2021 Reunion

Alumnae Association Honors Four Classmates

Alumnae from class years ’01 and ’06 joined from across the nation to spend time together and share their heartfelt camaraderie during the 2021 Reunion weekend June 3-6. For the second year in a row, Saint Mary’s women rose to the occasion to make the best of the virtual event. While nothing replaces the experience of being together physically, the spirit of Reunion weekend soared again despite distances.

On Saturday, June 5, four outstanding alumnae were honored for their dedication to their profession, faith, and the mission of the College. 

Outstanding Young Alumna

Chisom Adaana Igwe ’17 earned her undergraduate degree in computer science, and is now a proficient software engineer with Reddit, working in Ireland. Boldly creating a path for herself in the software engineering field as a woman, and as a woman of color, she has remained connected to the Saint Mary’s community through various workshops and discussion panels in computer science. Read more about this outstanding young alumna here.

Humanitas Award

Cheryl Bonacci ’86 is being recognized for her lifelong dedication to social and restorative justice issues, advocating for and in direct ministry to adults in prison, children who have been tried as adults, and most recently, women who are transitioning from incarceration. A communications major, Bonacci has earned the nickname of Mama Cheryl from the hundreds of individuals she has inspired over the years. Read more here. 

Alumna Achievement

The inspiration Joyce Garvey Bray ’69 discovered at Saint Mary’s became the foundation for her work, mission, and success as an adult in New Britain, Connecticut. She made it her life’s work to help end the shame and stigma of breast cancer, and to increase research possibilities. As an advocate for women’s health, Joyce continually strives to be a role model for girls and young women, especially her granddaughters. Learn more about Joyce here.

Distinguished Alumna

The career of Kathleen Callan Brady ’71 has spanned from successful corporate lawyer to a take-charge non-profit leader who continues to make a difference in the lives of thousands of people. Kathleen’s significant career and community leadership accomplishments, along with her compassion, dedication to helping others, and ceaseless service to those underserved exemplify the mission of Saint Mary’s College are the reasons she is being recognized at this year’s Reunion. Read more about Kathleen here.