2008 Woodie Awards
Centenarian set to speak at Commencement
Kerry King
Issue date: 4/16/04 Section: News Stories
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In recent press releases, President of the College Dr. Thomas Plough spoke highly of Aucoin. "Anyone who has had the pleasure of spending time with Dr. Aucoin would readily understand why he is a rather special and appropriate role model to honor during the Assumption College Centennial," he said.
Aucoin graduated from the former Assumption Prep School in 1921 and earned a Bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts from Assumption College in 1925. Following his undergraduate study, he applied to Laval University Medical School in Quebec, where he received his Ph.D in 1933.
According to Aucoin, Laval University had recognized and held Assumption in high regard. "If someone graduated from AC, they would be admitted to Laval," he said. "There was never any question. I sent in my request and I was immediately accepted. I think that the reputation of [Assumption] was remarkable."
Having been retired from his work as a general practitioner and surgeon since 1979, Aucoin admits he would still choose the field of medicine if he had the chance to relive his earlier days. "Medicine [might again have been] chosen as a future aspiration but not with the same enthusiasm," he said, "as it's freedom, at present, is somewhat impaired by the government and insurance companies."
Although he graduated from the College almost 75 years ago, Aucoin is quick to recount his days as a student, both at the Prep School and Undergraduate level.
In those days, French was spoken on campus. "Most of the time we spoke French while playing handball or tennis, but as the years went by English was used more frequently," said Aucoin.
Student life was very different during Assumption's early days. Students resided in dormitories with all of their personal possessions stored in a trunk at the base of their beds. Behavior was regulated by strict rules and supervision.
Aucoin remembered restrictions on water usage. "We were very fortunate; we took one shower a week," he said. "When there was too much noise in those lockers, the cold water was turned on and when we quieted down, the hot water was turned on again."
When allowed a chance to leave campus, Aucoin and his peers would venture into Worcester. "Sometimes we'd go to the theatre. They had movies, plus some [shows] on the stage," he said. "It was always fun to go and spend a couple of hours, if I had the money at the time. [The cost was] minimal. At that time it was around 50 cents."
As a student at AC, Aucoin took advantage of the opportunity to become a student athlete with newly formed athletics teams. "Assumption developed a baseball and basketball team which played academic teams most of the time," he said. "In the early twenties, the teams were encouraged by a cheering section of students developed by Louis Rocheleau '24."
Although Aucoin lettered in both sports, baseball was his favorite. He played third base.
Much of Aucoin's positive experience at Assumption is credited to his admiration for the Assumptionist priests. "Their lives were to develop the students to show their devotion so that the pupils would gain by their example and attitude," he said. "I owe so much to the fathers for giving me principles by which I have tried to live my life."
Over the years, Aucoin has remained an active member of the College community. "In 1956, he founded the Scholarship Association of Rumford and Mexico, ME, a group that provides financial assistance to Assumption students who hail from that area," said the press release regarding Aucoin's selection as this year's Commencement speaker.
His list of awards and accolades include an honorary degree from the College in 1964, induction to the Assumption Athletic Hall of Fame in 1970, reception of the Jack L. Bresciani '72 Outstanding Alumnus/Alumna Award in 1975, and a President's Medal from the College in 1995. He has been a lifelong member of the College's President's Council, as well.
In preparation for his approaching visit to the College as the Centennial Commencement speaker, Aucoin deemed service and companionship as two of the most important goals for graduating seniors. To him, these qualities shape what is most important in life.
"To me, it's sharing with the people [with whom] you are involved," he said. Give of yourself as much as you can to show a good example and share particular problems you may have. To try to counsel, if it's possible, the person with whom [you are] involved."
For seniors, the advice Aucoin has accumulated over his century on this earth revolves around sharing. "In life, sharing is very important to me," he said. "Share advice or assistance or counseling. This would be the height of success."
Aucoin's life experience and genuine spirit, coupled with his sense of humor and dedication to the College attracted administrators to him when it came time to select a commencement speaker.
"This wonderful centenarian came from a family of modest means and strong faith and values, profited from the Assumption College educational experience, went on to a wonderful medical vocation, and practices a lifestyle characterized by the civility and colleagueship so valued here at Assumption College," said Plough. "He is a treasure to share with members of the Class of 2004."