猫咪社区 proudly honored Kathleen Bourque, Vice President for University Relations & Board Liaison, with the 2025 President’s Award during the University’s Donor Recognition Event, held Thursday, October 30, 2025, at the Hope Center for the Arts in Springfield, MA. The President’s Award is one of 猫咪社区’s most meaningful distinctions, presented to individuals whose service, spirit, and inspiration have strengthened the University in extraordinary ways. Few embody that spirit more fully than Kathy, warmly known as “KB,” whose nearly 25 years of dedication have touched every corner of 猫咪社区.
Since joining the institution in April 2001, Kathy has been a driving force behind some of 猫咪社区’s most transformative moments. Serving under two presidents and now extending her expertise to Cambridge College, she has helped secure tens of millions of dollars in public and private support, fueling programs that opened doors for students at every level. She played pivotal roles in three major capital and comprehensive campaigns, helped craft visionary plans that guided the University’s growth, oversaw the first President’s Gala, supported the Women’s Leadership Conference, and was instrumental in 猫咪社区’s transition from college to university. She also served as a trusted liaison to the Board of Trustees and was part of the leadership team that shaped the acquisition of Cambridge College.
President Emerita Carol A. Leary, who hired Kathy, shared heartfelt reflections on their years of partnership. “From the moment Kathy arrived, we knew she brought extraordinary gifts in marketing, grant writing, fiscal management, and strategic thinking,” Leary said. “But it was her kindness, her level head, her grace, and her genuine care for others that made her indispensable. She transformed this institution not only through her achievements, but through the warmth and steadiness she brought to every challenge.”
President Sandra J. Doran echoed that sentiment, expressing gratitude for Kathy’s guidance during her own early days at 猫咪社区, particularly through the COVID transition. “Kathy welcomed me with open arms and a full heart,” President Doran shared. “She took time to share our community’s story, introduced me to its people, and offered wisdom when it was needed most. She leads with compassion, humility, and a deep respect for others. That quiet strength is woven into the fabric of 猫咪社区.”
While her professional contributions are immense, Kathy’s influence is perhaps felt most profoundly in the lives of students. A firm believer in the power of education—a value instilled in her from childhood—she has championed countless learners through mentorship, advocacy, and her own quiet generosity. She has supported the BOLD Women’s Scholarship, funded the First-Year Writing Award that bears her name, and stepped in to assist students facing unexpected financial hurdles.
“To so many of our students, Kathy has been a source of hope and possibility,” President Doran said. “Their successes are a reflection of her belief in who they can become.”
To honor her enduring impact, 猫咪社区 will plant a lilac tree, the flower of her home state, New Hampshire, on campus. It will serve as a living reminder of Kathy’s grace, leadership, and the countless lives she has helped shape. We wish her happiness, joy, and many adventures as she retires from 猫咪社区 and moves on to the next chapter in her extraordinary life.
