Bay Path University proudly awarded an honorary degree to Eileen Stern in recognition of her extraordinary commitment to student success, STEM education, and undergraduate research. Inspired by her father, Henry S. Stern ’39, a grateful alumnus of the former Bay Path Institute, Eileen has continued her family’s legacy of philanthropy through transformational support for science education and hands-on research opportunities. Her generosity has funded scholarships, research initiatives, laboratory renovations, and endowed support for faculty and student research, including the creation of the Eileen C. Stern Science Research Lab and the Eileen Stern Science Research Endowed Fund. A former clinical nutritionist, Eileen remains deeply engaged with the University community, regularly mentoring and encouraging Stern Scholars as they pursue careers and advanced study in the sciences.
Honorary Degree Citation
Eileen Stern
The legendary and pioneering scientist Jane Goodall once said, “What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.”
With intention and quiet determination, Eileen Stern choses to make a profound difference by opening doors for young women in STEM as they pursue their aspirations in scientific research, healthcare, and beyond. In her gracious and unassuming way, she is a steadfast champion for the next generation of women in the sciences.
Through her philanthropy and unwavering commitment to science, exemplified by the creation of the Stern Scholars Research Program for our students, she has planted the seeds for discoveries yet to come: advancing the promise of breakthroughs in cancer, Alzheimer’s, and other diseases that have long challenged humanity. Just as powerfully, her support is shaping future leaders on the front lines of healthcare, whose impact will be felt in communities, hospitals, and clinics for years to come.
Guided by an infectious curiosity and a deep belief in the power of education, she has elevated our science programs, transforming them into state-of-the art learning environments defined by innovation, distinction, and possibility. She is an engaged mentor, ever present for our students—celebrating their achievements, encouraging their ambitions, and inspiring their confidence.
Recognizing that great institutions are built through great faculty, she endowed the University’s first chair in the sciences, ensuring visionary leadership and sustained excellence in research and teaching.
Her legacy will be measured by the lives she has empowered, the dreams she has expanded, and the discoveries her generosity has made possible.
In recognition of her enduring impact in advancing women in STEM and her steadfast support of the mission of this University, we are proud to confer upon Eileen Stern the degree of Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa.
