Bridget Moynahan, winner of the JFK Award from the St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke.
Reminder Publishing submitted photo
HOLYOKE — The St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke announced that actress, author and model Bridget Moynahan is the 2025 recipient of the John F. Kennedy National Award.
The award is presented annually to an American of Irish descent who has distinguished themselves in their chosen career, and who demonstrates the values of family, faith and community exemplified by former President John F. Kennedy. Kennedy was the first recipient of the National Award and it was renamed in his honor after his death.
Moynahan is known for her role as Erin Reagan in the long-running hit television series “Blue Bloods” and has captivated audiences with her talent, grace and commitment to storytelling.
Recently, Moynahan reprised her role as Natasha, Carrie Bradshaw’s rival and Mr. Big’s wife in HBO’s “Sex and the City” reboot as well as “And Just Like That.”
She also starred in and produced the award-winning short film Swipe NYC opposite Richard Schiff and Lisa Edelstein.
Moynahan first starred in Disney’s “Coyote Ugly” for producer Jerry Bruckheimer.
She went on to star in numerous blockbuster films including the futuristic summer hit “I, Robot,” “The Recruit” and “The Sum of All Fears.”
In addition to her successful acting career, Moynahan is an accomplished author and advocate, embodying the spirit of resilience and pride rooted in Irish heritage.
She serves as a spokesperson for The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, an organization dedicated to providing joy, community, and healing to children with serious illnesses and their families.
She also serves as an ambassador for Global Citizens, an international education and advocacy organization working to catalyze the movement to end extreme poverty and promote social justice and equity through the lens of intersectionality.
A native of Longmeadow, Moynahan’s accomplishments in entertainment and her commitment to uplifting others serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Irish American community, according to the committee.
“I am looking forward to coming to Holyoke for the parade weekend and celebrating with friends and family. It’s starting to feel like a reunion of sorts. I think every kid grows up with dreaming of being in the parade and for me, that was the St. Patrick’s Day parade. I am definitely checking one off of my bucket list,” Moynahan explained about what she is looking forward to come parade day.
When asked about winning the award, Moynahan said, “It feels a bit surreal receiving the JFK award. Like most, I am always thinking of what’s next. With this honor, it has allowed me the space to reflect on where I came from and the path I took to get to this moment. My parents supported me in my dreams that took me to NYC, Europe, LA and everywhere in between. This honor feels like I am being welcomed back home.”
Celebrations recognizing Moynahan will take place on parade weekend and include highlights such as an acknowledgment at the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Road Race and a featured position in the grand Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade.
Additionally, she will be honored at the JFK Awards Dinner at the Delaney House on Saturday, March 22.
The public is invited to join the St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke at the reception. Ticket information is available at holyokestpatricksparade.com.
2025 Parade President John Beaulieu talked about Moynahan and her recognition.
He said, “Bridget Moynahan represents the very best of the Irish American spirit — dedicated, talented and passionate about giving back. Her career, her values and her pride in her Irish roots make her an inspiring choice for this year’s John F. Kennedy National Award. The committee looks forward to honoring Bridget and welcoming her to our cherished celebration of Irish culture and community.”
Moynahan explained, “Growing up in an Irish family has shaped my values of resilience, family and community; qualities I see celebrated so beautifully in the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade. To be honored with the JFK Award is deeply humbling, as it represents not only a connection to my heritage but also a legacy of pride. I am grateful to the committee for this incredible recognition and proud to stand with those who celebrate Irish culture and history so vibrantly.”
The list of past John F. Kennedy National Award honorees is a prestigious group including most recently, the honor went to Mike Gorman, the longtime play-by-play commentator for the Boston Celtics.
Other past notables include owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers Arthur J. Rooney (1980), legendary actress Maureen O’Hara (1982), NCAA Basketball Coach Frank McGuire, actor Robert L. Stack (1996), NASA Astronaut Cady Coleman (2004), inspirational father-son duo “Team Hoyt” — Rick and Dick Hoyt (2014) and acclaimed Professional Boxer “Irish” Micky Ward (2016).
The 72nd Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade will be hosted on Sunday, March 23, and the 48th Holyoke St. Patrick’s Road Race on Saturday, March 22.
