Seniors Anne LaBelle and John Beirne have been selected to receive the 2025-2026 Thomas A. Melucci Jr. Memorial Scholarship, an award that annually provides full tuition to two seniors who have demonstrated significant spiritual and personal growth throughout their time at Saint Anselm College.
Anne LaBelle is a Forensic Science major with a minor in Biology, and a dream of analyzing biological evidence as a criminalist. On campus, LaBelle works as an undergraduate research assistant in the Biology Department and serves as both Community Coordinator and Student Support Manager at the Meelia Center. Her active leadership at Foster and Adoptive Parents Night Out (FAPNO) and enthusiastic participation in Road for Hope highlight LaBelle’s desire to get involved in any way she can. This upcoming year, LaBelle is adding to her resume with a new role as a B.R.E.A.K. leader with Campus Ministry. She is a regular volunteer at the Manchester School District and Manchester Animal Shelter and continues to give back to the local community in a variety of meaningful ways.
LaBelle’s favorite part of being Anselmian is the people she’s had the chance to learn from, work with, and grow alongside. “I’ve had the privilege of working with amazing leaders who have shown me what it truly means to serve others with compassion and dedication,” says LaBelle. “Through the generosity and vision of Mr. and Mrs. Melucci, I have been given not just financial support but also the inspiration and encouragement to pursue my dreams wholeheartedly.”
John Beirne is a double major in American Studies & Legal Studies, a career path he discovered after falling in love with American history and precise decision making. “I want to be a part of the decision to protect people from being harmed,” says Beirne. “I want to use my skills and my love of the law to help people.”
Beirne’s commitment to involvement outside of academics at Saint Anselm goes without contest. As early as his freshman year, Beirne found his place as a dedicated student athlete on the Men’s Club Rugby team. By collaborating with campus administration and several teammates, he helped to transform the once small team into a thriving tournament contender. In addition to rugby, Beirne leads Athletes Bible Study through Campus Ministry, has assisted in community engagement with the Meelia Center, and is a member of the Irish Society, Campus Activities Board (CAB), and Student Engagement and Leadership (SEAL). He has thoroughly enjoyed his time at Saint Anselm and considers attending to be one of the best decisions he has ever made.
“This scholarship means the world to me,” says Beirne. “It has allowed me to focus on my academics and has been a huge help to my family . . . I am unbelievably grateful for the peace of mind it has given me.”
The Thomas A. Melucci Jr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship was established by Thomas and Gail Melucci as a memorial for their son, Thomas, who graduated from Saint Anselm in 1988. Mr. and Mrs. Melucci remain closely involved with the scholarship, serving on the committee that selects recipients each year. Mr. Melucci is a former trustee of the college.