Let It Shine Gala: A Night of Celebration, Inspiration, and Impact 

The ninth annual Let It Shine Gala on October 30, 2024, held at the Four Seasons Hotel Boston, brought together more than 225 attendees for an evening of celebration, inspiration, and philanthropy. The event raised over $650,000 for scholarships, highlighting Regis' dedication to increasing access to higher education for students from all backgrounds and helping them rise to their full potential. 

Regis was proud to honor Ophelia Dahl (pictured Left), Co-Founder of Partners In Health, with the esteemed Shining Example Award for her unwavering commitment to health equity and social justice. Much like the Sisters of St. Joseph, Dahl's journey exemplifies the values of compassion, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the power of collective action. 

“Ms. Dahl’s leadership has not only impacted global health but has also strengthened our work at Regis, particularly through the Regis in Haiti Program, launched in partnership with Partners In Health in 2007,” said University President Antoinette Hays, PhD, RN. “This initiative has improved healthcare and nursing education in Haiti, resulting in over 2,000 Haitian nurses earning bachelor’s degrees through the Ministry of Health and the University of Haiti.” 

The evening’s emcee, 7News anchor and honorary Regis degree recipient Amaka Ubaka (pictured right), started the event with her heartfelt reflections on Regis’ mission. “Regis challenges and inspires its students—empowering them to make a difference in the world,” said Ubaka. “It is this collective spirit that has earned Regis a special place in the hearts of its supporters—myself included.” 

Stories of Inspiration 
The true stars of the evening were the Regis students, who shared their personal stories of transformation and gratitude, showcasing the impact Regis has in helping students reach their full potential through opportunity, support, and community. 

Among them was student speaker Isha Bhagat ’25 (pictured left), a Presidential Catholic Scholarship recipient pursuing a nursing degree with a minor in women’s and gender studies. Bhagat’s speech resonated deeply with attendees as she described her journey of growth, inspired by the opportunities and support she’s found at Regis. 

“Regis has given me more than an education; it helped me find my voice, my purpose, and my confidence,” said Bhagat. “I look forward to becoming a nurse practitioner and working in underserved communities where I can make a meaningful impact.” 

Bhagat also shared a transformative experience from a service trip to the Blessed Assurance Mustard Seed community in Jamaica. “This trip changed my life,” she said. “I learned the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing challenges that push my limits. It taught me invaluable lessons about connection, love, and grace.” 

Other students, including Princesa Gonzalez ’26 and Aiden Charles ’25, shared their inspiring journeys. Gonzalez, a Puerto Rico Dear Neighbor Scholarship recipient, spoke about her passion for biology and her groundbreaking work in the university’s ovarian cancer lab. 

Charles (pictured right) emphasized the unwavering resilience, dedication, and support that have guided him through his journey at Regis, helping him overcome challenges and seize new opportunities. 

“This May, I’ll be the first Black male to graduate from Regis with a degree in biomedical engineering, and I hope to inspire other Black students to pursue careers in STEM,” said Charles. “Your generosity has given my family and me a priceless gift—opportunity for a brighter future.” 

Rising Together: 100 Years of Impact 
The spirit of Regis' mission—empowering students to rise and make a difference—was evident in every shared story and moment of reflection. As we look towards our Centennial in 2027, Regis remains committed to opening its doors to students from all backgrounds, equipping them with the tools to tackle real-world challenges and become service-driven leaders. With the continued support of the Regis community, we will ensure another century of meaningful impact. 

SAVE THE DATE:
Let It Shine Gala | October 29, 2025 

Pleas save the date for the 2025 Let It Shine Gala on October 29, where Regis College will honor Jim O’Connell, MD, President of Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, with the Shining Example Award for his extraordinary contributions to healthcare and social justice. Join us at the Four Seasons Boston Hotel for an inspiring evening celebrating Dr. O’Connell’s transformative impact and supporting our student scholars! 
 

See more of Let It Shine!

• View and download event photos
• Read Let It Shine Gala press release
• Read students' speeches

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