Local Paper Covers Holy Cross’ Hanify-Howland Lecture

On Oct. 25, Nancy Lublin, founder and CEO of Crisis Text Line — a 24/7, free, text message-based support service for people with a variety of issues, including depression, substance abuse, physical abuse and eating disorders, presented the Hanify-Howland Memorial Lecture titled “The Giving Solution: How Philanthropy is Changing the World” at the College of the Holy Cross.

Before the lecture, the Telegram & Gazette conducted a Q&A with Lublin about the interface of business and philanthropy, and how her experiences as the founder of Dress for Success and CEO of DoSomething.org have shaped how she spearheaded Crisis Text Line.

In an answer to one of the questions, Lublin explained why individuals come to Crisis Text Line for support during challenging times.

“These are intense situations. I think text is a safe way, you feel safe, it’s private and anonymous, it’s how young people communicate,” said Lublin. “It’s how all people communicate now...There’s no judgments, even if you tell us something really horrific, you’re not going to hear a gasp, or someone’s tone of voice alter, it is really is judgement-free.”

The lecture, which recognizes individuals who have distinguished themselves in the realm of public service, addresses challenges facing America today in honor of Edward Hanify, a member of the graduating class of 1904, and Weston Howland.

Read the full Q&A with Lublin on telegram.com.

This “Holy Cross in the News” item by Kelsey Littlefield ’17.