Mark Brady ’80

45th Reunion Committee, Member | The Fund for Providence College, Donor | Class Phonathon Volunteer, Former  |  Class President, Former (1976-1980)

What book are you currently reading? 

I believe we consume a lot of reading material — perhaps even too much — compared to when we were at PC, especially in this digital age. I remember the vast amount we read in Civ and across all our classes. As a history major, I can’t forget tackling Tolstoy’s War and Peace — 1,421 pages! These days, reading occupies our time in different ways.

I really enjoy listening to music, like the Mavericks and Los Lobos, because it’s so relaxing. Lately, I’ve been complementing this by trying audiobooks. It’s like “hearing” a book being read to you. Currently, I’m listening to Lights Out: An Into Darkness Novel by Navessa Allen.

While a PC student, where was your favorite place to study?   

My favorite study places were on-campus student lounges in dorms, the library, and empty classrooms in Harkins on the weekends.

Which member of the faculty or staff or Dominican friar had a significant impact in your life? How so?    

Father Stuart McPhail ’61 was always ready to offer advice on a wide range of student matters, including navigating life both on- and off-campus. Dr. Donna McCaffrey ’73G, ’83Ph.D., ’87G, a history professor and administrator, was always there to listen, balancing her rigorous administrative duties with a compassionate ear.

In the context of your many years of paying it forward for PC students and faculty, why do you continue to support today’s students with gifts through The Fund for Providence College and PC Athletics?

As students, we were fortunate to have impactful leadership both from the college and from one another, which taught us what it takes to provide strong support in today’s world. We can continue to “live” that experience by sharing what we’ve become, in part due to PC, with future generations of Friars. Our place in PC’s history remains meaningful, and I have great respect for the students who are living it today. I wish them continued success. It’s a special place with special people! I always enjoy meeting a fellow Friar grad.

What’s your favorite PC tradition?

Remembering the friends and classmates we lost in the Aquinas fire at a special Mass on campus each December — may they forever rest in peace. Reunion (of course!), “sit-ins” on Slavin lawn, hanging with friends each year during the holidays, and a good hockey or basketball game win — give me more!