Montserrat College of Art establishes Jo Broderick Endowment Fund to honor popular dean
'Jo was there for it all, working tirelessly behind the scenes with an infectious determination and enthusiasm,' Montserrat said in a statement.
Broderick rose to become chief of staff/dean of college relations, a key leadership position in which she also represented Montserrat before public and private community groups.
'To me, Montserrat has been a lifestyle, not a job,' Broderick, a former reporter at the Salem News, said in an email to the Globe. 'I have loved my 36+ years here. The boards and donors who are close to the college see the value of Montserrat up close and personal.'
Of special importance to her, Broderick said, was seeing students find their path in a small, personal institution of higher education.
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'Not every student was made for science, accounting, or business, but that doesn't lessen their value as contributing members of society. The very personalized, creative education Montserrat offers changes lives,' Broderick said. 'I have seen it first-hand and it is a real point of pride for the faculty and staff.'
With less than 400 students, Montserrat churns out visual artists, graphic designers, educators, and others who receive a bachelor of fine arts degrees.
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In 2022, Montserrat made US News and World Report's list of Best Colleges, with distinction in the 'North Region' and 'Social Mobility,' which recognizes achievement for helping economically disadvantaged students finish college.
Broderick recalled one alum who came from high school as a foster child, and noted that in that demographic, only 3 to 4 percent graduate from a four-year college.
'Imagine how we felt (and she felt) the day she graduated, already having a job waiting for her,' Broderick said. 'That is a feeling I have been able to have so many times by being here.'
Broderick was honored in May with a personal 'graduation ceremony,' where she donned cap and gown to receive a special citation from state Senator Joan Lovely, a Salem Democrat.
Officials also announced the creation
The fund will 'exist in perpetuity, ensuring Jo's impact will continue to be a part of Montserrat's history for years to come,' Montserrat said.
Adam Sennott can be reached at
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