The atmosphere was festive at this year's retirement celebration, which commemorated 13 employees who retired in the last year. QCC President Dr. Luis Pedraja thanked the retirees for their years of service and encouraged them to enjoy this new period of their lives.
“I admire their dedication and commitment to our shared goal of serving students. You will be missed dearly,” Pedraja remarked, adding that those who donated their retirement gift raised over $1,000 for student scholarships.
Among those celebrated was Manager of Student Resources Bonnie Coleman, whose impact resonates throughout the college community. Dean of Student Affairs Terry Vecchio praised her as someone "loved by pretty much everyone she meets" and highlighted her achievements in expanding student support services. Under Bonnie's leadership, the HomePlate Food Pantry & Resource Center grew from serving 25 students in 2018 to supporting 800 unique students this year. Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society enrollment went from 20 students several decades ago to nearly 900 students today under her guidance.
Lu Costa, who served as Executive Assistant to the President, brought nearly two decades of wisdom and leadership to QCC after starting in 2006.
"While her legacy here is undeniable, what truly stands out is who she is. Showing up as your authentic self…is one of the greatest gifts you can give to people around you," shared Special Assistant to the President for Engagement & Initiatives Jess Ahrens Montecalvo.
Professor of Computer Information Systems Bob Desilets, affectionately known as "Mr. Database" in the Computer Information Systems (CIS) department, leaves behind an impressive academic legacy. His contributions include co-authoring the Computer Science degree program in partnership with WPI and creating transfer degree programs with Fitchburg and Framingham State Universities. Professor of Computer Information Systems Charulata Trivedi praised his extensive project work that consistently prepared students to be career-ready upon graduation.
The dental program said goodbye to someone who has made a lasting impact with the retirement of Dental Clinic Operations and Facilities Manager Sheryl Ficorilli. Professor of Dental Hygiene/Pre-Dental Hygiene Coordinator Jane Gauthier remembered her as the "perfect candidate" when hired, and over her decade-plus career, she collaborated in securing over $600,000 in funding. Ficorilli was instrumental in designing and building a state-of-the-art dental materials lab and establishing the collaboration with Senior Connection (formerly Central Mass. Agency on Aging) that has served hundreds of seniors. Additionally, her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic ensured students could continue their studies while patients received essential care.
Henry Ritter's 30-plus year journey at QCC began in 1991 as a student and evolved into a career defining health advising at the college. Dean of Healthcare Pat Schmohl described Henry as having "quietly, steadily and wholeheartedly shaped the lives of so many" through his enduring presence and unwavering focus on students. Known for his insight, kindness, and legendary love of the Celtics, Henry became the trusted voice that students and colleagues could always count on, particularly in helping students navigate the complex process of entering healthcare programs.
The Human Services department bid farewell to a 30-year veteran Brenda Safford. Professor of Psychology Maura Stickles reflected on the journey of having Brenda as a student to working side-by-side decades later and commending Safford's collaborative spirit in governance processes that left an indelible mark on the college's long-term vision.
"Her dedication to the college, the Human Services department and her students has been unmatched. She is dedicated, thoughtful and a leader in every sense of the word," said Stickles.
Dean of Compliance Liz Woods was remembered by Vice President of Strategic Enrollment and Student Engagement Michelle Tufau as a "force" who has poured her heart and soul into QCC, while bringing energy and a sense of humor to the spaces she inhabits. Whether it's creating a space for prayer and reflection or handing out baby blankets and baked goods, Woods had a way of making people feel seen and supported.
"Liz hasn’t just shown up, she has shaped QCC. She has helped define its spirit," said Tufau.
As these dedicated professionals begin their next chapters, their collective impact on students and colleagues will continue to influence QCC for years to come. The QCC community thanks them for their service and wishes them the best in whatever comes next.
This year's retirees included:
- Bonnie Coleman, Manager of Student Resources
- Lu Costa, Executive Assistant to the President
- Maggie Crowell Murray, Professor of Biology
- Bob Desilets, Professor of Computer Information Systems
- Sheryl Ficorilli, Dental Clinic Operations and Facilities Manager
- Christina Hebert, Director of Educational Partnerships K-12 & Early College Initiatives
- Steve Marini, COO/CFO and Vice President of Administrative Services
- John Mitchell, Assessment Specialist
- Steve Rayshick, Professor of English
- Henry Ritter, Coordinator- Career and Academic Planning Services
- Brenda Safford, Professor of Human Services
- Tami Strouth, Coordinator of Student Accessibility Services
- Liz Woods, Dean of Compliance and Education