Five Holy Cross Employees Honored for Outstanding Service

WORCESTER, Mass. – Five employees of the College of the Holy Cross have received the 2009 Claire B. Burns Awards. The awards program, now in its 13th year, was established and endowed in 1997 by Donal J. Burns ’49 in honor of his wife, Claire, an alumna of the Class of 1990. The awards are presented annually to non-exempt employees of the College, currently working or retired, who in the fulfillment of their responsibilities have demonstrated, fostered and promoted the spirit of family which is a treasured characteristic of the Holy Cross Community.

As part of the Claire B. Burns Awards Program, Debora M. Cain received The Rev. William J. O’Halloran, S.J., Award. The award was established to honor Fr. O’Halloran’s long years of service to the College, from 1963-2008; his closeness to non-exempt employees; and his contributions to the Claire B. Burns Employee Award Program. During his tenure with the College, Fr. O’Halloran served as chair of the psychology department, assistant chaplain, rector of the Jesuit Community, trustee, vice president of the College, and special assistant to the president.

The recipients, all from the Worcester area, were honored at a banquet on March 10.

The recipients are:

Debora M. Cain, of Webster, has worked in health services since 1987.

Lillian G. Carlson, of North Grafton, has worked in dining services since 2002.

Helena J. Mahan, of Auburn, has worked in physical plant/building services since 1998.

Sonia Mangual Corazzini, of Worcester, has worked in physical plant/building services since 1995.

Robert L. Pratt, of Dudley, has worked in physical plant/grounds since 1990.

Lillian M. Williams, of Worcester, has worked in athletics since 1999.

In addition, 39 employees were recognized for perfect attendance over the past year. One hundred and two employees were also recognized for years of service to the College.

In addition, 15 employees will be honored at the College’s 25+ Awards Ceremony on May 2 for years of service to the College.