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Judith Josephs, J.D., Ed.D. ’63, ’65G received the George Ellison ’54 Volunteer of the Year Award for her outstanding contributions through dedicated volunteer service to ����ֱ��. The award is chosen annually by the president of the alumni association. Josephs, who holds two degrees in education from the university, is an ardent volunteer for the ����ֱ�� Alumni Association’s board of directors, serving as a legacy member on the nominations and awards committee, funding a scholarship for students from Lynn, continuously making connections for Lynn youth to Salem State, and by loyally attending numerous campus events and celebrations annually. Josephs is well known on the North Shore as the creator, producer and host of “History of Success,” a series airing on Lynn Community Television focused on community leaders and the organizations they serve. “I’m honored that Salem State has chosen to recognize my commitment to the university and the North Shore community,” said Josephs. “As I highlight regional leaders through ‘History of Success,’ I am continuously proud of how many are within the Salem State community. These leaders and their work demonstrate the university’s significant impact on the region.”

Josephs has proudly featured members of the Salem State community on “History of Success,” including members of the university’s leadership discussing Salem State’s partnerships with the Lynn community, and professors in various academic disciplines, including health care studies, media + communication, psychology, social work, and world languages and cultures. 

Pedro M. Soto ’09 received the Rising Star Award, given to those who received degrees within the past 15 years, for his significant contributions to society through professional and philanthropic work. Soto graduated from Salem State in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in sociology with a public policy focus and is currently Creative Economy Senior Fellow at MassDevelopment. The agency is the state’s development finance agency and land bank, and  to stimulate economic growth. Through these collaborations, MassDevelopment helps create jobs, increase the number of housing units, revitalize urban environments, and address factors limiting economic growth including transportation, energy and infrastructure deficiencies. He also serves on the racial equity committee of the Essex County Community Foundation (ECCF). This committee advises ECCF staff and trustees in its current and evolving racial equity work and holds the organization accountable for the actions needed to effectively bring about change related to diversity, inclusion and equity.

“It’s a privilege to receive this recognition,” said Soto. “I’m fortunate to have the opportunity to work alongside passionate and talented community members in Lynn, Springfield, Fitchburg, and New Bedford as they leverage arts and culture to advance equitable neighborhood based economic development initiatives.”

According to Mike Mitchell ’07, associate director for alumni relations at Salem State, “Judith and Pedro are two prime examples of alumni who are having a tangible impact in the community. They embody the university’s mission to graduate a community of learners who contribute responsibly and creatively to a global society, serving as resources to advance the region’s cultural, social and economic development. We are so proud to call them Vikings.”

To learn more about the alumni association or to nominate a Salem State graduate for an annual award, please visit