Woman takes a selfie with Red, the MCPHS mascot.
University News | 12/19/2024

MCPHS 2024: The Year in Photos

By Dana Barbuto

Woman takes a selfie with Red, the MCPHS mascot.

Celebrate the moments that defined our year with a look back at the faces, events, and achievements that brought our Community together.

From milestone celebrations to everyday moments of connection, 2024 has been another unforgettable year at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS). Explore our favorite photos that showcase the energy, diversity, and achievements of our vibrant Community.

Students and Professor in a lab.

Associate Dean of Graduate Studies Ronny Priefer, PhD, is among the MCPHS faculty teaching at Bioversity, a workforce training initiative launched in January. Since its inception, Bioversity has trained 65 students across five cohorts, achieving a 74% placement rate in full-time roles at 15 life sciences companies.

Students stand with President Richard Lessard and Provost Caroline Zeind at the MCPHS Black Excellence Dinner.

MCPHS held its third annual Black Excellence Dinner in February as part of the University's Black History Month events.

Carol Stuckey, Caroline Zeind, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, and Richard J. Lessard

In February, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu joined MCPHS President Richard J. Lessard, Provost Caroline Zeind, and Dean of the School of Professional Studies Carol Stuckey to announce a $1.37 million grant from the City of Boston’s Neighborhood Jobs Trust. The funding supported MCPHS’s partnership with Bioversity.

The Reed Conference 2024.

On March 7, MCPHS hosted the annual Reed Conference for Pharmacy at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Mass. Established in 1941, the conference honors Howard L. Reed for his dedication and service to MCPHS.

The School of Pharmacy's 20th annual Capstone Business Plan Competition took place on April 10, with 28 teams participating. Prizes were given to the top three finishers. 

The School of Pharmacy's 20th annual Capstone Business Plan Competition took place on April 10, with 28 teams participating. Prizes were given to the top three finishers.

Around the World Bicentennial Celebration South Korea 2024

This spring, MCPHS hosted its first Global Alumni Event in Seoul, South Korea, bringing together over 100 attendees—including alumni, faculty, staff, accepted students, and a U.S. Embassy representative—for a memorable evening of connection and celebration.

People at the MCPHS Late Night Breakfast

A finals week tradition continued this April at another Late Night Breakfast on the Boston campus. Faculty and staff shared words of encouragement with students while serving them breakfast foods. Volunteers and hungry students took over the Atrium, commemorating the end of another semester.

MCPHS faculty members talking and engaging in a large classroom.

In April, full-time faculty and University leaders gathered on the Worcester campus for Faculty Day to engage in enriching discussions and celebrate faculty achievements.

Students at MCPHS Commencement.

More than 1,800 graduates celebrated spring 2024 Commencement at Leader Bank Pavilion in Boston, ready to make a difference in healthcare and life sciences worldwide.

People sit at a table on MCPHS Employee Appreciation Day

University faculty and staff gathered at the Boston Marriott in Newton for the annual Employee Appreciation Event in May.

Parents and student stand with the MCPHS mascot, Red.

In June, incoming undergraduates gathered on the Boston campus for a weekend filled with introductory experiences and activities organized by the Center for Campus Life. Students had the chance to immerse themselves in life at MCPHS, meet new classmates, and learn more about the University’s living, social, and academic spaces.

Two women stand in front of a MCPHS sign.

In September, MCPHS hosted the International Student Reception in Boston, bringing together students from around the world. The event offered food, drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere where attendees forged new friendships and connections, setting the tone for an exciting fall semester.

2024 Year in Review Worcester International Student Reception.jpg

The International Student Reception in Worcester warmly welcomed learners from around the globe to MCPHS. Held in September, the event featured food, drinks, and plenty of smiles. Students built friendships and formed new connections as they prepared for the fall semester.

Three students move in to MCPHS residence hall.

The Boston campus was abuzz with activity on August 28 as students began moving into their dorms ahead of the start of classes. Cars crowded the streets around campus, with families and friends unloading boxes filled with clothes, laptops, backpacks and more. After having a few days to explore campus and the city, students jumped into the fall semester on Sept. 3.

Faculty and staff came together in Boston, Worcester and Manchester for the annual Fall Kickoff Cookouts.

In late August, Faculty and staff came together in Boston, Worcester and Manchester for the annual Fall Kickoff Cookouts.

Alumni and guests at MCPHS Reunion 2024.

On October 26, the Fairmont Copley Plaza was buzzing with excitement as MCPHS welcomed 250 alumni and guests for Reunion 2024. The evening was filled with laughter, storytelling, and cheers to friendships that have stood the test of time.

Two students dressed in masks.

On November 15, students gathered at the Hilton Boston Park Plaza for the 2024 Harvest Ball. With a “masquerade” theme, the evening featured a three-course meal, lively dancing, and plenty of photo opportunities. Guests embraced the night’s mystery by wearing semi-formal attire and elegant masks.

Students in cap and gowns at Commencement.

On December 17, more than 300 graduates gathered at the DCU Center in Worcester to celebrate their achievements and embark on the next chapter of their healthcare journeys. Presided over by President Richard J. Lessard, the Commencement honored graduates from the Forsyth School of Dental Hygiene, the School of Medical Imaging and Therapeutics, the School of Nursing, and the School of Physician Assistant Studies in Worcester and Manchester.