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The Boston College community opened its collective heart last week to one of its most beloved members: retiring Woods College of Advancing Studies Dean and namesake James A. Woods, SJ.
Fr. Woods, stepping down after 44 years, was honored for his renowned dedication and commitment in service to others — in particular his efforts to make educational opportunities available to those in need — at a “Celebration of Gratitude” on April 17 in Conte Forum.
A crowd that included many of Fr. Woods’ colleagues and former students, along with other well-wishers, gathered on the floor of Conte and in the adjacent stands to hear speakers praise his devotion to his vocation and Boston College. More than a few of the tributes included phrases that have become part of the Fr. Woods lexicon, notably “Couldn’t be better.”
“Fr. Woods is ‘excellent’ today,” quipped Professor of Communication Marilyn Matelski, who served as emcee for the event.
In his invocation, Robert Farrell, SJ, a Woods College faculty member, called Fr. Woods “an inspiration to us all” and offered thanks for his “vision and vitality” over the past 44 years.
University President William P. Leahy, SJ, praised Fr. Woods’ “interior spirit” and “the sense of hope deep within him” as qualities that have characterized his work.
“The Woods College of Advancing Studies reflects that spirit, and this has contributed immeasurably to the University’s mission,” said Fr. Leahy. “Fr. Woods is a true son of St. Ignatius, a man for others at Boston College.”
Fr. Woods, recovering from an illness, did not speak but was present on the speakers’ platform and at the reception after the program. His pre-recorded remarks, which were played on the Conte public address system, served as his response to the celebration.
“Your prayers and thoughts have sustained me over a lifetime,” said Fr. Woods in the recording. “I am fortunate to have such support to inspire and invigorate me each day.”
In his remarks, Fr. Woods praised the many “great students who always been part of my life. They teach me so much. They teach me that the world is made, and moved, by individuals. One person can help another — who in turn can help others — and by doing so, make a difference.”
Fr. Woods expressed gratitude to the Woods College faculty for creating “a dynamic learning environment” and the Woods College staff members with whom he worked over the years, singling out Mary Hennessy, David Lizotte and Cheryl Wright.
“Each individual in the office is supportive, and with an overwhelming desire to serve.”
Also receiving acknowledgement from Fr. Woods were the many benefactors and donors — including one of the guest speakers, Trustee Associate Robert M. Devlin — whose generosity has been a boon for the college.
“The strength I draw from you all,” Fr. Woods’ remarks concluded, “restores me and inspires me to grow.”
Devlin, who along with his wife Katharine made a $5 million gift in 2002 to name the College of Advancing Studies — formerly known as the Evening College — after Fr. Woods, recounted his personal and familial ties with his longtime mentor and friend. He lauded Fr. Woods for providing an invaluable path to education for many students lacking means or opportunities.
“He is a man with generous mind, heart and spirit, who has made dreams become real for thousands,” said Devlin, who added: “How is the Woods College doing? Couldn’t be better!”
A special guest speaker, Harvard Business School Cizik Professor of Business Administration Clayton Christensen, discussed the vital role religion plays in many facets of society, including in education. He credited Fr. Woods not only for helping promote the presence of faith, but for making it available through Jesuit and Catholic education to people who might not have access otherwise to higher learning of any kind.
“I hope that the example Fr. Woods has set in the Woods College is repeated across campuses,” he said.