Two Suffolk University seniors, Sean Henry and Andrea Nastri, were the student speakers at the dedication ceremony for the new Michael and Larry Smith Residence Hall.
Henry, an ice hockey player representing Suffolk’s student-athletes, noted the Smiths’ past gifts that led to the creation of the Michael S. Smith and Larry E. Smith Fitness Center on campus.
“When it comes to being a student-athlete at Suffolk, you join a family bigger than you can expect,” said Henry. “Larry and Michael Smith, you came to Suffolk University in the 1960s and I know Larry was a star on the basketball team, so you’ve known for a long time how great this family is. Your loyalty to Suffolk and your numerous generous donations have changed this program and I hope that one day I can show half the generosity that you’ve shown this University. This residence hall is a great tribute to the two of you. We can’t thank you enough for everything you have given us.”
Nastri, a third-year residence assistant at the hall, said as a freshman, she met two of her best college friends in the residence hall.
“I was delighted to live in the city and be at Suffolk University and with that positivity, I met a lot of friends who shared my enthusiasm,” said Nastri. “This is not just a building across the street from the historic Boston Common. This is not just a Suffolk University building to me. This is my home. This is where I’ve grown up. This is where I’ve grown up. This is where I’ve connected with others. This is my place.
“Smith Hall will be the name people remember years from now when they laugh about the memories they made here,” said Nastri. “Smith Hall will embrace students with open arms in to a safe and inclusive environment.”