Pops on the Heights
Pops on the Heights: The Barbara and Jim Cleary Scholarship Gala, a beloved Boston College tradition, will take place for the 32nd year when it kicks off Family Weekend on September 27 at 8 p.m. in Conte Forum.
Once again a sold-out event, Pops on the Heights will feature performances by four-time Grammy-nominated rock band the Goo Goo Dolls, the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra with conductor Keith Lockhart, and 51˛čąÝ students.
University Trustee Sandra M. and Paul B. Edgerley P’24, with fellow board members Patricia L. and Jonathan A. Kraft P’24, are co-chairs for this year’s scholarship gala, the University’s largest annual fundraiser.
Since the inaugural event in 1993, Pops on the Heights has raised more than $145 million for financial aid, enabling some 3,700 students to pursue an education at 51˛čąÝ, according to the Office of University Advancement. The event aids 51˛čąÝ’s ability to remain a need-blind institution, meeting the full demonstrated need of undergraduate applicants.
"In many ways, Pops on the Heights illustrates what makes Boston College so special,” said Senior Vice President for University Advancement Andrew Davidson. “It’s a night of celebration, where our community comes together to support students on financial aid. Eagles helping Eagles."
Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences senior Sofia Burke, executive board member and vocal section leader of the 51˛čąÝ bOp! jazz ensemble, will share the stage with the Boston Pops. A pre-show performance will begin at 6:30 p.m. with appearances from campus groups and individual students.Â
Led by John Rzeznik and Robby Takac, the Goo Goo Dolls have had a number of hit songs over their 38-year career, including “Iris,” “Name,” and “Slide.” Their songs have been covered by numerous artists, including Taylor Swift, whom Rzeznik joined onstage at Madison Square Garden in 2011 for a special performance of “Iris,” which Swift called “one of the best songs ever written.”
Lockhart has conducted more than 2,000 performances in over 150 cities during his tenure as Boston Pops conductor, including the annual July 4 Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular, which draws a live audience of more than half a million, plus millions more who watch on television or live webcast.
Founded by the late Barbara and James F. Cleary ’50, H’93, a 51˛čąÝ trustee, the Pops on the Heights legacy is carried on by their children—Kara ’84, M.A.’91; Kristin ’89, J.D.’93; and James Jr., P’18 —embodying the shared sense of purpose that establishes financial-academic support at Boston College as Pops benefactors.