President of Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, Dr. Jim O’Connell Honored
Raising over $730,000 for scholarships to benefit its students in the greatest of need, Regis held its annual Let It Shine Gala on Oct. 29, at the Four Seasons Hotel Boston. More than 220 alumni, donors, and community members attended the event to celebrate the transformative impact of a Regis education and honor Dr. Jim O’Connell with the Shining Example Award for his extraordinary contributions to healthcare and social justice. 
This year’s gala was especially meaningful as it marked President Antoinette Hays’, PhD, RN, final Let It Shine Gala before her retirement in June 2026, capping more than four decades of extraordinary leadership at Regis.
Guests heard from students and President Hays about the transformational power of a Regis education to empower students to become compassionate change agents who make a meaningful impact in their communities.
"What makes Regis extraordinary isn’t just our beautiful campus or our outstanding faculty, staff, and students—it’s the transformation that happens when brilliant minds meet compassionate hearts,” said President Hays. “Our students are driven by passion and purpose, becoming leaders who fight for those who cannot fight for themselves. Tonight, we celebrate someone who embodies that very spirit—Dr. Jim O’Connell."
Dr. O’Connell, founding president of Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, has dedicated nearly four decades to serving the most vulnerable populations in Boston. Through his pioneering work, he has created innovative models of care, restored dignity to countless lives, and inspired others to lead with compassion and courage.
Following President Hays’ remarks, attendees were inspired by pre-med student speaker Colleen Curran ’25, who shared her personal story of how scholarship support made her education at Regis possible:
“Scholarships didn’t just make it financially possible for me to attend Regis—they opened doors to opportunities that nurtured my curiosity and passion, preparing me not only for medical school, but also to be a person who advocates for and uplifts others,” said Curran.
Since its launch in 2016, the Let It Shine Gala has raised more than $7 million for student scholarships, providing vital support to generations of Regis students. 
“As we approach the university’s centennial in 2027, Regis stands at a defining moment—celebrating 100 years of academic excellence, service, and leadership,” said President Hays. “Let’s make tonight not just a celebration of Regis—but the launch of our next century of impact. The future is watching. Our students are counting on us. The world is waiting. Let’s shine together like never before.”
The evening was hosted by Sue Brady Hartigan, with lively auctioneering by Freddy Murphy, creating an inspiring and celebratory atmosphere for all attendees. The evening celebrated the generosity and commitment of Regis alumni, donors, and friends, whose support continues to empower the next generation of compassionate leaders. 
The Shining Example Award, presented to Dr. O’Connell, was designed by Nancy Schön, renowned sculptor of Make Way for Ducklings, who also attended the gala.
The evening included a special video message from U.S. Senator Edward J. Markey, who could not attend in person.
“Dr. Jim O’Connell’s lifelong commitment to caring for unhoused and underserved communities is extraordinary,” said Markey. “He has brought dignity, healing, and compassion to countless lives, reflecting the very principles of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Boston—service without distinction, and care for all of God’s creations.”