Buckley Boulevard celebrates alumna’s love of education As students returned to campus this fall, they undoubtedly noticed the addition of a new street sign: Buckley Boulevard, named for Jane Buckley Firla ’63 (See photo of Jane, page 55). As they traverse the campus now and in the years to come, it is likely that many will wonder about the sign’s namesake. Jane’s story is characterized by giving—to her family, friends, and alma mater—her husband of 41 years emphasizes. “She was a devoted wife and mother, she cherished family and friends,” said Bill Firla, adding, “She was a true friend.” After her children had grown, Jane also worked in administrative positions at Babson College and the Dexter School in Brookline. The couple lived in Needham for many years before moving to Norwell in 2001. Jane passed away in 2004 after a battle with colon cancer. Gregarious but modest, “Jane was a
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low-key, behind the scenes kind of person,” her husband said. “Longterm friendships were very important to her, and she maintained lots of friends from Regis. Any time there was a Regis event, I think she attended.” In May, Bill and his daughter, Gail, attended the Class of 1963’s 50th Reunion, which included a memorial Mass. It was a meaningful experience. “A number of classmates stopped to say a few kind words, and I, of course, was happy to hear that. I was also happy to have my daughter hear that Jane was still dear to so many
hearts,” he recalled. It was after the event that Bill decided, “to do something significant because the College did mean so much to her. I just thought it might be nice to do something visible to remember her, to remember her time there, and all that it meant to her.” To celebrate a generous gift from Bill to Regis, Buckley Boulevard was
dedicated by President Hays at a ceremony for family members in August. The roadway extends from the Cardinal Spellman Stamp Museum all the way to Morrison House and the Tower Garden. There is no question where Jane's legacy lies, Bill reflected. “She would be so proud of her daughters, and of her grand-
children, who are strong, solid citizens, all going to good colleges and performing well. It’s really Jane’s model of instilling such solid values, of educating them about what’s good and what’s bad. I think that’s her legacy: a wonderful family, wonderful nieces and nephews, wonderful children, and wonderful grandchildren.”—by Lea Plante
To learn more about naming opportunities at Regis College, call Tara Brady, Director of Development, at 781-768-7238
Family Photo (L-R): Grandaughter Caroline Fitzpatrick (freshman, University of Michigan), son-in-law Peter Fitzpatrick, daughter Ellen (Firla) Fitzpatrick, Bill Firla, President Hays, daughter Gail Firla, granddaughter Charlotte Fitzpatrick (junior, Thayer Academy), grandson Peter Fitzpatrick (sophomore, NYU) gather on Buckley Blvd. in August.