Bay Path’s Leary Honored

HOLYOKE — The American Heart Association honored Carol A. Leary, President of Bay Path College, at the recent Pioneer Valley Heart Ball.
The annual event, held at the Log Cabin in Holyoke, raised more than $130,000.

Leary received the “Heart of Gold” Award, given annually to a corporation or an individual in the corporate community who through his or her giving and support enhances the quality of life for many, and because of this generosity has played a significant role in advancing the mission of the American Heart Association, Northeast Affiliate.

Leary was selected for her leadership as chair of the American Heart Assoc. Pioneer Valley Heart Walk in 2004. Under her direction, the Walk surpassed all prior records raising more than $138,000.

Celebrating her 10th year as president of Bay Path, Leary has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the 2002 Woman of the Year award from the Women’s Partnership, Affiliated Chamber of Commerce; 2002 Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters, Saba University School of Medicine; 2001 Italian Women’s Club Annual award; 1998 Y.W.C.A. Women of Achievement award; and the 1998 Pioneer Valley Women of Distinction award, Pioneer Valley Girl Scout Council.

Active in the community, she currently serves as chair of the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts and is a member of the Economic Development Council as well as the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield. She also serves on the board of directors of MassMutual Financial Group, the Frank Stanley Beveridge Foundation, of United Bank, and the Board of the Women’s College Coalition.