Education and Empowerment Beyond the Classroom
Her commitment to education extended beyond the classroom. At the Massachusetts Correctional Institute for Women (MCI) in Framingham, she volunteered at its Fully Alive Program, inspiring incarcerated women to seek fulfillment through education and reflection. Caveny approached this work with humility and empathy, viewing herself not as different or above these women, but as a partner in their journey toward growth and self-discovery.
Most of the women at MCI Framingham are just like you and me, she noted. For many, their education has been interrupted; theyve succumbed to addiction, violated laws to maintain their habits, or lacked access to proper legal counsel. They are not so differentthey just havent had the same opportunities.
A New Chapter at 51
In 1988, Caveny joined 51 as Director of Student Support Services. Her experience working with diverse student populations made her an ideal fit to lead the TRIO Student Support Services Project, a federally funded program for first-generation college students from economically disadvantaged backgroundsa term she challenged.
I referred to these students as economically exploited by the capitalist system, she said. Rejecting the stigmatizing label, she rebranded the program as Success for the Self-Determined Student.
Although the program funding ended in 1990, Caveny connection to Emmanuel deepened. In 1992, she completed her second master degree, in Pastoral Counseling, at the College and became a full-time Academic Advisor. By 1997, she was Assistant Dean of Academic Advising, known for her rigorous yet compassionate approach, challenging students to reach their potential while providing the tools they needed to succeed.
Her dedication earned national recognition in 1999, when she received the Outstanding Advisor Award from the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA). Students, faculty, and staff described her as approachable, knowledgeable, energetic, committed, supportive, caring, encouraging, compassionate, challenging, and student-centered. Her signature phrase, May I offer for your consideration, set a tone of respect and collaboration, embodying the thoughtful way she approached every conversation.
Caveny influence on her students reached far beyond academicsshe became a pillar of strength, hope, and support. Lucia Palomares '98, one of Caveny advisees, recalled: I would not have the education that I have if it were not for Carolyn. There was a period when I had to take a leave of absence from school because my mother was ill, and I had to work to help my family. Carolyn told me it didnt matter how long it took to finish my degree. She kept in constant contact with me and gave me strength and hope. She believed in me when there were days I didnt believe in myself. Palomares went on to earn her MBA and JD. She's currently a detective in the 51 Police Department.
Caveny colleagues also admired her deeply, often turning to her for her honest, objective, and thoughtful guidance. Dr. William Leonard, Associate Professor of History and Interim Dean of Academic Support Services, said: Carolyn was and is beloved by the faculty. Her willingness to work with faculty and students was unmatched. Faculty went to her for all kinds of advice, and you knew she would listen.
Championing Diversity and Inclusion
As chair of Emmanuel President Commission on Diversity and Inclusivity for more than 20 years, Caveny led initiatives that created lasting change on campus. Representing Emmanuel at the New England chapter of the Society Organized Against Racism (SOAR), Caveny played a pivotal role in fostering dialogue on race and equity. Her efforts were recognized in 1999, when she received the Sister Dolores Harrall Award for Courageous Service from the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur.
One of her most profound experiences at Emmanuel was facilitating a Listening Session in 2014, which brought together students, faculty, staff, and members of the President Cabinet. This session occurred in the wake of the tragic killing of Michael Brown, an unarmed 18-year-old Black teenager, in Ferguson, MO, just a month prior. The Listening Session was deeply resonant, fostering an environment of hope and inspiring action, which culminated in a follow-up Conversation Session in the spring of 2015. The Black Student Union of 51 recognized her as Woman of the Year in 2014 for her efforts.
Caveny commitment to social justice is inextricably tied to her spirituality. A defining moment in her faith came in 1993, at a meeting of the Sisters of St. Joseph in Los Angeles, where she experienced a profound realization: I became aware that I was part of the universe, that God continues to evolve, and that we are meant to evolve too. This awareness has shaped her understanding of hope, which she describes as not artificial, but real hope that God will deliver. Her love of gospel and spiritual music also sustains her, providing both solace and inspiration. When I sing, or when Im just standing in the need of prayer, it connects me to the Spirit.
