Fontbonne Academy Marks 70 Years of Education, Honors Three Alumnae

Fontbonne Academy, The Early College of Boston, celebrated its 70th anniversary of education with a gala on Saturday, March 29, at Four Points Sheraton in Norwood.

Fontbonne, a Catholic school for girls in grades 7-12, honored three distinguished alumnae for their accomplishments this year.

A 1987 graduate, Jean Hynes became the first female to be named CEO of Boston-based asset management firm Wellington Management. Melissa Nelson, a 2006 graduate, was the first Black woman to be named the director of the Nurse-Midwifery Division at Massachusetts General Hospital. Arielle Gaines, a 2007 graduate, is an educator at Match Community Day Charter School in Hyde Park and a former Teacher of the Year awardee.

“Fontbonne's legacy of excellence in education and leadership is evident in the achievements of our alumnae,” Fontbonne Head of School Maura Spignesi said in a statement shared with The Patriot Ledger. “These exceptional individuals have made meaningful contributions to society, demonstrating the strength, dedication, and impact that Fontbonne instills in all its students. Their success reflects the values and teachings of our school, and we take pride in seeing them pursue their passions, which is what we always have and will continue to encourage.”

The 70th-anniversary gala raised funds for the school's Light of Life Fund for financial assistance. These funds provide equitable access to a Fontbonne Academy education for all students throughout the Greater Boston and South Shore areas.

The gala also showcased student performances and featured a student speaker describing the character and leadership skills young women develop throughout their Fontbonne education.

Learn more about Fontbonne Academy on its website.