Lynn's Story

Over 30 years ago, I was a high school dropout and a teenage runaway. After years of living what I thought was “the good life” on my own, I wanted to accomplish something more meaningful with my life, so I enlisted in the Air Force. My parents were beaming with pride and they were also very grateful to our government for straightening me out!

After basic training, I attended vocational school. I did not think about furthering my education as I was busy doing well as a leader in the retail/restaurant industry. I did, however, venture into a corporate role at MassMutual, where I am today.

Early on in my 20-year career with MassMutual, a trusted mentor stressed the potential value of me obtaining a college degree as I considered pursuing a formal leadership role. Because it had been so many years since I was in any type of formal learning atmosphere, and I did not have the best track record in education, I was fearful of attending college-level classes. I researched many local educational providers, and I chose Bay Path because of its size and ability to offer personalized support to its students.

I have faced many important decisions in my life, and choosing Bay Path was definitely one of the best! I attended the One Day Saturday program and graduated in 2011. Besides achieving a Bachelor’s Degree, I gained more confidence, acquired business knowledge, and developed a strong community with my Bay Bath Sisterhood. I felt empowered to be BOLD and pursue a Master’s Degree. There was only one place to achieve this next milestone - Bay Path of course!

Again, I was still fearful to challenge myself at the graduate level, but many faculty in the MBA program helped ensure my success. I can honestly say that I have never worked so hard in my life to achieve a goal. When I walked across the stage in 2013 to receive my Graduate diploma – I practically ripped it right out of President Leary’s hands. I was so proud of myself!

A few years later, I considered how to give back to Bay Path because of its significant impact on my life. So, I joined the Alumni Association Council to offer my time, talent and treasure to support alumni engagement and current students. I was honored to serve as the Council’s President and University Board Trustee from 2017-2020. These roles elevated my understanding of what is involved in planning for and executing on fulfilling the University’s mission, along with the challenges of increasing alumni engagement levels. I quickly learned that Bay Path students need incredible financial support to complete their degrees. I witnessed firsthand the challenges that deserving students face when critical financial need becomes a roadblock to finishing their education.

This motivated me to increase my financial support by allocating a planned gift to the school.

Knowing I will be able to assist students long after I am gone through a legacy gift makes me feel very good! I want to help remove financial barriers for women striving to achieve their educational goals. I do not seek accolades, yet I am extremely honored to have received the first “One Day Woman of Distinction” award for my service to the University. It was truly inspiring to collaborate so closely with Council Members, Board Trustees, Faculty, and Administration who demonstrated a firm resolve to support this amazing institution.

I share this same resolve - to support my alma mater in any way possible. I believe in the mission work and it is an honor to encourage other alumni to join me. There is much to be thankful for in this holiday season and I am most grateful for Bay Path! I wish you all health, happiness, and good will.