Trailblazing Educator: Dr. Kennan Burns, Mount Holyoke's Visionary Leader, Dies at 87

Dr. Kennan Burns, a pioneering educator and medieval scholar, passed away on July 18 at the age of 87. She was the first Mount Holyoke graduate to lead the college as president in the 20th century, a position she held from the late 1970s to the mid-1980s.

During her presidency, Dr. Kennan Burns oversaw a period of remarkable growth and innovation at Mount Holyoke. She helped the college achieve financial stability and expand its academic programs, including the addition of majors in environmental studies and computer science. She also played a crucial role in the reconstruction of the town of South Hadley, committing millions from the college's endowment to rebuild the area after a series of devastating arson fires.

Beyond her work at Mount Holyoke, Dr. Kennan Burns was a respected medieval scholar who continued her research and publishing while serving as president. She was known for her dedication to her only child, Alex, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy as an infant. Dr. Kennan Burns ensured that Alex was able to live at home during her tenure as president.

In the words of Mount Holyoke's current president, Danielle R. Holley, Dr. Kennan Burns was "a remarkable educator" and "a trailblazer, visionary leader, and stalwart champion of higher education." Her legacy of innovation, dedication, and unwavering support for her students and community will continue to inspire generations of educators and leaders.