Strengthening the Friar Family: Connecting Students with Alumni at the Careers in Healthcare Event
On April 9, 2025, the School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS), in partnership with the Chirico Career Center, hosted the Second Annual Careers in Healthcare Event at the Mondor Center. This event continues to strengthen the bonds between our students and the ever-growing alumni healthcare community. There’s something truly special about hearing from Providence College graduates who have walked in our students’ shoes—sharing their experiences, challenges, and successes. This connection not only inspires but also helps guide our students as they explore the many paths available in healthcare careers.
The evening began with a keynote address from John Denson ’89, ’19P, ’22P, ’26P—Senior Client Partner at Korn Ferry and Chair of the SNHS Advisory Board. John shared valuable insights from his extensive healthcare leadership experience, setting a motivating tone for the night ahead.
Following the keynote, students divided into two breakout sessions tailored to their career interests. Kate DeVincent ’28 moderated the health sciences and clinical careers session, while nursing student Sophia Calle ’27 led the nursing-focused group. Both played an important role in facilitating open, engaging conversations between students and alumni panelists.
The nursing panel featured alumni working across diverse healthcare settings:
- Paula Arrigg ’18, Registered Nurse in the Neurosciences Unit at Massachusetts General Hospital
- Aaron Ferrante ’18, Oncology Research Nurse at The Miriam Hospital
- Laura Walsh LeClair ’11, Hospitalist and Internal Medicine Nurse Practitioner at Massachusetts General Hospital
- Tara Murray ’15, Pediatric Nurse at Boston Children’s Hospital
The health sciences panel included professionals in physical therapy, physician assistant roles, healthcare administration, and more:
- Brendan Swan ’13, Orthopedic Surgery Physician Assistant at New England Baptist Hospital
- Lea Noonan Swan ’13, Physical Therapist & Physician Liaison at Spear Physical & Occupational Therapy
- Madison Palmer ’21, Director of Government Programs Performance & Strategy at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island
- Danica Lynch ’13, Clinical Director and Physical Therapist at Professional Physical Therapy
- Kelly Page ’93, Senior Vice President at Arvinas
- Brendan Kimball ’14, Administrative Director of the Pediatric Transplant Center at Boston Children’s Hospital
Open to students from all majors and class years, the event offered a unique opportunity for them to connect directly with alumni who understand the journey firsthand. This authentic exchange of knowledge and encouragement is a vital part of the Friar family’s mission to support and prepare students for successful careers in healthcare.
Thanks to the collaboration of faculty, staff, and community partners, the evening was a resounding success. The Friar family continues to grow stronger, and we look forward to welcoming even more alumni and students to next year’s event!
