(L-to-r) Raul Fernandez, Ashley Sharpe-Porter, Christine Benero, Mary Bourque, and Deborah Buehler

Alumni Awards

BU Wheelock Announces 2025 Alumni Awards

BU Wheelock announces the recipients of the 2025 Alumni Awards. All five are exceptional alumni who have demonstrated remarkable contributions to their fields and communities. Their work reflects the values and mission of BU Wheelock in powerful and inspiring ways.

All are welcome to join the 2025 Alumni Awards Celebration & Brunch, which will take place during Boston University’s Alumni Weekend. It will be held Saturday, September 27, 10 am–12 pm, at the Duan Family Center for Computing & Data Sciences, 17th Fl. (665 Commonwealth Ave.). Learn more and register for the 2025 Alumni Awards Celebration.

Lucy Wheelock Award: Mary Bourque

Mary M. Bourque (Wheelock’99,’08), executive director of the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents, is a lifelong advocate for educational equity. A former Chelsea Public Schools teacher and superintendent, she has led urban reform, mentored leaders, and shaped state policy. Her career reflects a deep commitment to public education, community service, and student opportunity.

Young Alumni Award: Ashley Sharpe-Porter

Ashley Sharpe-Porter (Wheelock’15) is an education leader with more than 15 years of experience in coaching, planning, and leading toward equity. She currently serves as co-founder of the Sister Study, which supports Black women doctoral students. She also serves on advisory boards, championing resources and support for underserved communities.

Outstanding Contribution to Alumni & Alma Mater Award: Raul Fernandez

Raul Fernandez (COM’00,Wheelock’16) is an educator and advocate whose work bridges policy, organizing, and educational equity. With a background spanning higher education leadership, municipal government, and grassroots activism, he has worked within and outside of BU Wheelock to dismantle inequitable systems, amplify community voice in policy making, and prepare educators and advocates to lead transformative change.

Distinguished Achievement Award: Deborah Buehler

Deborah Buehler (GRS’93, Wheelock’82) dedicates her career to the NIDCAP Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program, its development, practice, and training. She is the president of the NIDCAP Federation International, an international non-profit organization, and directs and trains from the West Coast NIDCAP and APIB Training Center at UCSF in California.

Distinguished Achievement Award: Christine Benero

Christine Benero (Wheelock’83) is president and CEO of Mile High United Way in Denver. She also served as CEO of the American Red Cross Mile High Chapter, and director of the Office of Public Liaison for the Corporation for National and Community Service under Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush.