August 24, 2021
Gift from John Powers ’86 and Lauren Powers ’87 adds to endowment, benefits Slavin Center
By Greg Reid
Reunion Weekend at Providence College was approaching in June. John J. Powers ’86, a member of his reunion committee, knew how generous his class has been — and could be. The Class of 1986 was nearing its goal of raising $2.5 million to celebrate its 35th reunion. John and his wife, Lauren Barba Powers ’87, made sure they would achieve it.
“The Classes of ’86 and ’87 have been very fortunate over the years, and so many of us have been in a position to give back to the College,” John Powers said. “Between the opportunity to celebrate in person after the pandemic and to reach the goals around our 35th reunion, the timing was right.”
With generosity of spirit and purpose, John and Lauren Powers, also parents of a graduate from the Class of 2011, stepped forward to make a significant contribution to Providence College’s endowment.
The Powers’ gift, at an amount they prefer not to publicize, is unrestricted, meaning the College can use it for any purpose. In recognition of their generosity, a pavilion named in their honor will be constructed outside the Slavin atrium as a place where students can socialize and the college can host outdoor events.
As the College marks the 50th anniversary of the opening of Slavin Center in August, the timing feels providential.
“The endowment is the lifeblood of the College,” John Powers said. “If our gift can be put toward scholarships for those in need and support the resources that students seek at the Slavin Center, such as the Center for Career Education and Professional Development, we would be very comfortable with that.”
Longtime supporters of the College, John and Lauren are members of the St. Dominic Society, which recognizes leadership giving levels, and the Loyal Friar Society, which recognizes those who consistently donate to PC. A plaque in the student lounge in Slavin Center reflects an earlier contribution from them.
“We are grateful that we are able to give back to PC, as it has done so much for our spiritual and educational growth,” said Lauren.
John, who retired four years ago as chief operating officer and president of AEP Industries, Inc. in Montvale, N.J., has been a member of the PC Board of Trustees for nine years. He cited the couple’s faith in the leadership of College President Rev. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P. ’78, ’82G, and in the trustees, who have prioritized endowment growth. The College’s endowment value as of April 20, 2021, is about $300 million.
“John and Lauren embody the very best of the Providence College,” Father Sicard said. “Their tireless commitment to our community is a shining example of the impact service and generosity has on others.”
“Their investment aligns well with the College’s strategic plan and positions us for success as we look forward to our next fundraising campaign,” said Gregory T. Waldron, senior vice president for institutional advancement. “It ensures opportunities for others for years to come.”
John said he learned the value of hard work while growing up in Braintree, Mass. He said it wasn’t hard to find other achievers on campus.
“Just about all my friends were work-study kids. In fact, Lauren and I were working the first time we met.”
John was a lifeguard at the Taylor Natatorium when Lauren arrived there with the children she was babysitting for a faculty member.
“We have so many meaningful relationships that were born during our experience at Providence College, including ours,” said Lauren.
John studied accountancy at PC. Lauren studied the humanities, an education that built upon her love of art and travel. They have four children, including Ryan Powers ’11.
“Ryan loved visiting the campus with us when he was younger,” said Lauren. “We were delighted that he chose to become a Friar.”
In the summer of 2017, John opened the next chapter of his life by helping Ryan establish RJP Packaging in Providence, a one-stop solution for packaging, safety, janitorial and sanitary products and equipment.
Throughout his career, John has maintained close ties with classmates and the college. He happily joined friends in New York City for fundraising activities. In the 20 years before the COVID-19 pandemic, he met every September with about 30 classmates for a golf weekend in Newport.
It’s a tradition they intend to resume this year. Bonds like that, he said, help him recognize how fortunate he is that at age 57 he can enjoy the company of friends he met at 18.
“I realize how fortunate I was and how indebted I am to the school,” John said. “There’s a work ethic that PC graduates share, and as alums we have a responsibility to nurture that where we can.
“Not a week goes by that I don’t get a text or a call from one of 20 or 30 guys from PC. Everyone’s checking in on each other, your family, your life. That’s the Providence experience. It’s a gift you can’t put a price on.”
