Bridget Moynahan Named 2025 JFK National Award Recipient by the St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke

The St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke is thrilled to announce that renowned actress, author, and model,

Bridget Moynahan, is the 2025 recipient of the prestigious 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 President Kennedy. John F. Kennedy was the first recipient of the National Award and it was renamed in his honor after his death.

Moynahan, best known for her iconic role as Erin Reagan in the long-running hit television series Blue Bloods, has captivated audiences with her talent, grace, and commitment to storytelling. Recently, Moynahan reprised her iconic role as Natasha, Carrie Bradshaw’s rival and Mr. Big’s wife in HBO’s Sex and the City reboot 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 captured the attention of audiences 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 with Will Smith, The Recruit with Al Pacino and Colin Farrell, and The Sum of All Fears, teaming with Ben Affleck in the political thriller based on the bestselling novel written by Tom Clancy – the JFK Award recipient for the 1992 Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade.

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.
“Bridget Moynahan represents the very best of the Irish American spirit—dedicated, talented, and passionate about giving back,” said John Beaulieu, 2025 Parade President. “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.”

“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,” said Bridget Moynahan. “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, a veritable "Who’s Who" of Irish Americans. 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).

Celebrations recognizing Ms. Moynahan are woven into the fabric of 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 in Holyoke on Saturday, March 22. The public is invited to join the St. Patrick's Committee of Holyoke at the Reception. Ticket information is available here.

The 72nd Holyoke St. Patrick's Parade will be held on Sunday, March 23, and the 48th Holyoke St. Patrick’s Road Race on Saturday, March 22, 2025.