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2025 alumni award winners with GAB members
From left: GAB Member Mark Longo ’89, GAB Vice Chair Annemarie Frank ’88, Honoree Mary Ann Jackson ’95, GAB Member Philip Silveira ’02, Honoree Laila Altanbour ’25, Honoree Lance Colwell ’92 and GAB Member Monique Jefferson ’96. Photo by Maddie Schroeder.

The Emerging Alumni Leader Award honors a graduating senior who exemplifies Bentley’s values of impact, inclusivity and honesty. The Harry C. Bentley Alumni Achievement Award recognizes alumni who demonstrate lifelong excellence in their professions, communities and service to Bentley. 

This year’s honorees include Laila Altanbour ’25, recipient of the Emerging Alumni Leader Award, and Lance Colwell ’92 and Mary Ann Jackson ’95, recipients of the Harry C. Bentley Alumni Achievement Award, recognized for their extraordinary contributions to their fields and communities.

Building Belonging Through Leadership

Laila holding her award softly smiling at the cameraLaila Altanbour ’25 was a dedicated leader and advocate throughout her time at Bentley. She served as a tour guide and fellow in the Office of Undergraduate Admission, helping prospective students feel welcomed and informed. Her leadership earned her the 2024 Student Leader of the Year award, and membership in the Falcon Society, which honors students who excel in their fields of study and also make significant contributions that improve the Bentley experience for their fellow students and the entire campus community alike.

A champion of diversity and inclusion, the Mosaic Ambassador supported first-generation, commuter and minority students. Her involvement in the Muslim Student Association further reflected her commitment to creating space for underrepresented voices on campus. 

Grounded in her Islamic faith, Altanbour leads with empathy and purpose. Her ability to build inclusive communities and foster meaningful connections has made her a trusted mentor and role model. Her legacy of leadership will continue to inspire future Falcons and alumni alike.

Championing Innovation in Rare Disease Treatment

Lance holding his Harry C. Bentley Alumni Achievement Award, smiling at the cameraLance Colwell ’92 has built a career defined by impact and excellence, from biotech breakthroughs to student mentorship. With more than 30 years in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, he began with an internship at 3M Medica in Germany and advanced through roles at major firms like Bayer and Pfizer.

His 14-year tenure at Biogen marked a career high point. There, he led global teams and played a key role in launching Spinraza, a groundbreaking treatment for spinal muscular atrophy and one of the fastest FDA-approved drugs in history.

Colwell’s commitment to rare disease treatment continues through his work with the Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics, where he helps lead public-private partnerships to accelerate progress.  

Colwell’s influence extends beyond industry. As a member of Bentley’s Arts & Science Advisory Board and a frequent classroom guest speaker, Colwell is a dedicated mentor to students exploring careers in biotech. He’s known for offering real-world insights and personal guidance that students describe as “pivotal” and “inspiring.” 

Empowering Communities, Elevating Voices

Mary Ann holding her Harry C. Bentley Alumni Achievement Award, smiling at the cameraMary Ann Jackson ’95 is a financial leader and community advocate who is reshaping the future of STEM and corporate inclusion. She has built a career defined by leadership, service and advocacy. As vice president of process management at Prudential Financial, she brings nearly three decades of experience to the finance and actuarial space. Jackson has made a significant impact in the nonprofit sector as well. She is the co-national director of Prudential’s Black Leadership Forum, a 1,600-member business resource group where she drives strategic initiatives that foster belonging and professional growth. Her passion for equity and education is equally evident in her 20-year tenure as CFO of the Girls Action Network where she helped prepare young women for careers in STEM and in her leadership with Black Data Processing Associates.

Her commitment to uplifting underserved communities began in high school and has only grown stronger. Through her work, Jackson is helping diversify the STEM pipeline and break down barriers for women and underrepresented groups. 

Shining a Spotlight on Bentley’s Outstanding Alumni

Check Out the 2025 Bentley Alumni Conference