“Human life runs its course in the metamorphosis between receiving and giving.” That quote, by Johan Wolfgang von Goethe, kicked off the annual COMMunity Awards Night that honored student success and leadership. This year’s theme, Metamorphosis, spoke to the transformation Bay Path students go through during their college experience. “We all start as young, naive individuals,” shared Student Newsroom Editor Zoë Naglieri-Prescod ’20. “But as we grow and learn throughout life, especially during our college years, we transform into the people we want to become.”
The evening began with a fashion show filled with students showcasing their own metamorphosis and highlighting their personal history through their wardrobe choices, with many including handmade clothing pieces. “Your college experience is truly about your own metamorphosis. We are here to support your transformation, individually and collectively,” said Dr. Melissa Morris-Olson, Bay Path's Provost and VP for Academic Affairs. as she addressed the crowd from the podium. “Relish with pride the steps you have taken for yourself and this community.”
Over forty students were recognized as Bay Path faculty and staff took to the stage to share the good work being done by students all over campus and within the larger community. Bay Path’s Alumni Association Council President Lynn Pellerano ’11 G’13 was also honored for her impact on and support of Bay Path students, as were Channel 22 anchors Ciara Speller and Hector Molina, and Longmeadow Community Television’s Executive Director and Bay Path alumna Tracey Durant G’19. The Springfield Museums were also honored for their work with Bay Path student internships.
“You go through metamorphosis multiple times in your life,” Molina shared as he accepted his award. Hearing your stories helps me to tell mine.”
Students and alumni model clothing that represents their own metamorphosis.
Both students and community members received awards.
Kevin Barlowski presents an award to the evening's largest group of award winners, the cast of The Crucible.
COMMunity Awards Night 2019 was powered by the Bay Path Student Newsroom, the COMMunity Awards Night is sponsored by the Bay Path Communications Club, NAMIC New England, Sullivan Career and Life Planning Center, Bay Path's School of Liberal Studies and Undergraduate Communications, and a host of collaborators.
