A generous gift from Boston College alumnus and longtime benefactor Ronald E. Logue ’67, MBA’74, will endow the Kathleen McGillycuddy Fund for Women’s Philanthropy, in memory of his late wife, who co-founded the Council for Women of Boston College and was the first woman to chair the University’s Board of Trustees. 

In recognition of this gift, the University will rename the Council for Women of Boston College (CWBC) Colloquium to the Kathleen McGillycuddy CWBC Colloquium, honoring McGillycuddy’s transformative leadership and enduring legacy. Established in 2015, the colloquium hosts exceptional thought leaders to consider contemporary issues through the lens of women’s leadership. Past speakers include Mia Hamm, Gayle King, and Reshma Saujani.

“We are deeply grateful to Ron for his generosity to the University in Kathleen’s memory,” says Beth Thompson, vice president for development at Boston College. “His thoughtful gift will accelerate our initiatives to engage alumnae and ensure that their leadership continues to thrive here.”

A 1971 graduate of Newton College of the Sacred Heart, McGillycuddy was a pioneering figure and key executive in Boston’s banking industry for nearly 30 years. She joined the Boston College Board of Trustees in 2002, became vice-chair in 2008, and served as chair from 2011 to 2014. She also co-chaired the Light the World campaign and, with Logue, established the McGillycuddy-Logue Center for Undergraduate Global Studies in 2008 to promote international education at BC.

In 2002, Kathleen co-founded the Council for Women of Boston College (CWBC), and she served as chair until 2023. Under her 20-plus years of guidance, the CWBC expanded to include more than 2,000 members worldwide who work to advance the role of BC women as leaders, mentors, and supporters of the University’s mission.

“Kathleen was a true thought leader,” says Trustee Associate Hon. Darcel Clark ’83. “She had vision, values, and grace to move things forward. We loved being around her because she was always kind, supportive, and encouraging. She wanted the best for BC and for all women.” 

Current CWBC co-chair and University Trustee Pat Bonan ’79 agrees. “Kathleen inspired and engaged others, bringing alums in who would have not otherwise engaged with BC,” she says. “She was strategic, patient, organized, and always gracious. A true role model and a dear friend.”

Beyond her professional achievements, McGillycuddy mentored BC alumnae and students, guiding them not only with her knowledge but with an impeccable style and a sense of humor that inspired others. “Brilliant and witty, Kathleen was always brimming with insights on a variety of subjects,” says University Trustee Beth Vanderslice ’86, current CWBC co-chair. “It was just a pure joy to be in her orbit.”

“Kathleen loved Boston College and she believed deeply in the power of women to shape its future,” says Logue. “The fund is named for her so that her example of steadfast leadership and generous spirit will continue to inspire others.”