New scholarship honors Jane Munro Barrett

The Scholarship Fund of Acton and Carlisle would like to thank the Acton Chamber of Commerce, Barrett Sotheby’s International Reality, and the Barrett family for establishing The Jane Munro Barrett Memorial Scholarship Fund. This named fund honors the life and legacy of Jane Munro Barrett (1935–2025), whose professional excellence, community leadership, and personal generosity left an indelible mark on Acton.

A 1976 graduate of Wellesley College, Jane made Acton her home, along with her husband Bill and their four children. Jane began her real estate career in 1977, and in 1978 she opened her own office. Under her leadership, J. M. Barrett & Co. flourished, becoming known for its unwavering commitment to quality.

Throughout her career, Jane supported her staff, agents, buyers, and sellers with remarkable care and thoughtfulness. Many recall her handwritten notes sent at milestones — gestures that reflected her investment in others. The reputation of J.M. Barrett & Co. mirrored Jane’s own: principled, community-minded, and steadfast.

Jane was honored as the Acton Chamber of Commerce Businessperson of the Year in 1995. She served as its president from 1987-88 and was the first female president of the Rotary Club of Acton, breaking ground while strengthening the organizations she led.

In 2006, new ownership under Laurie Cadigan continued Jane’s philosophy of the highest professional standards. The firm later became Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty.

This scholarship, awarded to Acton-Carlisle High School graduates continuing their education, will serve as a lasting tribute to Jane Munro Barrett. The Scholarship Fund of Acton and Carlisle is honored to steward this memorial in celebration of a life so meaningfully lived.

Since 1966, The Scholarship Fund has supported more than 1,500 students from the Acton and Carlisle communities. For more information, please visit thescholarshipfundofcc.org.

Hanna Bruno

Main Street 

Trustee, Scholarship Fund of Acton and Carlisle