It’s All in the Name: Hero the Dog Brings Safety and Smiles to Babson

Babson College’s newest public safety recruit is smart, friendly, and always hungry for the next assignment—especially if there’s food involved. His name is Hero, and he’s a yellow Labrador retriever trained in explosives detection and community engagement.

Hero officially joined Babson’s Public Safety Department this spring after completing a four-month training program with the Massachusetts State Police. Unlike the College’s other canine companions, Hero serves a dual purpose: He’s both a lovable ambassador and a serious safety asset, said Officer Kevin Carrigan, who is Hero’s primary handler.

“He’s not just here to be petted, though he loves that,” Carrigan said. “He’s also trained to detect explosives and keep our campus safe during major events.”

A Dog with a Dual Role

Hero joins Babson’s other public resource dogs, Roger, a golden retriever named in honor of College founder Roger Babson, and a black Goldador named Gracie. While all three are trained to support the social and emotional well-being of everyone on campus, Hero brings a new dimension. He’s the College’s first dog specifically trained to detect explosive materials—a role that places him at the intersection of security and community connection.

“He really reflects who we are as a department,” Carrigan said. “We’re here to build relationships, but we’re also trained and prepared to handle serious situations.”

Hero’s journey to Babson started through the nonprofit Puppies Behind Bars, which pairs incarcerated individuals with puppies to train them in foundational skills. From there, the Massachusetts State Police selected Hero for explosives-detection training. Over four months, Hero was imprinted with more than a dozen explosive odors. His reward for success? Kibble.

“He’s food-motivated,” Carrigan said with a laugh. “When he smells a target scent, he gets a treat. It’s all positive reinforcement.”

Carrigan and Hero trained together starting in February and graduated May 22. “It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my career,” Carrigan said. “Not just for the skills we gained, but for the bond we developed.”

A Resource for Campus—and the Commonwealth

Hero’s primary responsibilities include sweeping large campus events such as Commencement and the B.E.T.A. (Babson Entrepreneurial Thought & Action®) Challenge. But, he’s also available to assist the state police with regional events such as the Boston Marathon or visiting dignitaries.

“This kind of partnership strengthens both our department and our community relationships,” Carrigan said.

Hero is equally comfortable working a large event or flopping on his back for belly rubs in the Babson Commons. He already has made fast friends with Roger and Gracie, and his addition gives the campus community a new kind of interaction.

“Some students want a calm dog, like Roger. Others want an energetic, goofy pup—that’s Hero,” Carrigan said. “Now, there’s something for everyone.”

Carrigan sees Hero’s presence as part of Babson’s broader approach to public safety—one rooted in responsiveness, community, and innovation. “In challenging times, we have to be creative,” he said. “Hero is a creative solution—he’s bridging safety and connection.”

For now, Hero is busy learning the rhythms of campus life and enjoying his well-earned treats. Whether sniffing to secure public safety or soaking up love from students, he already is living up to his name.

“He’s our Hero,” Carrigan said. “In every sense of the word.”

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Tagged Student Life, Campus

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