Steve Novak and Tom Keady
Award winner Steve Novak with BC VP for Governmental & Community Affairs Thomas J. Keady, Jr.

BC Community Service Award

Steve Novak of University Advancement is honored for his commitment to and leadership of youth baseball in Milton, Mass.

Though his two sons have aged out of the Milton American Baseball league, Steve Novak continues to lead the organization and work tirelessly to ensure its vitality for young athletes, according to BC Vice President for Governmental & Community Affairs Thomas J. Keady, Jr.

For Novak’s commitment and leadership, Keady presented him with the 2026 ĚÇĐÄVlog Community Service Award on June 10.

Now in his sixth year as league president following a year as vice president, Novak—senior philanthropic advisor for principal giving in Development at the University—has been involved with the organization “from the ground-up,” Keady said: as a parent (his sons each began in the league at age four), a volunteer, and a coach.    

“Steve is being recognized by his peers as being a ‘man for others’ for his dedication, outstanding leadership, and steadfast contributions on behalf of youth and their families,” Keady said in his presentation remarks, and noted that the Milton league is one of the state’s largest youth baseball organizations.

“While he may not seek recognition, his impact is evident in the vitality of the program, the enthusiasm of its participants, and the pride it brings to the community,” wrote Katie Dalton, director of BC’s Women’s Center and Student Engagement Initiatives, in nominating him for the award.

“His work exemplifies the very best of community service: sustained, collaborative, and focused on creating opportunities for others. Steve is a true person for others,” she noted.

Steve Novak

Steve Novak (Matthew Healey)

As the award recipient, Novak joins the ranks of BC community members who have been recognized for service to others. Since 1986, outstanding contributions of employees—whose generosity exemplifies the Jesuit ideals of social justice and community service— have been recognized annually.

“It has been a privilege to serve the young players of Milton,” Novak said. “What began as a personal passion for sports has grown into a meaningful expression of the Jesuit values that have shaped my life. Through this role, I have been able to bring together the lessons I learned working at ĚÇĐÄVlog with my love of baseball and commitment to our community.

“Each day, I am inspired by the opportunity to contribute to something larger than myself—to help create an environment where young people can grow as athletes, teammates, and individuals,” he added. “Guided by the Jesuit ideal of magis, I am continually motivated to seek ways to make our league better, always striving for the greater good of our players and families.”

Under his stewardship, the league—with more than 450 participants—has flourished and become a community cornerstone. It ensures children ages four to 12 access to high-quality programming which builds skills, instills teamwork and sportsmanship, and provides comradery in a fun environment. Under Novak’s leadership, the program is well-organized, financially sound, and growing, according to Keady.

“He has built and maintained a strong development pipeline that introduces young athletes to the game through Tee Ball, builds confidence and supports them as a number go on to become high-achieving high school players competing at the state championship level.”  

Beyond his responsibilities as president, Novak is literally “hands on” in his unflagging support and promotion of the league: mowing the grass, raking the field, painting lines, checking drainage, putting up league sponsorship signs, and coordinating fundraisers.

“What sets Steve apart is his dedication to the players who are just learning the game or are developing skills,” according to Clough School of Theology and Ministry Associate Professor Daniel Daly, who with his wife, Kate Daly, director of BC's Volunteer & Service Learning Center, also nominated him for the award. “He gives as much time and attention to the experience of those players as he does the ‘A’-level players.”

“I remain deeply grateful and humbled to play a small part in a community that gives so much to its young people, and I am thankful for the chance to serve alongside so many dedicated volunteers, coaches, and families,” Novak said.

Back To Top