Seven Holy Cross Employees Honored for Outstanding Service

WORCESTER, Mass. – Seven employees of the College of the Holy Cross have received the 2009 Claire B. Burns Awards. The awards program, now in its twelfth year, was established and endowed in 1997 by Donal J. Burns ’49 in honor of his wife, Claire, an alumna of the Class of 1990. The awards are presented annually to non-exempt employees of the College, currently working or retired, who in the fulfillment of their responsibilities have demonstrated, fostered and promoted the spirit of family which is a treasured characteristic of the Holy Cross Community.

As part of the Claire B. Burns Awards Program, Walter LeBlanc received The Rev. William J. O’Halloran, S.J., Award. The award was established last year to honor Fr. O’Halloran’s long years of service to the College, from 1963-2008; his closeness to non-exempt employees; and his contributions to the Claire B. Burns Employee Award Program. During his tenure with the College, Fr. O’Halloran served as chair of the psychology department, assistant chaplain, rector of the Jesuit Community, trustee, vice president of the College, and special assistant to the president.

The recipients, all from the Worcester area, were honored at a banquet on March 24.

The recipients are: Christopher M. Booth, of Spencer, has worked in physical plant/building services as a custodian since 1992.

Mary J. Boucher, of Worcester, has worked in public safety as a dispatcher since 1979.

John W. Brosnihan, of Worcester, has worked in physical plant/grounds as a foreperson since 1976.

Carol A. Johnson, of Auburn, has worked in the controller’s office as a payroll coordinator since 1978.

Walter R. LeBlanc, of Worcester, has worked in dining services as a sous chef since 1982.

Frances D. Milionis, of Paxton, has worked in financial aid as an administrative assistant since 1986.

Alice E. Swett, of Worcester, has worked in development as an assistant since 1976.

In addition, 51 employees were recognized for perfect attendance over the past year, including William Breault, who has received the award for the past 25 consecutive years.  Breault, of Worcester, has worked in physical plant/building services since 1976.

Eighty employees were also recognized for years of service to the College.