Called to Excellence: The Future Starts Today

Thank you for joining us on May 1, 2025

The Light of Leadership Award

Presented to Reverend William P. Joy and Annmarie and William Kennedy, the award was created to honor those who model service to others, share their faith and love of God, and light a pathway of lifelong learning for our students and alumni.

About Father Joy

Long before the Academy was founded, Father Joy was a key advocate of Catholic education throughout the city. As the long-time pastor of St. Angela Merici Parish in Mattapan and of St. Matthew in Dorchester, he worked tirelessly to run and save the schools, despite declining facilities and enrollment. He has a great love for the underrepresented communities, the poor, and the immigrant. His whole career as a priest has been to serve and champion the poorest communities in Boston. He has quietly and with great love impacted the Mattapan community.

While serving at St Angela’s and St Matthew’s, Father Joy recognized that, sadly, some of the parish schools needed to close in order sustain the remaining schools. He worked closely with Sister Gail Donahue, then Principal, Archdiocesan personnel, and parish leadership, gently doing the work to bring everyone together.

His leadership was instrumental in forming the Academy. We often talk about standing on the shoulders of giants. Those individuals that had the vision, courage, and fortitude to create this Academy. Father Joy is one of these giants. His thoughtful presence and gentle guidance led to the success of Saint John Paul II Catholic Academy.

About Annmarie and Bill Kennedy

Annmarie and Bill Kennedy have made an impact and contribution to the Greater Boston community, not only through their dedication to their professional careers in education and law but more importantly through their compassion and service to others.  They humbly live the Jesuit mission of men and women in service to others.

The Kennedy family shares a core belief that every child deserves the opportunity for a quality education.  They’ve built strong relationships throughout the city by living a personal principle that you treat people the way you want to be treated.

Since the founding of the Academy in 2008, Annmarie and Bill have generously offered their time and wise counsel through work on the Board and committees.  They have been supportive and encouraging, and have helped connect the Academy to many philanthropic opportunities.

Bill and Annmarie see the important role that the Academy plays in the lives of many children and their families to provide children with a nurturing, safe and welcoming school.

Questions?
Advancement@sjp2ca.org