Beacons Magazine - UMass Boston

A magazine for UMass Boston alumni & friends

In this issue of Beacons magazine, we feature alumni who dared to explore fields of study that sparked their curiosity as students and, in doing so, opened paths to lives filled with purpose and happiness. Over time, doors opened, opportunities appeared, and careers evolved. Each alum found innovative ways to share what mattered most to them, bringing their UMass Boston education to life through service, creativity, and leadership in their communities.

Our cover story follows the journey of Alex Pollack ’97, who turned her studies in anthropology and history into a career as a photographer, storyteller, and guardian of authenticity at the iconic National Geographic magazine. Her remarkable work capturing people and places around the world showcases the curiosity, cultural understanding, and deep appreciation for human diversity cultivated here at UMass Boston.

Read All Stories

Picture This

Alex Pollack ’97 blends curiosity, cultural insight, and a keen eye to develop visual storytelling that influences the way we see the world.

Hope Level Rising

Driven by innovative science and bolstered by a new $10 million gift, the Stone Living Lab continues to lead the charge toward climate solutions that matter in the commonwealth—and around the world.

Cause and Effect

With a generous bequest to UMass Boston’s Critical & Creative Thinking program, Christina Fasciana G’99 honors the opportunity that shaped her future while opening doors for generations to come.

Laurence Louie Beacons Magazine Winter 2026

A Taste of Triumph

From grassroots organizing to a Chopped victory, Laurence Louie G’11 traces his journey from Columbia Point to chef-owner of one of Metro Boston’s most beloved Asian bistros.

Read About Laurence Louie

Ensuring Educational Access for All

Monica Herwald ’83 & her husband Steven, recently dedicated a $400,000 planned gift to establish the Herwald Family Scholarship Fund. They believe strongly in the mission of universal access to a quality education.

Read About Monica Herwald and Steve Herwald

Departments

Your Take

For this issue of Beacons, we asked our alumni: What’s the most memorable book you’ve ever read?

Faculty Spotlight: Diane D’Arrigo ’92, G’04

Recently retired from her full-time administrative role, D’Arrigo continues to teach, shaping the lives of our students, just as the University shaped hers.

Student Q&A: Anthony Owuor ’24, G’28

“My journey has been nothing short of transformative—intellectually stimulating, emotionally enriching, and professionally uplifting.”

Did You Know?

Read about Beacon, the university’s first comfort K-9, or to see him in action, view our video here: umb.edu/beacon.

Class Notes

Nathan Hutto ’01 was promoted to chief operating officer at The Trustees. Formerly serving as chief people officer, Hutto now oversees statewide operations, including business operations, human resources, education, engagement, and stewardship.

In Memoriam

It has saddened us to learn of the passing of members of our UMass Boston community since our last issue.

Insight through a Fly’s Eye

Prof. Jens Rister and his student researchers are looking to fruit flies to learn more about human vision.

The Backyard Where Everyone Belongs

Camp Shriver at UMass Boston celebrates 20 years of inclusive play.

2025 Beacon Awards

We honored five distinguished alumni who have gained distinction through success in their professions, contributions to their communities, and dedicated service to the university.