A Life in the Public Interest: A Conversation with John Winthrop Sears - Continued

Reflecting upon his distinguished career, which also included runs for Governor and Mayor of Boston, Sears said his time as MDC commissioner was particularly rewarding because “you could see a problem and do something about it.”  Being a doer and an activist are the driving forces of Sears’ life. 

Sears’ insights on current events were keen, tempered by a long and broad view of nearly a century of political and social movements.  Bringing past together with present, Sears urged all of us to do a better job of being citizens if we are to preserve the republic Benjamin Franklin helped create.  He cited the current health care debate as an example. “The focus should be on the millions who don’t have health care,” he said, “not the impact proposed legislation would have on those who do.”   

Dr. Franklin, said Sears, created a new American society - as a meritocracy after he was completely disillusioned by the British monarchy. As a nation, he mused, we are always seeking to live up to the ideals of our founding fathers.  Sears suggested that as a nation, we seem to be growing more comfortable with diversity – reflected in BFIT’s student body – which strengthens that meritocracy.  He touted BFIT as a place that “does great things for very special kids who will in turn do great things for us.”   

As the evening concluded, Sears reminded us that, “We have to love one another, care for one another” and give up our superfluous possessions for the needy if we are to be deemed worthy of John Winthrop’s image of Boston – and America – as a shining city on a hill. 

The lively discussion was moderated by Northeastern University, Professor William Fowler, Jr, who also chairs the Old North Foundation.  The presentation was preceded by a tour of BFIT’s historic 1908 building led by interim President Stephen Lozen. 

Those interested in joining Ben’s Friends should contact Alla Yakovlev at (617) 423-4630 x163 or ayakovlev@bfit.edu.   

More Ben’s Friends Society events are planned for 2010.