Class of 2025: Seniors to Remember

Abby Duffy immigrated from Ireland as a child and embraced the challenge of navigating new systems and perspectives—experiences that fuel her commitment to advocacy, education, and community impact. Early on she knew she wanted to help people, and chose the Woods College Criminal and Social Justice program to facilitate that goal.

Her time at Boston College has been defined by growth, resilience, and a desire to make a difference; she is grateful for the experiences that have shaped her personally and professionally. As a young college student, she welcomed opportunities to grow as a leader, give back to the community, and prepare academically for a future in law. Her undergraduate years have prepared her for post-graduation pursuits: this fall, she will enroll in the University of California Irvine School of Law.


What experiences at BC had the most significant impact on you, and why?

I’ve had so many memorable and impactful experiences during my time at Boston College, but one stands out: The Boston College “Screaming Eagles” Marching Band. When I decided to major in criminal and social justice, I knew I would be able to learn the skills necessary to enact change and continue to stand up for what is right. These skills led me to be elected to the executive board of the band, where I continued my 13-year journey of playing the trumpet. In this role, I worked closely with different organizations to give back to the community by hosting Boston-area events. For one, I spearheaded an instrument “petting zoo” for a local elementary school, through which the children experienced the impact of music. In addition to giving back, being part of this team allowed me to experience once-in-a-lifetime moments, such as performing during halftime shows for the Boston Celtics and the New England Patriots.

Serving on the executive board and participating as a trumpet player enhanced my abilities to collaborate, solve problems quickly, and support others in reaching their potential—skills that have shaped my life.


How has your passion for film and advocacy complemented your social justice studies?

Whether I’m in a classroom or behind a camera, my focus is on influencing positive change. Through my work on film sets in Boston and at BC, I’ve facilitated initiatives—both on and off-campus—to explore the role of film in society. These experiences have underscored my commitment to social justice.

I directed an award-winning documentary, “Feeding Hearts: A Village Table Wellesley Story” (2024), which brought attention to a local food relief organization, and the lives and experiences of the hardworking people involved. A series of interviews and interactive footage captured the essence of Village Table: a community built on mutual support, dedication, and a shared commitment to making a difference in the Greater Boston area. As I screened the documentary for over 200 attendees at the premiere, I couldn’t help but notice how many members of the Boston College community were in attendance. As I stood on stage and delivered my opening remarks, I was reminded that I have been immersed in a community that is inherently giving in nature, and that is reflected in its faculty and student body. This event represented my commitment to fighting for the greater good—a dedication I bring to every story I tell and every cause I champion.

What advice would you give to incoming Woods College students, and why?

In high school, I decided that I wanted to pursue a degree in criminal and social justice at Boston College, but not in the conventional way of so many 18-year-old Americans. Woods College has allowed me to achieve my academic goals as an undergraduate student while being able to work and experience the world beyond my college campus. Over the past four years, I’ve attended classes almost every weekday evening, enjoying the company of peers my age as well as those 40 years my senior.

I would advise incoming students to immerse themselves in their new community as well as to reach out to their classmates, so that they may learn from them and grow both personally and academically. These connections will open them to new ideas and perspectives, enriching their college journey and creating a strong support system that will serve them well throughout their time in school and beyond.

What will you miss most about BC?

I have formed some of my strongest connections during my time at BC, and among them, my relationships with the professors and staff are what I will miss the most. Whether it was something as simple as asking a question about an assignment or inviting them to my film premiere, the faculty at Boston College have consistently exemplified what it means to be “men and women for others.” Of note, John and Susan Michalczyk have been instrumental in my continued pursuit of social justice through film, offering unwavering support throughout my journey. David Goodman and Elizabeth Shlala, some of my very first professors at BC, instilled in me a sense of wonder and a desire to live an examined life. Others, like Amy LaCombe and Erica Graf, have given me a home-away-from-home in the CSOM Undergraduate Dean’s Office, empowering me to grow and expand my professional network. Each of these faculty members has shown me the profound impact educators can have, and the importance of staying true to who you are. As I prepare to embark on the next stage of my life, I know I will miss them deeply.

What was your most influential academic experience?

I remember arriving at my first class on campus and feeling the buzz in the room—everyone was anxious for their first day. It was my Examined Life course, taught by Professor David Goodman, who is now the dean of the Woods College. The first day of class can be daunting for any freshman, but Professor Goodman made sure we all felt welcome, especially since it was a course designed specifically for first-year students. Being my first impression of Boston College, the class left me feeling assured that I had made the right decision in choosing this school. We explored topics in sociology, psychology, and what it means to lead an “examined life.” This course laid the foundation for the next four years I would spend at Boston College, challenging me to think critically, reflect deeply, and engage meaningfully with the world around me.

You not only attended class as a student but also worked at the University. What have been among your favorite places on campus to study and/or spend any downtime?

Boston College is known for its stunning campus, and there are plenty of iconic spots, like the area outside Gasson Hall when the trees are in bloom or the inside of Bapst Library, often compared to a scene from “Harry Potter.” But one of my favorite, lesser-known places is the Fulton 315 Foyer. Having worked there since my freshman year, it has become a second home to me. It used to be [Carroll School of Management Senior Associate Dean] Ethan Sullivan’s office, but during the summer between my sophomore and junior year, it underwent a major renovation to transform it into a communal study space. I spent that summer reorganizing shelves and helping shape the space into a welcoming environment where people could study, grab a snack, or just catch up with friends. I think I speak for everybody who has come through our office that it has become a great space to unwind and take a break from our busy lives.