Holy Cross Announces New Assistant Director of Government and Community Relations

The College of the Holy Cross has announced the hiring of Matthew T. Kennis as the assistant director of the office of government and community relations, a new position.

Kennis will work under the direction of Edward M. Augustus, Jr., who has been director of government and community relations since March 2011.

Most recently, Kennis worked as a legislative specialist with the Massachusetts Teachers Association where he helped implement the division’s legislative and political strategies. Prior to that, he served as the community services director for housing, homelessness, and welfare initiatives in Augustus’ office during his state senate term from 2007-08. In addition, Kennis worked in the office of District 3 U.S. Rep. James P. McGovern (D-Worcester), and with Policy Network in London.

“Matt Kennis is a Worcester native and has developed many relationships with community members and local organizations that will help him to be a great link for Holy Cross students to opportunities in the City,” says Augustus. 

At Holy Cross his responsibilities will include supporting the overall and ongoing work of the office of government and community relations, with special responsibility for forging and fostering strategic and mission-oriented community partnership opportunities for students in the Greater Worcester community.

“It’s great to be back in Worcester,” says Kennis. “Holy Cross is a major contributor to the City of Worcester and I am happy to be a part of its mission. I look forward to building on the College's relationship with the City.” 

Kennis earned his B.S. in political science from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and his M.S. in public administration from the University of Massachusetts, Boston.