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Pops on the Heights: the Barbara and Jim Cleary Scholarship Gala raises $12.8 million for student scholarships. Thank you for your support!

The Cleary Legacy

Deeply passionate about philanthropy, higher education, and the arts, the late Barbara and James F. Cleary ’50, H’93, founded the annual Pops on the Heights BC scholarship gala in 1993. Jim—a BC Trustee and founder of the Fides and President’s Circle annual giving societies—and Barbara worked tirelessly to help grow the event to become the University’s largest annual fundraiser, which has raised nearly $130 million in Pops scholarships. Today, Jim and Barbara’s children (Kara ’84, MA’91; Kristin ’89, JD’93; and James Jr., P’18) continue their legacy as Pops benefactors.

Media: Boston College Pops on the Heights

Read more about how one epic night can impact the lives of so many.

BC’s Grace Collins ’22 sings Garland

Wearing ruby red shoes, Grace Collins ’22 channeled Judy Garland when she sang “The Man That Got Away” at the 29th annual Pops on the Heights scholarship gala in 2021.

Hitting a High Note

At the 29th annual gala, Pops on the Heights raises a record $14.5 million for student support.

Pops on the Heights

Featuring ‘Hamilton’ Tony winner Leslie Odom Jr., BC’s largest fundraising event for financial aid this year raises more than $12.3 million for student scholarships.

A stellar Pops

BC's 25th annual Pops on the Heights gala featured the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra, guest soloist Jennifer Hudson, a tribute to John Williams, and a record $14M raised for student scholarships.

Parents and Pops

A highlight of this year's Parents' Weekend is Pops on the Heights, with guest artist Kristin Chenoweth.

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Tag #BCPops and @BCAlumni in your Boston College Pops on the Heights moments and memories!