From the first note to the final balloon drop, September 30 was a night to remember as talented Eagles, renowned musicians, and special guest artist Jon Batiste took the stage in Conte Forum. Pops on the Heights: The Barbara and Jim Cleary Scholarship Gala, now in its 30th year, raised a record $14,508,000—resulting in 342 BC students receiving Pops Scholarships this year.

University Trustee Patti Kraft and her husband, Jonathan, BC parents, co-chaired the 2022 event. The Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra headlined the program under the direction of Keith Lockhart. Joining the Pops for performances were tenor Maxwell Korman ’23; the “Screaming Eagles” Marching Band led by David P. Healey; and BC’s University Chorale, under the direction of John Finney. Additionally, some of BC’s best student vocalists and groups were featured in an extended pre-show concert. 

“For three decades, Pops on the Heights has brought out the best in the Boston College community,” said Patti Kraft. “It has become a cornerstone of Family Weekend and has shaped the future for thousands of BC students. If Pops founders Jim and Barbara Cleary were with us here tonight, they would see the legacy they have created—from an impressive night of performances, to the incredible Pops Scholars who are using their talents to set the world aflame.”