New England College Magazine is published two times a year by New England College, 98 Bridge Street, Henniker, NH 03242. It is sent to alumni, donors, current students, prospective students, and friends of the College. The magazine is part of College Advancement, led by Vice President William Deptula.
Send your stories, updates, address changes, or cancellation requests to: New England College Alumni Relations 98 Bridge Street, Henniker, NH 03242 alumni@nec.edu
Transforming Futures
A $10 million gift will empower New England College students in STEM programs.
Endowment Impact
A Renewed Focus on Mental Health
A new grant funds a scholarship for NEC's cooperative BA in Community Mental Health.
Teaching Excellence
Dr. Reza Jalili serves as NEC's first endowed faculty chair.
Game Changer for NEC
Phase two of the state-of-the-art Athletics Center kicks off.
Athletics
Academic
Greetings from Bridge Street
Dr. Wayne F. Lesperance, Jr. President
Every semester, New England College welcomes new students into our community—students who are the first in their families to attend college, students who don’t know yet what they want their futures to look like, students who stand on the cusp of some of the best times of their lives.
All of NEC’s students, no matter their starting point, have one thing in common: Their NEC experiences are shaped and often made possible by the generosity of those who make financial gifts to the College.
These gifts fund scholarships, degree programs, student experiences, and campus improvements. In short, these gifts play a large part in what makes an NEC education so special.
Last fall, I had the pleasure of traveling around the country visiting some of NEC’s generous donors and building relationships with a number of our alumni. I learned a lot about their connections to NEC, their experiences as students here, and why supporting the College is a priority for them. We are fortunate to be the recipient of philanthropic gifts made by friends and alumni who want as many students as possible to be able to attend NEC and get the most out of their time here.
This issue of the New England College Magazine focuses on philanthropy and how our community benefits from the generosity of others, a generosity that I hope we never take for granted. NEC cannot say “thank you” often enough or loudly enough to those who believe in this institution and trust us to use their gifts responsibly to enhance the student experience.
As you read through this issue, you will see how these gifts are used around campus. You will read about a $10 million commitment dedicated to STEM programs; a $550,000 gift for our cooperative Community Mental Health bachelor’s degree; our new Athletics Center, our latest capital improvement; and NEC’s first endowed faculty chair position held by Dr. Ali Reza Jalili, as well as other news from campus.
Philanthropy ensures that NEC remains a vibrant, innovative institution where students can thrive both academically and personally. The future of NEC and our students is bright, indeed.
Austin '60 and Betty Ann Kovacses' financial commitment will advance STEM degree programs at New England College.
Nursing students perform research in the lab of Dr. Lori Koziol,
Professor of Biology and Health Science.
New England College students will benefit from an extraordinary commitment by alumnus Austin Kovacs, class of 1960, and his wife, Betty Ann, whose gift will transform the College’s science, technology, and mathematics (STEM) programs. This landmark $10 million gift—the largest in NEC’s history—will give students expanded access to stateof-the-art facilities, cutting-edge degree programs, and opportunities in fast-growing fields like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, bioscience, information technology, and game theory.
The Kovacses' investment comes from their belief that a strong foundation in STEM disciplines unlocks lucrative career opportunities for graduates. By enhancing and developing NEC’s STEM programs, their gift will equip students with the skills and experiences necessary to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving job market. Previously, in 2022, the Kovacses gifted $1 million to kickstart the first phase of the NEC Science Building renovation. This additional $10 million gift reinforces their commitment to STEM initiatives at the College.
“This transformative gift directly impacts our students, both now and for generations to come. With this support, NEC can enrich the academic and professional experiences of our students, preparing them for the high-demand STEM careers of tomorrow. The confidence and trust that Austin and Betty Ann have placed in NEC are inspiring, and we will ensure their legacy lives on through our shared commitment to STEM initiatives at the College. We are profoundly grateful for their commitment to our students’ success.”
Dr. Wayne F. Lesperance, Jr. President of New England College
For NEC students, like those in the Computer Information Systems program, this investment creates opportunities to dive deeper into specialized areas and shape their own learning experiences. The Kovacses' grandson, an NEC graduate, exemplified this by designing a customized program in computer systems when such a degree did not yet exist.
Renovated Science Building lecture hall funded by the Kovacses' initial gift of $1 million.
Austin Kovacs, a civil engineering graduate of NEC, had a distinguished career as a senior research civil engineer at the U.S. Army Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory in Hanover, N.H., where he worked from 1962 to 1995. He became nationally and internationally recognized for his expertise, authoring or co-authoring over 220 technical papers, including 50 journal articles and 54 conference papers. Additionally, he holds two patents on specialized auguring, coring, drilling, and testing devices that he developed. Kovacs is one of the few individuals to have traveled to both the North and South Poles and was honored by having an Antarctic glacier named after him.
Betty Ann served as the chief operating officer of Kovacs Enterprises, Inc., a supplier of specialized ice drilling and ice coring equipment founded by the couple in 1995. From the Arctic to the Antarctic, the Kovacses' world-renowned equipment has been used on every continent across the globe. Kovacs Enterprises served clientele from a variety of private and government cold regions research communities. Betty Ann used her expertise in logistics to market, sell, and ship this specialized equipment until the Kovacses sold the business in 2013.
The Kovacs family’s remarkable contribution ensures that NEC students can pursue similar paths of innovation and discovery. With this gift, NEC students will access new technologies and facilities and gain the flexibility to shape academic programs that align with the ever-changing demands of the STEM landscape. This investment will pave the way for students to enter industries at the forefront of innovation, positioning them for impactful and rewarding careers. ■
$458,000 total endowed fund SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS IN FISCAL YEAR 2024
NEC'S FIRST ENDOWMENT FUND 1976 A SCHOLARSHIP WAS ESTABLISHED
CURRENT MINIMUM AMOUNT REQUIRED to establish an endowed fund at nec $50,000
Endowed gifts play a pivotal role at New England College, funding scholarships and athletics opportunities as well as faculty positions and faculty development.
NEC'S TOTAL ENDOWMENT as of december 31, 2024 $31,670,446
endowed funds to SUPPORT FACULTY DEVELOPMENT 10
total number of ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS 44 AT NEC number of ENDOWED FACULTY CHAIRS AT NEC 1
ESTABLISHED IN 2022 THROUGH A GIFT FROM KENNETH KRUEGER '66
NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE RECEIVES A
$550,000 Community from Mental CommunityHealth
COMBINED GRANT FROM
nh healthy families
TM
NEC has received a combined $550,000 grant from NH Healthy Families ($50,000) and Centene Foundation ($500,000), the philanthropic arm of Centene Corporation. This grant will fund a scholarship endowment for the College’s new cooperative Bachelor of Arts in Community Mental Health, a degree program that trains professionals to meet the growing mental health crisis throughout New Hampshire and New England. Recipients of the scholarship will be known as Centene Scholars.
“This generous grant from NH Healthy Families and Centene Foundation enables NEC to extend valuable scholarships to students who want to
Brad Poznanski NEC VP of Enrollment Management
Sky Croswell NEC VP of Marketing and Communications
Chris Sununu Former New Hampshire Governor
Dr. Samuel DiCapua Former Chief Medical Director for NH Healthy Families
Rebecca Feely NEC Associate Director of Admission
The State of New Hampshire has taken steps to increase mental health access and services, such as an increase in Medicaid provider rates and $134 million appropriated to develop, recruit, and retain mental health professionals.
The Community Mental Health program combines classroom learning and two paid immersive experiences in which students “earn while they learn” by working with clients in the community to provide direct client care, help with daily activities in the community, and perhaps even lead group counseling sessions.
“NH Healthy Families and Centene know that by growing New Hampshire’s pipeline of available and credentialed mental health care workforce, we will enhance access to critical services for traditionally underserved populations and all Granite Staters,” explained Clyde White, Plan President and CEO of NH Healthy Families at the time the grant was announced. “We are proud to support New England College’s new degree program in Community Mental Health that will address this pressing public health need.”
“On behalf of all Granite Staters, we thank Centene for their commitment to strengthening New Hampshire’s mental health care system through grants to New England College that will help build the next generation of mental health professionals and build a brighter future,” said Chris Sununu, former governor of New Hampshire. ■
LEARN MORE ABOUT NEC's cooperative Community Mental Health program.
TEACHING EXCELLENCE
In the spring of 2022, a generous $2 million gift from alumnus Kenneth Krueger '66 and his late wife, Andrea, established New England College’s first endowed faculty chair position, the K. H. William and Andrea Krueger Endowed Faculty Chair in Business Administration with a focus on Accounting. NEC appointed accounting professor Dr. Reza Jalili to fill this prestigious role.
Dr. Jalili joined NEC in 2006 as a seasoned professional who brought a diverse career history with him. His journey began with roles as a staff auditor at Price Waterhouse and an internal auditor for TOTAL Energie, a French multinational oil and energy company, and he eventually moved up to Chief Financial Officer. Despite his corporate success, his passion for teaching led him to academia and, thus, to NEC.
Reza
This endowed appointment, in Dr. Jalili’s view, provides him with the opportunity to elevate NEC’s accounting programs. “This position was made possible by a generous donation, and it comes with the responsibility of revitalizing NEC’s Master of Accounting program,” he noted. His vision includes developing a certified public accountant (CPA) track within the master’s program, which will enhance the curriculum to better prepare students for the CPA exam and their careers.
The impact of this endowed chair extends beyond curriculum development; it profoundly influences the student experience. Dr. Jalili emphasizes the importance of challenging students to reach their full potential.
“I always tell my students that if they like me during the course, I’m not doing my job,” he said. His approach ensures that graduates are not only academically proficient but also equipped with the resilience and critical thinking skills necessary for the professional world.
NEC’s First Endowed Faculty Chair
$2 MILLION GIFT
Alumnus Kenneth Krueger ('66) and Andrea Krueger donor year title
Endowed Faculty Chair in Business Administration with a focus on Accounting 2022
NEC’s accounting programs, under Dr. Jalili's leadership, prepare students for a variety of careers, including auditing, risk management, corporate accounting, management consulting, and financial services. The curriculum aligns with the competencies identified by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), ensuring that students gain both technical knowledge and leadership capabilities.
The establishment of the endowed chair also signifies NEC’s dedication to providing students with access to distinguished faculty, thereby enriching their academic journeys. Dr. Jalili's extensive experience and innovative vision serve as invaluable resources for students, offering mentorship and insights that bridge theoretical learning with practical application.
Beyond the classroom, the benefits of this position resonate through the NEC community. The addition of an endowed faculty chair enhances NEC’s reputation, which
helps attract prospective students and faculty who are eager to engage in a dynamic and supportive learning environment. Additionally, it fosters a culture of excellence that permeates all aspects of the institution, inspiring continuous improvement and a commitment to high standards.
The K. H. William and Andrea Krueger Endowed Faculty Chair in Business Administration with a focus on Accounting serves as more than a title; it is a catalyst for transformation at New England College. Through this role, Dr. Reza Jalili is poised to elevate the accounting programs, enrich the student experience, and uphold the College’s mission of academic excellence and leadership in the field of accounting. ■
LEARN MORE ABOUT NEC's accounting programs and Dr. Reza Jalili.
Phase 2 Kick off
State-of-the-Art Athletics Center
Excitement is building at New England College as construction plans emerge for the second phase of a cutting-edge Athletics Center that will transform campus life and raise the bar for NCAA Division III athletics. This visionary project underscores NEC’s commitment to providing a dynamic, innovative environment for its students—46% of whom participate in varsity sports, a number that climbs to 50% when including club athletes.
The next phase of the Athletics Center reimagines Bridges Gymnasium with a full-scale renovation and stunning addition.
"This is more than a construction project—it’s a bold step forward. The Athletics Center exemplifies NEC’s innovative spirit and commitment to student success, whether on the field, in the classroom, or beyond. This facility will energize our campus and elevate the experience of every NEC student."
Dr.
Wayne F. Lesperance, Jr.
President of New England College
floorplan of the upper level of the reimagined bridges gymnasium
50%
of NEC students participate in varsity sports OR CLUB SPORTS
The next phase of the Athletics Center reimagines Bridges Gymnasium with a full-scale renovation and stunning addition. This new space will include modern offices for Athletics Department coaches; an expanded and reimagined Strength Lab; a fitness center open to the entire NEC community; and top-tier facilities such as locker rooms, strength training areas, and sports medicine rooms. The design will seamlessly integrate with NEC’s charming academic architecture, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Phase one of the project, completed last summer, featured a resurfaced Turf Field and state-of-the-art equipment upgrades for the Strength Lab. These upgrades set the stage for the ambitious developments now underway.
For Lex Scourby, Class of 1975 and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, this moment represents the culmination of decades of NEC’s growth and determination. “As an alumnus and longtime board member, I’ve seen NEC embrace change and innovation to benefit its students. The Athletics Center is a monumental leap forward, and I’m thrilled to see its impact on campus life and student achievement.”
Designed by Stone River Architects and built by Harvey Construction, both based in Bedford, N.H., the Athletics Center project promises to be a landmark development for NEC. This facility will stand as a testament to the College’s dedication to shaping a vibrant, engaged and successful community for years to come. ■
NEWS ATHLETIC
Zach Emerson
DIRECTOR
Cross Country and Track & Field
Track & Field
NEC previously fielded a Track & Field program from 2010–2016, and competition will resume in the 2026–2027 academic year.
NEC hired Zach Emerson to serve as Director of the Cross Country and Track & Field programs. Emerson previously coached the NEC Cross Country program from 2010–2011. The Pilgrims earned multiple accolades, culminating with a 2011 North Atlantic Conference Championship for the men’s team.
Before returning to NEC, Emerson led an incredibly successful run at Franklin Pierce University, where he solidified the program’s reputation as one of the best in the region. Under his leadership, the Ravens secured an NCAA Division II National Championship, 19 All-American honors, and 62 NCAA Championship participants. The Ravens also earned 103 NCAA Track & Field National Qualifying Marks and crowned 156 Northeast 10 Conference Champions.
Emerson also serves as president of the Hopkinton Runners Society, a non-profit that stewards the Hopkinton Fairgrounds Cross Country Course in Hopkinton, N.H. Emerson personally built the course in 2014, and it is the scheduled site for the NCAA Division I, II, and III Regional championships this fall.
The Pilgrims will continue to sponsor their crosscountry program and plan to offer some competitive opportunities for Track & Field during the 2025–2026 year.
Men's Golf
NEC hosted the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) at the Concord Country Club in Concord, N.H., in October. The Pilgrims took first place with scores of 318 on Monday and 302 on Tuesday, winning by 26 strokes, marking their second straight GNAC championship.
Athletes received their championship rings during a ceremony held in Bridges Gymnasium on February 4.
Men’s Golf will compete next at the NCAA Championships in Penfield, N.Y., in May.
Esports
NEC esports won its second straight title in the game Valorant during December’s National Esports Collegiate Conferences Championship. NEC prevailed three games to two in a best-of-five victory over the University of Alabama in Huntsville. NEC’s Valorant team also won the spring 2024 title.
STUDENT–ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
Volleyball Baseball Aurora GutierrezMacias '26 i texas
As a sophomore, setter Aurora Gutierrez-Macias earned a spot on the 2023 College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic AllDistrict Women's Volleyball Team in recognition of her achievements in the classroom and on the court. She was also named to the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Academic All-Conference team last June for maintaining at least a 3.25 grade point average. Her 2024 season highs include four kills, 25 assists, eight points, five aces, 16 digs, and one block.
Brady Philibotte
new hampshire
Infielder Brady Philibotte enjoyed a breakout 2024 season for the Pilgrims, hitting .400 with 48 hits and a team-leading 23 RBIs to go along with 14 doubles. In April, Philibotte was voted to the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) All-Conference second team as a designated hitter, after reaching the 100 career-hit plateau, hitting for the cycle on April 7 at Albertus Magnus College. In June, he was named to the GNAC Academic All-Conference team for maintaining at least a 3.25 grade point average. Also in June, he was named to the College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District Team.
In February, NEC announced that its accreditation by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE or the Commission) has been continued, with the next comprehensive evaluation scheduled for 2034. This outstanding result underscores NEC’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence.
NECHE serves as a reliable authority and independent voice on the quality of higher education provided by its more than 200 member institutions, all of which are degree-granting higher education institutions. NECHE’s thorough accreditation standards are intended to ensure that an institution provides quality academic programs and services that lead to student success. The Commission consists of faculty and administrators from affiliated institutions as well as public members who have no institutional affiliation.
achieves
FULL ACCREDITATION renewal
accreditation by
NEC submitted its institutional self-study for comprehensive evaluation by NECHE in January 2024.
The self-study described and appraised the College in 2023 and projected what New England College plans to accomplish in the future, responding to NECHE’s nine accreditation standards. NEC’s self-study took 18 months of painstaking work and thoughtful assessment, and it included the voices of students and alumni, faculty and staff, administration, trustees, and friends of the College. NECHE informed the College of its accreditation continuation in December 2024, concluding that the institution is “well-positioned to continue to challenge individuals to transform themselves and their world well into the future.”
“This success is a collective achievement, reflecting the hard work and dedication of our faculty, staff, and community,” stated Dr. Wayne F. Lesperance, Jr., President of New England College. “The Commission’s decision to extend our accreditation is an unprecedented achievement for our institution, and I could not be more proud. Now we begin the work of maintaining and building upon this success—for the next 10 years and beyond.”
The next comprehensive review is scheduled to take place in the spring of 2034. In accordance with NECHE policy, NEC will submit an interim report on January 15, 2029.
Continuation of accreditation affirms New England College as a leader in higher education, dedicated to fostering student success and maintaining the highest standards of academic excellence. ■
In response to the growing global demand for artificial intelligence (AI) expertise, NEC has launched a forward-thinking fully online Master of Science in AI degree program. This carefully designed program aims to equip professionals with the advanced skills needed to drive innovation.
The new online program provides students with the technical expertise and real-world experience required to lead in AI development and applications.
With AI revolutionizing industries from healthcare to finance and technology and a job growth of 32 percent over the past two years, the demand for skilled professionals in this field is at an all-time high. NEC’s AI master’s program offers students the opportunity to gain critical knowledge in AI, machine learning, data science, and neural networks while allowing them to study on their own schedule from anywhere.
"Our new master’s program equips students with the cutting-edge skills and knowledge they need to shape the future and make a meaningful impact in this rapidly advancing field,” said Dr. Hartung.
32%
Job Growth in the Past Two Years
“This program is a game-changer for anyone looking to lead in the AI revolution. AI isn’t just transforming industries—it’s redefining how we live and work.“
Dr. Erin Wilkinson Hartung Dean of the Management Division
key features of NEC’s Master of Science in AI
Comprehensive Curriculum
The program offers a deep dive into AI concepts, including natural language processing, data analytics, and deep learning. Students will also learn the ethical implications of AI and explore its real-world applications in various industries.
Flexible Online Format
Designed for working professionals, the online format offers flexibility while maintaining the same academic rigor as on-campus programs.
Hands-On Learning
Students will engage with real-world projects and case studies, ensuring they graduate with the practical skills necessary for success.
Expert Faculty
Students will learn from experienced AI professionals who bring their real-world knowledge to the virtual classroom.
Career Advancement
With the growing demand for AI talent, the program is designed to position graduates for leadership roles in AI development, research, and implementation.
NEC’s Master of Science in AI degree program is ideal for individuals with a background in data science, information technology, software engineering, or related fields who want to enhance their careers in AI. Whether students are looking to develop new AI technologies or implement AI solutions in their respective industries, this program provides the skills to help professionals succeed. ■
LEARN MORE ABOUT NEC's online Masters of Science in AI program.
NURS NG
NEC RECEIVES ACCREDITATION IN NURSING
NEC’s three-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program has officially received national accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
CCNE, recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education as a national accreditation agency, plays a vital role in maintaining the quality and integrity of nursing programs nationwide. Following a thorough review of NEC’s BSN program, CCNE determined that it substantially complies with all four CCNE accreditation standards, with no compliance issues identified in any key elements.
These standards include:
• The alignment of the BSN program’s mission and goals with those of the College
• Adequate fiscal and facility support provided by the College
• A curriculum that effectively supports the program’s mission, goals, and learning outcomes
• The program’s success in achieving its intended outcomes
"
NEC’s three-year cooperative BSN program is the first of its kind in New Hampshire.
During the accreditation review process, CCNE recognized that our academic model is a highly effective and efficient way to educate the next generation of nurses and move them into clinical settings better prepared.
Dr. Angela McPhee-Smith Dean of Nursing and Health Professions
NURSING STUDENTS ENROLLED 188
CREDITS
Completed in a 12-month academic calendar in approximately three years
EARN WHILE
“With the combined expertise of Dr. McPhee-Smith, our nursing program staff and faculty, and NEC’s leadership, our BSN program has quickly become a difference maker that helps address the nursing shortage across New Hampshire,” stated Dr. Patricia Corbett, Vice President of Academic Affairs at NEC. “Going forward, we expect this program to continue to grow and fulfill its mission to train highly skilled nurses ready to step into careers as soon as they graduate.” ■
LEARN
MORE ABOUT NEC's cooperative BSN program.
Rich Pellegrino
NEC Associate Professor Illustration
Rich Pellegrino used his award-winning style to create a poster celebrating football’s return to NEC.
A teacher for 13 years, he also boasts 17 years of professional illustration experience across a variety of genres, from picture books to internationally exhibiting original paintings. He has been featured on WMUR Manchester’s NH Chronicle for his illustration career and work in education.
Rich’s clients include the NFL, New England Patriots, Kansas City Chiefs, Detroit Lions, Baltimore Ravens, Tampa Bay Lightning, Boston Celtics, Connecticut Sun (WNBA), Microsoft Xbox, Warner Bros., AMC, and Wes Anderson (director of The Grand Budapest Hotel).
Learn more about Rich. richpellegrino.com
Ryan O'Rourke reimagined NEC’s campus in his own artistic style when he created the College’s new campus map, now used throughout NEC’s website.
Since 2006, Ryan has taught a wide variety of classes focused on the various markets and mediums essential to the field of illustration. He has enjoyed working with a wide range of students across various levels of development, continually helping students discover their own unique way of telling a story visually and developing successful careers from the professional relationships established under his tutelage.
His work outside of academia includes illustration for a wide variety of editorial, advertising, institutional, and book publishing clients.
After 12 years of dedicated service, Associate Professor of Art Jay Bordage is retiring from New England College. A professor focusing on graphic design, he reflects on his time at NEC, the changes he has witnessed, and his plans for the future.
BORDAGE Retrospective
A conversation with JAY
Q. What brought you to NEC, and what has your journey here been like?
A. I came to NEC 12 years ago as one of two full-time faculty members transitioning from Chester College of New England after it closed. My background wasn’t originally in art—I started in psychology and worked in human services before going back to school for art and eventually teaching. Coming to NEC was a turning point. The faculty here are incredibly generous and collaborative, and the sense of community was unlike any other institution I had been part of. It was a welcoming place from the start.
Q. How have the art and design programs evolved during your time here?
A. NEC has always adapted to change while keeping the students’ experience at the forefront. When I arrived, the department was small, but its educators and students were full of passion for art and design. Over time, we navigated financial challenges, faculty transitions, and ultimately, the merger with New Hampshire Institute of Art, which transformed our programs. That shift significantly expanded our curriculum and student opportunities. I think NEC handled that transition with care, ensuring that faculty and students from both institutions felt supported.
SCAN to WATCH INTERVIEW with Jay Bordage.
Q. What are some of the moments that stand out from your years at NEC?
A. One of the most memorable experiences was co-leading a Study Away trip to Venice for the Biennale, the world’s largest international art exhibition. Watching students, many of whom had never been on a plane before, engage deeply with art on a global stage was incredible. Another standout moment was when NEC underwent a rebranding, and my senior graphic design students were invited to critique the design presentation. They asked the hardest, most insightful questions in the room—it was a proud professor moment.
Q. Who have been some of your biggest influences at NEC?
A. There are so many. Darryl Furtkamp and Devon Mozdierz deeply influenced my artistic journey. They were the ones who encouraged me to explore painting, which is now my main creative focus. Inez McDermott, our art historian, was a fantastic collaborator, especially on the Study Away trips. And the entire faculty at the Institute of Art and Design has been an incredible source of support. There’s a unique culture here where people are willing to step in, help each other out, and put students first.
Q. What do you hope your students have taken away from your courses?
A. More than anything, I hope they’ve learned that education doesn’t end at graduation. In graphic design, every new client and project requires you to become a mini-expert in a new field. The best thing a college experience can teach you is how to keep learning and adapting. I want my students to be curious, flexible, and engaged with the world around them.
Q. Can you share a story about a student who made a lasting impression on you?
A. There are many, but one student stands out. She was brilliant, energetic, and had trouble sitting still, something I completely related to. Instead of forcing her into a traditional learning structure, I let her move as she needed to. She thrived, winning the art award at NEC and going on to a successful design career. In fact, I recently hired her to design my website. It’s a fullcircle moment—she was once my student, and now I’m learning from her.
Q. What’s next for you in retirement?
A. I’m diving headfirst into painting. My goal is to maintain a daily studio practice and continue growing as an artist. I’ll also be traveling, but always with art in mind. My first trip will be to the Netherlands to see a major exhibition by Anselm Kiefer, one of my artistic heroes. And while I’m retiring from full-time teaching, I hope to stay involved with NEC in an advisory capacity.
Q. How would you like to be remembered at NEC?
A. More than anything, I hope people know how much this school meant to me. My time at NEC has been the professional accomplishment I’m most proud of. I’m not saying goodbye. I’ll always look back at my years here with deep appreciation and gratitude.
As NEC wishes a wonderful retirement to Jay Bordage, his impact on students, colleagues, and the institution itself is undeniable. His dedication to teaching, his ability to inspire students, and his passion for art will continue to shape NEC for years to come. ■
Change makers
When did you graduate from NEC, and what was your major?
I graduated with a bachelor’s in Business Administration, cum laude, in May 2024, and I will graduate with my MBA in Strategic Leadership in May 2025.
What activities were you involved in on campus?
During my time at NEC, I was a two-time Academic All-Conference member of the Men’s Wrestling team; a member of the Business Club; and a member of Chi Alpha Sigma, the National College Athlete Honor Society. I also served as a peer tutor for NEC’s undergraduate Business courses.
Adam Presa
NEW HAMPSHIRE
BA in Business Administration '24
MBA in Strategic Leadership '25
Learn more about Adam.
What has your journey (personal and professional) been since graduating from NEC?
A motto that I make a lot of my decisions around is “live life with no regrets.” We all only get one opportunity to live, and I’d rather take the risk now than think about what could have been when I’m older. I never want fear to dictate my decision making, whether it’s running for public office, being a first-generation college student, or opening a business.
For every decision I make, there almost needs to be a requirement of risk involved. Nobody ever grows staying where they’re comfortable, and leading up to this moment and the rest of my life, I’m going to make decisions based on my goals and ambitions, regardless of the risk of failing.
Can you share more details about your recent run for office in New Hampshire?
Campaigning for public office was an experience I am truly grateful to have gone through. It was unlike anything I had done in my life up to that point. There were a few moments through my campaign that really stood out to me, the first being the amount of support I received from my constituents. Being considered very young for the position of state representative, I was expecting a lot of people to be against me because of my lack of experience. But the very opposite happened. I had many people reach out to me and explain their gratitude about me running because I don’t fit the mold of a typical politician. This overwhelming support made up for all the negativity, and I’m very glad that I made the choice to run.
Had you always wanted to enter politics?
Leading up to the moment I decided to run for public office, I had never considered it as a possibility. I have no family involved in politics; I never took a political science class or any class pertaining to the political field. When I decided to run, it was because I felt there was a lack of representation among the younger generation of people, and I wanted to be their voice.
How did your time at NEC prepare you for life after college?
I am a completely different person who will be graduating from NEC this spring than I was when I came to New England College in the fall of 2022. Between wrestling and classes, and all the great coaches and professors who have helped me throughout the last three years, it has made a huge impact on who I am and what I’m doing today. I developed discipline through wrestling and time management skills from taking more than a full course load. Although I never took a politics class, the information I gathered and the soft skills I’ve gained play a big factor in the decisions I make in my life today.
What are one or two NEC moments or people who have had the most impact on you?
At New England College, I am deeply grateful to former NEC Men’s Wrestling Head Coach Raymond DeRosa. Not only did he give me a chance to continue my wrestling career at the collegiate level, he also provided me the opportunity to earn my MBA while serving as a Graduate Assistant coach for the Men’s and Women’s Wrestling teams. Throughout the last few years since we’ve known each other, Raymond has always been there to help me with anything I need. I am truly grateful to have him in my life. ■
Alumna and Longtime Friend
Athena Anne Sayce
1931–August 21, 2024
Anne became part of the New England College community in 1968 when her husband, Montford “Bunny” Sayce, joined the College’s faculty as a political science professor. During their 30 years at NEC, Anne and Bunny devoted themselves to NEC students, opening their home to students and acting as surrogate parents. Many of the students who received Anne and Bunny’s warmth and kindness called themselves “Sayceans” and remained lifelong friends of Anne’s.
For two years in the mid-1970s, Anne served as the admission director for NEC’s campus in Arundel, England, while Bunny served as the campus director. She founded Friends of the NEC Library, which continues in its work to enhance the facilities, resources, and capabilities of the Library for the benefit of the College and neighboring communities. Anne earned her BA in English Literature from the College in 1974 and her master’s in counseling from the University of New Hampshire. She went on to become a nationally certified counselor with a focus on career counseling and designed career-related courses for NEC, Keene State College, and the School for Lifelong Learning.
Several years after Bunny suffered a stroke, Anne moved from Henniker to Hopkinton. After he passed away in 2012, she moved to a senior community in Concord. Wherever she went, Anne shared her kindness and joy with others.
Former Faculty Member, Coach, and Director of Athletics
George Hamilton
1935–July 18, 2024
Hamilton joined NEC in 1964 as the Coordinator of the Physical Education program. During his tenure, he made significant contributions by coaching the men’s basketball, cross country, golf, and baseball teams. In 1974, Hamilton took on the role of Director of Athletics, a position he held for 12 years. His leadership was instrumental in NEC’s athletic achievements, including winning the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) District 5 Athletic Administrator of the Year award and founding the NEC Athletics Hall of Fame in 1992, to which he was inducted in 1997.
Hamilton’s dedication to NEC extended beyond his administrative roles. He taught physical education for 21 years, impacting countless students and athletes. His service to the NEC community spanned five decades, and in 1999, he was honored with the NEC Honorary Alumni Award.
Hamilton graduated from Springfield College in 1958, where he excelled as a student-athlete in football, basketball, baseball, track and field, and golf. His outstanding achievements earned him induction into the NAIA Hall of Fame in 2002 and the Springfield Hall of Fame in 2009. In recognition of his lifelong dedication to athletics, he received the NAIA Meritorious Service Award in 2004.
In retirement, Hamilton remained a resident of Henniker, continuing to inspire those around him with his passion for sports.
MEMORIAM
Allan N. Jeannotte '58
Athena A. Sayce '74
Craig C. Young '70
George K. Barrett '65
Robert Hatfield '69
Kenneth Kustra '65
Kyle B. Van Saun '74
Martha S. Keedwell '76
Nancy C. Westgate Emerson '74, P '04
Ronald H. Roy '65
Former Civil Engineering Professor for NEC
Donald Blanchard
1931–January 3, 2024
Blanchard began his college journey at the University of New Hampshire but left UNH in 1954 to join the Air Force and serve in Japan. After returning to the States, he finished his BS in Civil Engineering at UNH and interned with the New Hampshire Department of Transportation. He went on to earn an MS from the University of California, Berkeley and serve as a professor in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada.
Donald joined New England College in 1963. He moved to Henniker to teach Civil Engineering at NEC and led an effort to gain accreditation for NEC's Civil Engineering program. He taught his last class in the spring of 1996.
While living in Henniker, Donald served in the fire department for more than 20 years, first as a deputy forest fire warden and later as assistant fire chief. He was also active with the American Society of Civil Engineers and the New Hampshire Land Surveyors Association.
Donald’s life was marked by varied interests and activities. He was a husband, father, airman, civil engineer, tide pool explorer, teacher, fireman, land surveyor, farmer, hunter, and skier. No matter his role, he was committed to family, community, country, and God. Shining the light of the Lord was his primary ambition throughout his life’s journey.
