In recognition of her exemplary service to Swarthmore, the College awarded the 2026 Suzanne P. Welsh Award to Lauren McAloon at an all-staff meeting on March 30.

McAloon, one of more than 20 nominees from across campus, was lauded for her unwavering dedication to the College community. Colleagues highlighted her ability to deftly and tirelessly balance the needs of the Communications Department and its staff as well as those of the broader College — often through work that happens behind the scenes but is essential to keeping the College running smoothly.

“I feel extremely grateful and honored to receive this award,” says McAloon, “and to be listed among the other nominees, who are doing such great work at the College.”

The Welsh Award is given every other year to a staff member who has made outstanding contributions to the College and demonstrated commitment to its mission through hard work, creativity, and kindness. It offers an opportunity for students, faculty, and staff to honor those who help make Swarthmore special. Recipients receive a cash award, a student scholarship donation in their name, and a trophy crafted from sustainable materials.

McAloon, an administrative coordinator and executive project coordinator from the Office of Communications who works closely with Vice President for Communications and Marketing Andy Hirsch, expressed deep gratitude for the recognition.

“It is very special to be trusted and valued by your boss and colleagues,” she says. “I feel immensely lucky to work with such knowledgeable people who recognize and encourage building talent and skills. 

“I'm also proud to be part of the behind-the-scenes work that administrative assistants and coordinators do every day to make Swarthmore tick," she adds.

At the meeting, President Val Smith reflected on the legacy of Suzanne P. Welsh, for whom the award is named, noting her decades of leadership, integrity, and lasting impact on the College. She also extolled the strength of this year’s nominee pool and the many staff members across campus whose daily efforts sustain the community.

Although unable to attend in person, Hirsch shared a video message highlighting McAloon’s wide-ranging contributions as well as the spirit she brings to her work. He emphasized that her impact is both expansive and often unseen, describing her as someone whose efforts touch nearly every corner of campus life.

“It is Lauren's selflessness that is among the many reasons why I and all of our colleagues in Communications and beyond feel she's so deserving of this award,” said Hirsch.

He illustrated McAloon’s work through examples spanning large-scale institutional projects and small but crucial details — from improving Commencement logistics and coordinating campus signage to supporting events, managing complex collaborations, and tackling hands-on tasks when needed. The throughline, he said, is McAloon’s initiative and consistency.

“Lauren is willing to take on any project, big or small, and help out wherever and however she can,” said Hirsch. “Her work touches so many people and helps strengthen the College in ways that few can ever fully appreciate.”