Gov. Kelly Ayotte delivers her keynote address to the graduates of Nashua Community College on May 16. Courtesy photo/Nashua Community College

NASHUA – For the first time in nearly three decades, Nashua Community College held its Commencement ceremony without President Lucille Jordan, who passed away in December 2024.

During her keynote address, Gov. Kelly Ayotte spoke about the late president’s lasting impact on NCC.

“She was an extraordinary woman and leader,” Ayotte said to the 173 graduates in attendance during the May 16 ceremony. “She was someone who made a difference.”

The governor told the graduates that it may take time for them to find their place in society.

“Your plan may not end up being a straight path, there are always surprises,” said Ayotte. “The things that we think are detours, may bring us to our true calling. I know days like this don’t just happen, you’ve worked hard, you’ve sacrificed and you can take great pride in receiving a degree from a great community college.”

In addition, Ayotte encouraged them to stay in New Hampshire.

“I left the state to go to school, but the best decision I made was to come back here,” she said. “Make New Hampshire your home, continue to grow your roots here. You are the future of our state.”

Interim President Alfred Williams also highlighted Jordan’s legacy.

“President Jordan led this college for over 27 years and her impact on this institution — and on each of you — is immeasurable,” he said.

Williams also passed along something that Jordan once shared with him — be passionate, remain steadfast and celebrate success.

“By walking across this stage, you have proven your abilities, give yourself credit,” he said. “College degrees are not just handed out; they are obtained with hard work and diligence. Lucille would be incredibly proud of you — and so am I. Your families, your friends and your community are proud of you too.”

In Jordan’s memory, a new award, the Lucille Jordan Community Partner Award, was presented to Mary Peters, director of External Relations, at MY TURN, Inc.

Lucy Jenkins, assistant to the president, presented the award to Peters.

“Mary has built a strong and meaningful partnership with NCC, helping students, many facing significant life challenges, access higher education and regain a sense of purpose and stability,” said Jenkins. “Her impact is felt not only in the Greater Nashua Community but throughout New Hampshire.”

Student speaker Rebecca Sanchez, the mother of two middle school boys, said she reached a point where she could no longer work three jobs.

“Nashua Community College is exactly the supportive community I needed,” she said. “I knew I was in the right place the moment I walked in. The admissions team, advisors and professors who support me academically may have started out as faculty and staff, but have become my friends and mentors.”

Sanchez received her Associate’s degree in general studies and certificate in small business management. She was also vice president and treasurer of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.

“Today is proof that we are all capable of accomplishing the goals that lay ahead of us,” she said. “My heart is invested in this beautiful community. I plan to use my education to be a positive influence by advocating and empowering those around me and I hope you will too.”

This year’s President’s Award for Academic Excellence went to Cora Shaklee, who graduated with an Associate’s degree in mathematics and a 4.0 grade point average.

The Chancellor’s Award for Teaching Excellence went to Professor Elizabeth Berry, chairwomen of the Multicultural Engagement Department.