HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) - Longmeadow native and renowned actress Bridget Moynahan has been granted the 2025 John F. Kennedy National Award by the St. Patrick's Committee of Holyoke. Moynahan was chosen as this year's award recipient due to her dedication to her career, as well as her advocacy for underprivileged communities, and her pride in her Irish heritage. The JFK National Award has been presented annually to an American of Irish descent who upheld strong moral community and family values, just as Kennedy did. Amy Carnevale reelected as chair of Massachusetts Republican Party Some of Moynahan's most popular on-screen acting roles include Erin Reagan in "Blue Bloods" and Natasha in "Sex and the City" and its reboot "And Just Like That... ." She also starred in the science-fiction movie "I, Robot" alongside Will Smith. Moynahan is a spokesperson for The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, which helps bring community to children with chronic illnesses. She additionally works as an ambassador for an organization called Global Citizens, which is working to end worldwide poverty and uplift intersectional equity. “Growing up in an Irish family has shaped my values of resilience, family, and community—qualities I see celebrated so beautifully in the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade,” Moynahan said. “To be honored with the JFK Award is deeply humbling, as it represents not only a connection to my heritage but also a legacy of pride. I am grateful to the committee for this incredible recognition and proud to stand with those who celebrate Irish culture and history so vibrantly.” The Saint Patrick's Day Parade weekend will include several celebrations that acknowledge Moynahan, including a featured position in the parade and a formal honoring at the JFK Awards Dinner. Local News Headlines Bridget Moynahan named 2025 JFK Award recipient by St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke Springfield Museums offer sensory-friendly exhibits How to keep your pets protected in the winter Plane makes emergency landing at Orange Airport WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.