Regis College announces that it has selected Jim O’Connell, MD, President of Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP), as the 2025 Shining Example Award recipient for his extraordinary contributions to healthcare and social justice. Dr. O’Connell’s lifelong commitment to providing compassionate medical care for the homeless population embodies the values of Regis and its founders, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Boston. He will be honored at the Let It Shine Gala on Oct. 29, at the Four Seasons Boston Hotel.
Since founding BHCHP in 1985, Dr. O’Connell has dedicated his career to delivering high-quality healthcare to Boston’s most vulnerable residents. His pioneering work has led to innovative programs, including the nation’s first medical respite care model, which ensures that individuals experiencing homelessness receive appropriate post-hospitalization care. Through his leadership, BHCHP has set the standard for homeless healthcare programs nationwide, providing lifesaving medical services to thousands each year.
“Dr. Jim O’Connell’s decades of selfless work is a powerful testament to the impact of compassionate, person-centered care,” said College President Antoinette Hays, PhD, RN. “His leadership and advocacy for society’s most vulnerable mirror the values that define a Regis education—justice, empathy, and service. We are honored to recognize Dr. O’Connell for his profound contributions to healthcare and for embodying in action the spirit of the Sisters of St. Joseph.”
Dr. O’Connell’s impact extends beyond direct patient care. His groundbreaking research, advocacy, and policy work have shaped national conversations on homelessness and healthcare. He has authored numerous publications and is the subject of the New York Times Best Seller Rough Sleepers: Dr. Jim O’Connell’s Urgent Mission to Bring Healing to Homeless People by Tracy Kidder. Through his work, he has challenged systemic barriers and advanced policies that improve access to medical care for underserved populations.
“I’m deeply honored to be recognized by Regis College, an institution that understands the transformative power of care, education, and service,” said Dr. O’Connell. “The university’s commitment to preparing students who lead with compassion and advocate for equity aligns closely with the mission of Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program. Together, we affirm the dignity of every person and the importance of meeting people where they are—with respect, empathy, and unwavering support.”
Since its inception, the Let It Shine Gala has raised nearly $6.5 million for student scholarships, expanding access to higher education for students with financial need. The 2025 Let It Shine Gala will be a night of inspiration, featuring a formal dinner, student scholar testimonials, and heartfelt tributes to this year’s honoree.
Sponsorship opportunities are available now, and individual tickets will go on sale in September. For more information on the event, please visit the 2025 Let It Shine Gala website at alumni.regiscollege.edu/letitshine.