West Bridgewater, Mass. resident first woman to lead Fairfield University Student Association | Press Releases

Karen Donoghue of West Bridgewater, Mass., who was president of her senior class at Coyle and Cassidy High School, makes history this year as the first female president of the Fairfield University Student Association. In a hard-fought election, she came out on top by 11 votes, 565-554. Women were first admitted to the full-time undergraduate program at the Jesuit university in 1970.

During her freshman year at Fairfield, Karen formed a Student Alumni Association, serving as president until her election as president of the campus-wide student body. Active in Campus Ministry as a lector, she joined the Mission Volunteer Program during her sophomore year, which took her to Mexico. A serious student, she is carrying a double major in management and communication.

In an article in the Connecticut section of the New York Times, Kenneth Best relayed how Karen sought advice "from the highest possible source on campus, the Rev. Aloysius P. Kelley, S.J., the president of the university. 'I really encouraged her to run,' Father Kelley said. 'When I spoke with her, she was hesitant. I have felt for a long time, despite our rather short history, that we should have had a woman in that position. I suppose in any election, the election is somewhat dependent on circumstance. But ultimately it comes down to qualifications and how the person campaigned. I'm doubly delighted; that there is a woman, and it's Karen.'"

For assistance in arranging an interview, please call Nancy Habetz, Director of Media Relations, (203) 254-4000, ext. 2647.

Karen may be reached at her office on campus at (203) 254-4040.