Gov. Kelly Ayotte will serve as the keynote speaker at this year’s graduation at Nashua Community College on May 16. Courtesy photo

NASHUA – Gov. Kelly Ayotte will serve as the keynote speaker for Nashua Community College’s commencement ceremony on May 16.

“As a long-time supporter of the college and member of the community we serve, Gov. Ayotte understands the role Nashua Community College plays and is uniquely suited to address the graduates of the class of 2025,” said NCC interim President Alfred Williams. “We are honored to have her join us in recognizing our 2025 graduates as they celebrate the day and use the skills and knowledge from their NCC experience to begin writing their next chapter of their professional journey.”

A Nashua resident, Ayotte is a familiar face at the college. She served as commencement speaker in 2012 during her tenure as New Hampshire’s U.S. senator and again for the Microelectronics Boot Camp’s 30th graduation in 2023 as chairwoman of the Board of Directors for BAE Systems, Inc.

“I am thrilled to participate in NCC’s commencement and recognize these students, faculty and staff for their achievements and their efforts to build the workforce of tomorrow in our state,” said Ayotte. “The individuals receiving these degrees and certificates conferred this May across all our community colleges will have an immediate impact on our workforce, the strength of our communities, and the quality of life in our great state. Whether they are continuing their education via the transfer pathway at the University System or entering the workforce right away, the foundation provided by our community colleges has given them the tools to thrive. I encourage anyone looking for their next step in life to look at the opportunities available at our state’s community colleges.”

An estimated 280 students are expected to be awarded degrees and certificates. They have developed a very diverse set of skills and knowledge through more than 30 programs across disciplines from electronic engineering technology and precision manufacturing to nursing and early childhood education.

Commencement is scheduled for May 16 at 4 p.m. outdoors on the east side of the NCC campus near the gymnasium. The rain date is set for May 17 at 2 p.m. A complete list of event details is available online at NashuaCC.edu/graduation.