“Happy Days Are Here Again” for MCC’s 26th Annual Celebrity Forum

Middlesex Community College will host the annual Celebrity Forum on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. Three actors from the legendary sitcom “Happy Days” will join Middlesex President Phil Sisson on the stage of the Lowell Memorial Auditorium to raise funds for students and celebrate an evening of conversation and entertainment.

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“Supporting students isn’t charity – it’s an investment in every dream they’re brave enough to chase,” said Anson Williams, “Happy Days” star. “The Foundation’s work opens doors, lifts burdens, and gives young people the chance to rise above unexpected challenges. Henry, Don, and I are truly honored to be part of this wonderful event and to stand with a community that believes so deeply in its students’ future.”

Hosted by the Middlesex Community College Foundation, the event will be the 26th Celebrity Forum to bring educational and cultural enrichment to Greater Lowell area residents. This year’s event will offer an evening of nostalgia, friendship and humor, featuring actors Williams, Henry Winkler and Don Most.

“I am excited to interview Henry, Anson and Don for this year’s Celebrity Forum,” President Sisson said. “A landmark event in the city of Lowell each year, the evening is an opportunity for Middlesex to shine and do what we do best – advocate for our students and their success. Thank you to the MCC Foundation, our donors, sponsors and community partners, and to our celebrity guests for supporting our annual spring fundraiser. With your assistance, Middlesex will continue providing opportunities, resources and experiences to help students reach their goals and transform their lives.”

A sponsor reception will start off the evening at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner and an interview with the cast. TJX Companies, Inc. has been a proud Presenting Sponsor of MCC’s spring fundraisers since 1999.

“At TJX, expanding access to education is a meaningful way we invest in the future,” said Mary Ellen Mattheos, TJX Senior Vice President of Human Resources. “We’re proud to continue our longstanding support of the Middlesex Community College Foundation’s Celebrity Forum and are delighted to help welcome Henry, Anson and Don from ‘Happy Day’s to Lowell for an event the community will truly enjoy.”

Often regarded as the TV show that pioneered the American sitcom, “Happy Days” premiered in 1974 and ran for 11 seasons. Each week, millions of Americans tuned in to watch Fonzie say his catchphrase “Ayyyy,” Postie’s goofy innocence, and Ralph’s comedic one-liners.

Over 50 years ago, America welcomed the Cunningham family into their homes for a dose of heartfelt storylines and humor that made Tuesday night TV a national tradition. Featuring wholesome themes centered around teenage life and friendship, the show offered a post-World War II vibe, lovable cast and middle America values. Throwbacks such as jukeboxes, malted milkshakes and simple, solvable problems made “Happy Days” the number one show of 1976.

“The MCC Foundation is proud to host an event that brings extraordinary talents to Lowell for a wonderful and vital cause in support of MCC students,” said Judy Burke, MCC’s Vice President of Institutional Advancement & Workforce Development. “These events are made possible by the generosity of incredible donors, community partners and employers who understand and share in the college’s mission of guiding students to success. Thank you to the Foundation, our partners, and to Henry Winkler, Anson Williams and Don Most for joining us. We are very much looking forward to the event!”

Learn more about MCC’s 2026 Celebrity Forum sponsorship opportunities or email Sherri McCormack, MCC’s Dean of Advancement at McCormackS@middlesex.edu, or call 978-656-3034. To purchase individual tickets, contact the Lowell Memorial Auditorium Box Office at 800-657-8774.