from Quinsigamond Community College and went on to earn a master’s degree in secondary administration and leadership. She became head of the math department at Doherty High in 2011 and in 2017 received the Massachusetts State University Alumni Award, given to notable graduates of the state universities. In 2023, she completed her Ph.D.�� in education from Worcester Polytechnic Institute.

“Renah’s journey from hiding in churches and mosques to find a space to learn, with war planes overhead, to assistant principal to holder of a Ph.D. from prestigious WPI chronicles a unique academic odyssey,” Lewis said. “Her persistence and vision stand as an example of the power of desire, and its role in turning dreams into reality.”

Razzaq shared how she came to college as a mother with small children and found Worcester State was committed to accommodating diverse students. “Even during February and April vacations when my children were by my side, I found incredible support from my professors, each of whom granted my requests to have my kids attend classes with me,” she said. “Not a single professor turned me away, reflecting the inclusive and compassionate spirit of Worcester State.”

Communication professor Eric Nichols (right) presented photographer George Annan with the Distinguished Alumni Award for Outstanding Young Alumnus.

Communication professor Eric Nichols presented photographer George Annan with the Distinguished Alumni Award for Outstanding Young Alumnus. Nichols shared how Annan has quickly made a name for himself in Worcester and beyond since he graduated in 2021. He has done assignments for internationally recognized media like The Wall Street Journal and Good Morning America and ad campaigns for Converse, Puma, and Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and has been involved with passion projects like Dialogues, Diasporas, and Detours Through Africa, a group exhibition at the Fitchburg Art Museum.

“Before any of that, George was a member of the Worcester State community,” said Nichols. The two met when George found him in the photo lab in the basement of the Learning Resource Center. “Working in the lab you learn two things: you learn who the students in the photo class are, and everyone else that comes in is completely lost and most likely looking for the mailroom.” George, however, came to learn about photography and went on to become the “go-to lab tech loved by every student,” Nichols said.

“Even after graduating, George still gives back to the WSU photo students and lab,” Nichols said. “It’s for all of his talent, compassion, kindness, and friendship that I am honored to present Goerge with this Outstanding Young Alumnus award.”

Annan recounted spending many hours in the photo lab with Nichols and Professor Brittany Severance. “They instilled in me the self-confidence to achieve anything art related I set out to do and helped me grow into the artist I am today,” he said. “The education I received at Worcester State is something I will never take for granted as it provided me a space where my unique talents and curiosity could be nourished as I am to try my best to represent my family name, hometown, and university in my professional pursuits.”

Worcester State Alumnus Dave Bedard ’74 (right) presented the Distinguished Professional Achievement Award to David Cawley ’74.

Worcester State Alumnus Dave Bedard ’74 presented the Distinguished Professional Achievement Award to David Cawley ’74. Known as “Bear,” Cawley was a four-year starter on the Worcester State football team, served as tri-captain his senior year and was awarded defensive MVP in 1973. “To this day, David is grateful and credits the formation of the WSU football program in 1969 with keeping him interested in college,” Bedard said, until, in Cawley’s words, “the academic interests kicked in during my sophomore year.”

Cawley earned a psychology degree and went on to serve in the US Army in the Department of Neuropsychiatry at Ireland Army Hospital in Fort Knox, Kentucky, and later earned a master’s degree. Over 21 years, Cawley served in senior executive roles in establishing and managing behavioral health management services across the country. In 2000, Cawley co-founded The CawleyJohnson Group in Atlanta, and has become a national leader in providing comprehensive health management and consulting services. In addition, Cawley and his wife, Chris, have been generous benefactors to Worcester State.

“David and Chris are also members of the WSU 1874 Pillar Society, having named WSU in their family trust planning, assuring that their support for Worcester State students continues long into the future,” Bedard said.

Cawley spoke from the heart about his alma mater. “Worcester State has meant a lot to both me and Chris,” he said. “I’m really proud to say I went here.”

Worcester State alumna Rosanne Matulaitis ’65 (right) presented retired educator Maryanne Hammond with the Distinguished Alumni Award for Outstanding Service to Alma Mater.

Worcester State alumni couple Rosanne Matulaitis ’65 and Vincent Matulaitis ’66 presented retired educator Maryanne Hammond ’69, M.Ed. ’72, M.Ed. ’77 with the Distinguished Alumni Award for Outstanding Service to Alma Mater. Hammond has been an ambassador for Worcester State for decades, recently completing 10 years of service on the Board of Trustees, in addition to serving on the Alumni Association’s Advisory Board, Reach and Touch Somebody’s Hand Alumni Council, Class Agents Committee, reunion planning committees, and a number of philanthropic endeavors. She is a member of the President’s Circle Society and a loyal Lancer.

“Even though she was a great educator for all those years, she really strived to become a cheerleader,” Mrs. Matulaitis said. “No matter where you wander, you see Maryanne, she greets you with a big smile and tells you about the wonderful things her alma mater has accomplished…. She is not just a talker, but she is also a doer! When you go to any WSU event, you will see Maryanne.”

Hammond said when she heard she was receiving the award, her first thought was, “I’m the one who should be thanking Worcester State for all it’s done for me. Worcester State gave me the ability to be a good teacher. It’s very special to teach a six-year-old how to read.”

She made a shout-out to her fellow Class of 1969 graduates: “Thank you for letting me hang around with you then. Thank you for letting me hang around with you now.”

Photos by Matt Wright ’10 and video by Andrea Dever, assistant editor for alumni relations.

The post Celebration of Excellence: Worcester State honors its Distinguished Alumni appeared first on Worcester State Magazine.

“This degree does not only belong to me, but it also belongs to my daughter, to my immigrant parents, and to mi gente,” Hernandez said. “I am a proud Latina and I am proud to see that the obstacles I have faced, and continue to face, have not stopped me from moving forward. !Lo logramos!”

Hernandez will apply her graduate degrees to advocate for all students with disabilities and ensure they receive all the necessary services and accommodations that will allow them to succeed. “I especially want to advocate for my culturally and linguistically diverse students to ensure they are evaluated and provided support that takes into account their diverse and complex backgrounds,” she said. “I will use my degree to ensure all students have access to the resources they need to succeed in and out of school.”

—Deborah Alvarez O’Neil

Photo by Matt Wright ’10

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