The 2020 Colleen contestants gather at the Sons of Erin Jan. 12. (Photo by Marc St.Onge)
WESTFIELD – Thirteen young women are hoping to be named Westfield’s Colleen or a member of her court this year.
The women include several Westfield High School and Southwick Regional School seniors as well as two Westfield State University students. While their experiences, interests and talents differ, one thing they all have in common is their Irish heritage.
To be considered for the Sons of Erin annual Colleen contest, participants must prove their Irish ancestry, be unmarried and age 17-22. The 13 hopefuls met Jan. 12 at the Sons of Erin to review expectations of the Colleen and prepare for the Colleen Ball Feb. 7 at Chez Josef in Agawam.
A panel of judges will interview participants the day before the Ball and the Colleen and her Court will be named that night. The women will participate in several events leading up to the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade on March 22.
Colleen Committee volunteer and past court member Tracy Oleksak said the Colleen is a tradition that honors what the Colleen represents.
“She embodies a pure heart, service, kindness, strength and tradition,” said Oleksak. noting that it is not a beauty pageant. “The Colleen and her court should be well-rounded young women who can serve as role models to others. They are judged equally on intellect, personality, poise and appearance.”
The Colleen receives her tiara and a voucher for a trip for two to Ireland, and she and the members of her court also receive an Irish sweater, kilt and claddagh ring.
The 2020 Colleen contestants are:
Hannah Mary Baker, 17, Senior, Westfield High School
Hannah Elizabeth Bean, 18, Senior, Westfield High School
Jillian Rose Conroy, 18, Senior, Westfield High School
Megan Lee Danahey, 17, Senior, Westfield High School
Katelyn Joan Flaherty, 17, Senior, Westfield High School
McKenzie Grace Augustine Kiltonic, 17, Senior, Westfield High School
Meghan Riley Lacas, 18, Freshman, Westfield State University (from Westfield)
Emily Marie Langlois, 17, Senior, Westfield High School
Kealyn Cecile Matuszczak, 17, Senior, Westfield High School
Moira Quinlan McDonald, 19, Sophomore, Westfield State University (from Westfield)
Brigid Mary Moriarty, 18, Senior, Westfield High School
Kathleen Megan Shea, 17, Senior, Southwick Regional School
Shannon Rowan Sullivan, 17, Senior, Westfield High School
