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Alumni Engagement
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Dr. Joseph Bonvie ’94, ’99G, of Boston, has been named the 2026 recipient of the Dr. Marilyn E. Flaherty ’54 Distinguished Graduate Award. Established by the Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation, Inc., the award recognizes distinguished alumni for their outstanding professional accomplishments.
Bonvie earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from Salem State in 1994 and a master’s degree in counseling psychology in 1999. He later earned a doctorate from the Florida Institute of Technology and is board certified in clinical psychology.
Commissioned into the U.S. Navy in 2002, Bonvie served for 21 years as an operational psychologist, holding several senior leadership positions within the Department of Defense. His roles included Force Psychologist for Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, Director of Operational Psychology for two Naval Special Warfare major commands, Chief Consultant for Navy Operational Psychology, and inaugural Director of the Navy Operational Psychology Fellowship.
His military service earned numerous honors, including Navy Senior Psychologist of the Year, Navy Junior Psychologist of the Year, the Legion of Merit Medal, two Bronze Star Medals, and three Presidential Unit Citations.
“My education at Salem State provided the foundation for a career dedicated to service and leadership,” Bonvie said. “I am honored to receive this recognition from a university that has remained an important part of my journey.”
Since retiring from the Navy, Bonvie has continued supporting veterans and military families through leadership roles in healthcare and athletics. He currently serves as senior director of clinical services for Home Base, a national nonprofit dedicated to providing clinical care and support at no cost to veterans, service members and military families.
“Joe’s career reflects the very best of what Salem State graduates can achieve,” said Mike Mitchell ’07, director of engagement at Salem State. “His leadership, service to our nation and commitment to supporting veterans have had a meaningful impact on countless lives.”
To learn more or to nominate a graduate for an award, please visit salemstate.edu/alumni/awards.