Senator Patrick ‘61 and Marcelle Leahy

Saint Michael’s College proudly honors Senator Patrick Leahy ’61 and Marcelle Leahy with the Father Mike Cronogue Award for Service, recognizing a lifetime of leadership, generosity, and unwavering commitment to the common good.

A 1961 graduate of Saint Michael’s College, Patrick Leahy went on to become one of the most distinguished public servants in American history. Elected to the United States
Senate in 1974, he served for 48 years—from 1975 to 2023—making him the longest-serving senator in Vermont history and among the longest-serving in the nation. During his tenure, Senator Leahy held some of the Senate’s most influential leadership positions, including serving twice as President Pro Tempore, and chaired major committees such as Appropriations, Judiciary, and Agriculture. His work championed human rights, environmental stewardship, civil liberties, and access to opportunity, leaving a lasting impact on Vermont, the nation, and the global community.

Marcelle Leahy, a registered nurse and respected community leader, has devoted her life to service and advocacy. She has held leadership roles with organizations supporting healthcare, cancer prevention, and military families, including the Vermont National Guard Family Readiness and Support Program.

Together, the Leahys exemplify a partnership grounded in humility, compassion, and a shared commitment to justice. Their enduring connection to Saint Michael’s College is reflected in their continued engagement and generosity, including support for transformative initiatives such as the Patrick ’61 and Marcelle Leahy Institute for the Environment—an investment in future generations of scholars and changemakers.

Fr. Mike Cronogue was a beloved presence on this campus for decades, known for reminding us of the parable of the mustard seed—that even the smallest act of faith can grow into something powerful and transformative. With faith, compassion, and a deep sense of purpose, Senator Patrick Leahy and Marcelle Leahy have lived that message in extraordinary ways. Together, they have shaped lives, strengthened communities, and created lasting impact for Saint Michael’s, for Vermont, and far beyond. Today, we celebrate all they have given, and with great gratitude we present them with the Fr. Mike Cronogue Award for Service. One can only imagine Fr. Mike looking on with pride.