Lifelong Leadership Lessons: A Journey Alum Pays It Forward
For over 15 years, Suffolk undergraduates have had the opportunity to participate in a distinctive leadership program called the Journey. Every year, hundreds of students take part in activities ranging from an afternoon of sailing on the Boston Harbor to a week-long, international, experiential learning trip. Support from Journey alumni and donors like Monica Caggiano, BS ’16, a lead radiation therapist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, help to keep the program financially accessible for students.
According to Monica, the program was instrumental in helping her develop the confidence she has in herself as a leader today. Working in radiation oncology, she not only oversees daily operations but also spearheads quality improvement projects. “The leadership skills I developed through Journey—particularly the ability to collaborate effectively within a team—have been invaluable in my professional growth,” Monica notes. Through the program’s group activities, she learned how to be both a strong leader and a supportive team member. “I learned when to step up and take initiative, but just as importantly, when to step back and empower others to lead. This balance has been crucial in my career, where teamwork is at the heart of providing the highest quality care for our cancer patients. Ensuring that every team member feels heard and valued is a principle I carry with me every day.”
One of the most valuable aspects of the program is the opportunity to travel with classmates—people you see on campus every day—but through Journey, Monica says, “you build deeper friendships and lifelong connections. These shared experiences create lasting memories and teach lessons that extend far beyond the classroom.” In fact, the most transformational experience Monica had with Journey was the Global Leadership Exchange in Barbados. That trip marked her first time traveling internationally, and it was inspiring. “Meeting the remarkable women serving in the Barbados government, visiting their offices, and hearing firsthand about their challenges and triumphs as women in leadership was both eye-opening and empowering. Their resilience and determination left a lasting impression on me, reinforcing the importance of perseverance and self-confidence in professional spaces.”
Overall, the trip broadened Monica’s perspective, deepening her appreciation not only for cultural exchange but also for the power of meaningful connections. “It reinforced my ability to navigate challenges with confidence and embrace new experiences with an open mind—lessons I will carry with me throughout my personal and professional life.”
Monica makes an effort to attend Journey reunions each year and says hearing current students share their stories from the same trips she once took is both nostalgic and inspiring. She also says that supporting the program financially was an easy decision. “I want to ensure that future Suffolk students have access to the same incredible opportunities that shaped my college experience. Journey is a truly unique, powerful program, and I am more than happy to support its mission. I can’t wait to see how it continues to grow and evolve for future generations of Suffolk students.”