I was very honored to have recently graduated with a certificate in Thanatology from Bristol Community College.  Thanatology is a special field that explores death, dying, grief, and loss.  It’s a subject matter we all deal with, and it’s especially useful with my being a counselor and teacher. 

Last night at graduation, shortly after my singing the national anthem, I was announced as the Hathaway Funeral Service’s recipient of the Excellence in Thanatology Award for academic excellence in the study of Thanatology, dedication to the caregiving profession, and generous community service.  My work to advocate for heart disease awareness has been a special topic for me to speak with my professor, John Tormey, and my national speaking on this topic as a means to save lives and prevent grief made him believe I was a great candidate for this award.  I am very honored…there were so many wonderful, dedicated people who graduated from the program last night, and I am certainly proud to represent our graduates!

Thank you so much to John Tormey, Hathaway Funeral Service, and President Jack Sbrega.  I received a full year tuition to B.C.C. from my winning the Miss Massachusetts title, and my academic time at this school has been so rewarding and fulfilling!