JULY1-12.qxp_NCN new template 7/5/22 4:17 PM Page 1
FREE Guide INSIDE!
Perseverance pays off for ACC graduate ELLINGTON — Local resident Melisa Luce’s story is one of inspiration, strength, and perseverance. An educational journey that began at Asnuntuck in 2009 has culminated in her recent graduation from the college. Luce’s first three years were focused on a degree in criminal justice. “In 2012, I was promoted to retail project manager. ... My territory was the whole United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. I was on a plane more than I wasn’t most weeks,” Luce said. After taking a break from her studies Luce switched major to general studies in 2015. Adapting to change was nothing new to Luce. “Being a high school dropout, due to becoming pregnant at the age of 15, I’ve had a lot of people tell me that I had ruined my life, and also thought my children would never have a chance in
life to become successful. I’m proud to have proved them all wrong,” Luce said. In 2005, Luce graduated from Connecticut Training Center as a patient care associate. That same drive continued her push to graduate from Asnuntuck. Luce has been able to share her experience at Asnuntuck with her daughter, Jessika Lin Gossett. They were both honored at the 2018 induction ceremony, as Phi Theta Kappa members. “That was an evening that I will never forget,” Luce said. She reflected on triumphs and tragedies she has experienced, noting with pride the success of her children, Ron, Jessika, and Tiffany. Luce has also experienced somber times, as her oldest son, Tommy, died in 2013 at age 28. Her husband Thomas has been “my greatest cheerleader.” Through it all Luce kept working
For more graduation coverage • EAST WINDSOR, pages 5, 7 • ELLINGTON, pages 10-11, 25 • ENFIELD, page 29
• SOMERS, pages 33-35 • STAFFORD, pages 41, 43 • SUFFIELD, page 45
LOVED BY
WINTER
toward her educational goal, and it paid off as she joined fellow graduates May 26 at Dunkin Donuts Park for commencement. “My plans for the future are to continue to be the best example to my children and grandchildren,” she said. “I want them to stay tenacious and continue to reach for the stars. Don’t let anything or anybody tell them what their future will or should be like.”
Ellington resident Melisa Luce began her education at Asnuntuck Community College in 2009.
Why Choose Mitsubishi Ductless?
YOU’LL LOVE THE BENEFITS! Many homeowners are choosing to install ductless heating and cooling, and Mitsubishi ductless o昀ers many great bene昀ts! There is no ductwork required, so installation is quick and easy. You’ll get room-by-room temperature control – that means direct cool and warm air where you want it! Plus, it helps 昀lter out germs and allergens, and helps you save money on energy bills. Call today to learn more about Mitsubishi ductless and if it’s right for your home!
Stafford Mechanical Services, Inc. Heating & Cooling Contractors
Call (860) 684-9485
Sta昀ordHeatingandCooling.com
I N V E S T M E N T & MEDICARE OPTIONS Ask about our new Long Term Care Plans
LOVED BY
Let us simplify your choices.
SUMMER P1-278482 SM1-0006512 HOD-0000103 W5-55
Local Postal Customer
Lic. #S1-385604
Call our o ce to schedule an individual appointment.
See our upcoming Workshops on page 3
860.749.0482 48 South Road, Unit 2, P.O. Box 398 Somers, CT 06071
www.statelineseniorservices.com
PRST-STD U.S. Postage Paid Springfield, MA Permit No.142