2026 John F. Kennedy National Award Recipient Announced
ST. PATRICK’S COMMITTEE OF HOLYOKE NAMES LOS ANGELES CHIEF OF POLICE, JIM MCDONNELL, AS 2026 JOHN F. KENNEDY NATIONAL AWARD RECIPIENT
Honoring a Career Defined by Service, Courage, and Leadership
Holyoke, Mass. – January 27, 2026 – The St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke is proud to announce that Jim McDonnell, nationally respected law enforcement leader and public safety innovator, has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the esteemed John F. Kennedy National Award. This honor recognizes individuals whose achievements and commitment to service reflect the enduring legacy of President John F. Kennedy.
McDonnell’s distinguished career in public safety spans more than four decades and is marked by integrity, community partnership, and a deep commitment to reform. A native of Brookline, Massachusetts, he began his law enforcement career in 1981 as a graduate of the Los Angeles Police Academy. Over nearly 30 years with the Los Angeles Police Department, he rose through every rank to become First Assistant Chief, serving as second‑in‑command. During this time, he played a significant role in advancing community‑based policing strategies that strengthened trust across Los Angeles’ diverse neighborhoods.
Following his LAPD tenure, McDonnell served as Chief of Police in Long Beach, California, where he expanded community engagement efforts and oversaw notable reductions in crime. In 2014, he was elected the 32nd Sheriff of Los Angeles County, leading the largest sheriff’s department in the United States with a focus on accountability, constitutional policing, and partnership with federal, state, and local agencies.
In 2024, McDonnell was sworn in as the 59th Chief of the Los Angeles Police Department, becoming the first individual to hold senior executive leadership roles in three of Los Angeles County’s largest law enforcement agencies. In this role, he continues to champion public safety, transparency, and community trust.
“President Kennedy challenged us to serve others and work for the common good,” said Jim Wildman, Parade President. “Jim McDonnell’s distinguished career exemplifies those ideals. His leadership, integrity, and lifelong commitment to community make him an outstanding choice for this honor.”
“Receiving the John F. Kennedy National Award is both humbling and deeply meaningful to me,” said Chief McDonnell. “As a first-generation Irish American, this recognition reflects the values of service and community that my parents instilled in me. I am honored to join such a distinguished group of past recipients and grateful to the St. Patrick’s Committee and the City of Holyoke for this extraordinary honor.” (Full video message can be accessed here.)
The list of past John F. Kennedy National Award honorees is a celebrated Who’s Who of Irish Americans. Recent recipient Bridget Moynahan (2025) joins a prestigious roster including Pittsburgh Steelers owner Arthur J. Rooney (1980); legendary actress Maureen O’Hara (1982); NCAA coach Frank McGuire (1985); NASA astronaut Cady Coleman (2004); father‑son duo “Team Hoyt” (2014); professional boxer “Irish” Micky Ward (2016); and long‑time Boston Celtics broadcaster Mike Gorman (2024).
Celebrations recognizing Chief McDonnell will take place throughout Parade Weekend and include acknowledgment at the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Road Race, a featured position in the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade, and the John F. Kennedy Award Dinner, held Saturday, March 21 at The Log Cabin. Tickets and event information are available here.
