Press Releases – 91Թ 91Թ Thu, 09 Nov 2023 16:21:38 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 /wp-content/uploads/2019/11/cropped-wmcc-logo-2-32x32.png Press Releases – 91Թ 32 32 The Aspen Institute Names 91Թ as a Top 150 U.S.Community Colleges Eligible for the 2025 Aspen Prize /wmcc-eligible-for-2025-aspen-prize/ Thu, 09 Nov 2023 16:21:38 +0000 /?p=19174

$1 Million Prize Recognizes Excellence in Equitable Outcomes for Students in and After College

CONTACT: Tatiana Johnson, 202-736-3538, tatiana.johnson@aspeninstitute.org
Laura Bisulca, 603-342-3024, lbisulca@ccsnh.edu

WASHINGTON D.C., October 31, 2023 – Today, the Aspen Institute named 91Թ as one of the 150 institutions eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s signature recognition of high achievement and performance among two-year colleges. The institutions selected for this honor stand out among more than 1,000 community colleges nationwide as having high and improving levels of student success as well as equitable outcomes for Black and Hispanic students and those from lower-income backgrounds.

“91Թ is honored to be among the 150 community colleges nationwide that have been invited to apply for the 2025 Aspen Prize, and we are proud to be the sole representative in New England,” said Melanie Robbins, Interim President of 91Թ. “This invitation itself is a testament to our institution’s performance and commitment to students.”

The Aspen Prize spotlights exemplary community colleges in order to drive attention to colleges achieving post-graduate success for all students, and is a central way Aspen researches highly effective student success strategies that are shared with the field. The 150 eligible colleges have been invited to submit student success data and narratives about strategies to achieve better and more equitable student outcomes as the next step in an intensive review process that culminates in the naming of the Aspen Prize winner in spring 2025. The eligible colleges represent the diversity and depth of the community college sector. Located in urban, rural, and suburban areas across 30 states, these colleges serve as few as 169 students and as many as 49,619.

“The Aspen Prize is rooted first and foremost in an assessment of whether colleges are walking the walk,” said Josh Wyner, executive director of the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. “As community colleges face enrollment variations, enroll students with pandemic-related learning loss, and graduate students into a rapidly changing labor market, it is easy to lose track of what matters most. The best community colleges are continuing to focus on advancing the core mission: making sure as many students as possible graduate with credentials that lead to fulfilling careers and reflect the development of diverse talent that communities, states, and our nation need.”

While community colleges are an essential contributor to our nation’s success, student outcomes vary substantially among institutions. Aspen measures those variances using multiple data sources and honors colleges with outstanding achievement in six critical areas: teaching and learning, certificate and degree completion, transfer and bachelor’s attainment, workforce success, equitable access to the college, and equitable outcomes for students of color and students from low-income backgrounds.

“These 150 colleges have achieved high and improving levels of student success for all students, including those who are often failed by our institutions,” Wyner said. “We’re excited to learn over the coming months how they achieved that success so we can share the most impressive practices with others in the field.”

In this first round, eligibility for the Aspen Prize is based on publicly available data. Colleges must show strong, improving, and equitable student outcomes in first-to-second year retention, credentials awarded, and completion and transfer rates. Nationwide, about 15 percent of community colleges have been invited to apply (150 of just under 1,000 public two-year colleges assessed for Prize eligibility). The full list can be accessed on the .

The next steps in the process include:

  • April 2024: Announcement of 25 semifinalists, selected based on assessments of extensive data and strategy documents by the Prize selection panel, a group of 16 experts in community colleges, higher education, and workforce training, and interviews with institutional leadership teams
  • June 2024: Announcement of 10 finalists, selected by the Prize selection panel
  • Fall 2024: Site visits to each of the ten finalists, during which the Aspen Institute and partners will collect additional information, including employment and earnings data and insights about promising practices
  • January 2025: Prize award decisions made by distinguished, independent Prize jury at full-day meeting
  • Spring 2025: Announcement of the Aspen Prize winner and celebration of the 10 finalists in Washington DC

For a full list of the top 150 eligible institutions and to read more on the selection process, visit
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The Aspen Prize is generously funded by Ascendium, the Joyce Foundation, JPMorgan Chase, and the Kresge Foundation.

Previous winners are:

  • 2023: Amarillo College (TX) and Imperial Valley College (CA)
  • 2021: San Antonio College (TX)
  • 2019: Indian River State College (FL) and Miami Dade College (FL)
  • 2017: Lake Area Technical Institute (SD)
  • 2015: Santa Fe College (FL)
  • 2013: Santa Barbara City College (CA) and Walla Walla Community College (WA)
  • 2011: Valencia College (FL)

Note: Colleges that have won the Aspen Prize are not eligible to apply in subsequent years

The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program supports colleges and universities in their quest to achieve a higher standard of excellence, delivering credentials that unlock life-changing careers and strengthen our economy, society, and democracy. We know it takes visionary college leaders to lead scaled, sustainable reforms, and we make it our mission to equip them with the knowledge, skills, and research-backed tools to inspire change, shift practice, and advance the capacity of colleges to deliver excellent and equitable student outcomes. For more information, visit and follow us on and .

The Aspen Institute is a global nonprofit organization whose purpose is to ignite human potential to build understanding and create new possibilities for a better world. Founded in 1949, the Institute drives change through dialogue, leadership, and action to help solve society’s greatest challenges. It is headquartered in Washington, DC and has a campus in Aspen, Colorado, as well as an international network of partners. For more information, visit .

]]> Mascoma Bank Foundation Donates $20,000 to Support Advanced Technology Building and Program Expansion at 91Թ /mascoma-bank-donation/ Thu, 12 Oct 2023 17:42:31 +0000 /?p=19116 Advanced Technology Building

Littleton, N.H. (October 10, 2023) – As the fall semester got underway, 91Թ (91Թ) received a $20,000 donation from Mascoma Bank Foundation in support of equipment and program development for the new Advanced Technology Building at the Littleton Academic Center. The Advanced Technology Building project is designed to help the college meet current and future workforce needs in the North Country in high-demand programs by increasing capacity, improving access, increasing regional recruitment and deepening community integration.

“A shared vision in the community on workforce development has made our new Advanced Technology Building a reality this fall,” said Dr. Chuck Lloyd, CCSNH vice chancellor and former 91Թ president. “We are grateful for the support from Mascoma Bank Foundation for helping us build upon the generosity that we have already received from the community. This donation is vital in supporting training the next generation of skilled technicians and mechanics and will help fill critical workforce needs in the North Country.”

Construction of the Advanced Technology Building began in September 2022. When completed, the facility will include a new technology hub to grow 91Թ’s current programs and include a state-of-the-art innovation lab, a welding lab and flexible learning spaces for emerging fields in high demand. It will also be the new home for the growing Diesel Heavy Equipment Technology program, the only nationally accredited program of its kind in the New England. Enhanced program offerings, facilities and equipment at the Littleton Academic Center will bring in-demand programs to a growing geographic hub in the North Country while engaging with business and industry professionals locally.

The Mascoma Bank Foundation provides capital funding to not-for-profit organizations within Mascoma Bank’s market area to contribute to the long-term benefit of its communities. The Bank serves New Hampshire from Keene to Lancaster along with parts of Maine and Vermont.

“At Mascoma Bank, our commitment to the community goes beyond offering a broad range of financial services, meeting the credit needs of our customers, and employing more than 400 people. Donationsto leading community organizations like 91Թ is an importantway for us to contribute,” said MerrittPatridge, Mascoma Bank Foundation chair. “91Թ plays an integral role insupporting the next generation in the North Country. We are grateful for theirwork and our shared commitment to our community.”

For more information on the Advanced Technology Building, visit 91Թ.edu/Building-Community.

91Թ (91Թ) is located in Berlin, New Hampshire with a satellite campus in Littleton, and is one of seven colleges in the Community College System of New Hampshire. 91Թ offers associate degree and certificate programs, plus training options, preparing students for 21st century job opportunities as well as transfer pathways to four-year colleges and universities. 91Թ is fully accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Courses within 91Թ and the Community College System are the most affordable in New Hampshire and the Littleton Academic Center increases access to all students in the North Country Region. Courses are available day, evening and online. 91Թ courses transfer to four-year colleges and universities in New Hampshire and across the country.

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]]> Melanie Robbins Appointed Interim President of 91Թ /melanie-robbins-appointed-interim-president/ Tue, 03 Oct 2023 12:59:13 +0000 /?p=19090 Concord, N.H. (October 2, 2023) – The Community College System of New Hampshire’s (CCSNH) Board of Trustees unanimously voted to appoint Melanie Robbins as interim president of 91Թ (91Թ).The appointment is effectiveOctober 1and is expected to lastthrough January 31,2024while CCSNH conducts a search for the permanent successor to current president, Dr. Charles (“Chuck”) Lloyd, who was recently appointed to serve as vice chancellor for the Community College System.

“I am really pleased that Melanie has agreed to serve as interim president. Melanie is a valued member of the college leadership team and has been a steady hand at 91Թ for quite some time,” Dr. Lloyd said. “She has recently managed some very big changes at the college which has prepared her for this important role. The college remains in very capable hands during this important transition.”

Ms. Robbins has been affiliated with 91Թ since 1996, having begun her service to the college as a part-time teacher assistant for what was then the New Hampshire Technical College-Berlin. Her work shifted to the Littleton Academic Center when that facility housed only two classrooms on the Ammonoosuc River. Over time, as that enterprise expanded, Ms. Robbins’ professional responsibilities also grew. She began serving as program coordinator and then moved into the role of director of the Littleton Academic Center, before assuming her current responsibilities as director of Academic Centers for 91Թ and serving as a member of the college’s leadership team. Over the past several years, Ms. Robbins has worked with community stakeholders and college colleagues to guide the expansion of the center that now includes a science lab, an allied health wing, and most recently, the acquisition of the property that now houses the newly constructed 10,000 square foot 91Թ Advanced Technology Building.

“Throughout Ms. Robbins long and dedicated service to 91Թ, she has been an advocate for students and an ambassador for the college, building strong bridges with the communities that are served by 91Թ,” said Mark Rubinstein, chancellor for CCSNH. “She engenders trust and respect and is ideally suited to ensure stability and to work with members of the 91Թ leadership team to sustain the positive trajectory of 91Թ while we pursue a permanent successor for the presidency of the college. I am grateful for Ms. Robbins’ willingness to accept that responsibility to steward the college through this transition.”

In accepting the nomination to become 91Թ’s Interim President, Ms. Robbins said “I am honored to be able to serve 91Թ during this transition.91Թ will continue to be the driver for integration of education and workforce needs for the North Country. My goal is toensure a seamless continuation of the projects and initiatives that are already in progress, from our Guided Pathways work to the completion of the Advanced Technology Building.Together with the dedicated and talented faculty and staff, we will fulfill our mission.”

About CCSNH
New Hampshire’s seven community colleges, located across the state to serve every NH community and region, enroll more than 20,000 students annually including 8,000 high school students who take courses for dual high school and college credit at a reduced cost. Thanks to state support, CCSNH is also able to broaden the number of courses that high schoolers can take at no cost, getting a head start on college requirements and saving from the eventual costs of a college degree. CCSNH also offers short-term, customized career training that prepares individuals for in-demand jobs and helps New Hampshire employees meet their hiring needs. CCSNH works to align its programming with the needs of the state, helping thousands of students enter careers or begin their education before transferring to a four-year college or university. CCSNH has long been the largest transfer partner of the state’s university system and has relationships with numerous other transfer destinations for students.

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]]> Community College System of New Hampshire Announces New Promise Program to Provide Need-Based Gap Funding to Eligible NH Students /promise-program/ Wed, 12 Jul 2023 17:24:57 +0000 /?p=18785

Combined with federal grants, new program promises to cover tuition and required comprehensive fees for the next year for eligible students

Manchester, N.H. (July 12, 2023) – The Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH) will be offering a significant, new need-based funding program for the 2023-24 academic year. CCSNH’s Promise Program will help New Hampshire students who qualify based on financial need by bridging the gap between grants, scholarships, and the cost of tuition and required comprehensive fees, at all seven of New Hampshire’s community colleges. The program was announced by system leadership on July 12 at Manchester Community College, with students, guests and college personnel in attendance.

Funding for the Promise Program was included in the biennial budget passed by the New Hampshire Legislature and signed into law by Governor Sununu. The Promise Program is need-based financial assistance for New Hampshire students enrolled in courses that are part of an academic degree or certificate program. Potential recipients of the Promise Program need to complete the federal Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), be Pell-eligible, and enroll in at least six credits per semester. CCSNH will apply any scholarships and grants first and the gap that remains may be covered through the Promise Program.

“Some people say that New Hampshire faces a challenging future, owing to slow growth and an aging population, but that also means that New Hampshire’s future is filled with opportunities for people who are prepared to pursue them,” said Mark Rubinstein, CCSNH Chancellor. “With the state’s new investment in our work, and really more, with the state’s investment in the promise and the potential of the residents of the Granite State, we can now help more students who want to learn and contribute to New Hampshire’s future, by strengthening the workforce that supports a thriving economy, that supports innovation, and that meets the needs of the people of this state. That is the purpose behind the Promise Program.”

This new program comes just two weeks after CCSNH announced a tuition freeze for the 2023-2024 school year as part of its continued commitment to provide a high-quality education that is affordable for New Hampshire students and families. Ninety-three percent of students at CCSNH are in-state residents, and the vast majority remain in New Hampshire after graduating, joining the local workforce, or continuing their education through one of the transfer pathways between NH’s community colleges and bachelor’s degree-granting institutions.

CCSNH is dedicated to the educational, professional, and personal success of its students; a skilled workforce for the state’s businesses; and a strong New Hampshire economy.

For more information on the Promise Program, visit ChooseCommunity.Com/Promise.

About CCSNH
New Hampshire’s seven community colleges, located across the state to serve every NH community and region, enroll more than 20,000 students annually including 8,000 high school students who take courses for dual high school and college credit at a reduced cost. Thanks to state support, CCSNH is also able to broaden the number of courses that high schoolers can take at no cost, getting a head start on college requirements and saving from the eventual costs of a college degree. CCSNH also offers short-term, customized career training that prepares individuals for in-demand jobs and helps New Hampshire employees meet their hiring needs. CCSNH works to align its programming with the needs of the state, helping thousands of students enter careers or begin their education before transferring to a four-year college or university. CCSNH has long been the largest transfer partner of the state’s university system and has relationships with numerous other transfer destinations for students.

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CCSNH Promise Program FAQs


Who is eligible?

The Promise Program is need-based financial assistance for New Hampshire students enrolled in courses that are part of an academic degree or certificate program at one of seven community colleges. If you are eligible for a Pell grant of any amount, you may qualify.

You will know if you are Pell-eligible once you have submitted the federal Free Application for Federal Student Aid (), a form completed by current and prospective college students in the United States to determine their eligibility for student financial aid. [open link in new window]

Full and part-time students are eligible. To receive Promise Program funds, you must enroll for at least 6 credits per semester.

How do I apply for funding?

You must complete the FAFSA and all federal requirements, if any. If you need help with the FAFSA process, contact your college’s Financial Aid Office. There is no separate application for Promise Program funds.

How much funding can I receive?

If you receive any amount of Pell funding, the Promise Program can cover the gap between your grants and the full amount of tuition and required comprehensive fees. If you receive other grants in addition to Pell such as Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG), Unique Scholarship, Governor’s Scholarship, or private tuition scholarships, we will apply those first; and then any gap that remains may be covered through the Promise Program.

I was only planning to attend part-time. Can I change my plans to add more courses and pay for them with Promise Program funding?

Yes. If you are eligible for Promise Program funds, you may add courses; the program will cover full-time enrollment for eligible students.

I already applied and registered for classes for the Fall 2023 semester. Am I still eligible for the Promise Program?

Yes. If you have completed the FAFSA and all federal requirements, you will be notified by the Financial Aid Office.

What about specialized program fees?

Some programs do have specific fees that cover specialized materials, tools, and equipment (for example, welding, auto, nursing, dental and some others). Those additional fees are not presently covered by the Promise Program, but you can review your financial aid offer for other potential sources of aid.

Can I connect with someone to learn more about the Promise Program?

Yes. Please select contact information for the college you are attending or wish to attend (eligibility is the same at all NH community colleges).

Great Bay Community College

gbfinaid@ccsnh.edu
Lakes Region Community
College		 lrccfinancialaid@ccsnh.edu
Manchester Community
College		 mcc-fa@ccsnh.edu
Nashua Community College nashua_financial_aid@ccsnh.edu
NHTI – Concord’s Community College nhtifinaid@ccsnh.edu
River Valley Community College rvccfinaid@ccsnh.edu
91Թ wmccfinancialaid@ccsnh.edu

Where is the funding coming from?

The Promise Program was included in the biennial budget passed by the New Hampshire Legislature and signed into law by Governor Sununu. This is the first time a program like this has been funded at New Hampshire’s community colleges. This is currently a one-time investment by the State, and the program will only be continued in future years if additional funds are appropriated.

How do I apply for admission?

Information on programs and how to apply can be found here

Is there anything else I should know?

At New Hampshire’s community colleges, we want to help you set educational goals and achieve them. Whether it’s this Promise Program or other sources of aid we identify, talk to us and let us find a way to help. Every year, thousands of students achieve their goals at New Hampshire’s community colleges. You can, too.

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]]> New Hampshire Community Colleges Announce 2023-24 Tuition Freeze /ccsnh-announce-2023-24-tuition-freeze/ Thu, 29 Jun 2023 13:18:34 +0000 /?p=18771

5th consective year with no increase

Concord, NH (June 27, 2023) – For the 5th straight year, the (CCSNH) is freezing its tuition rate as part of its continued commitment to provide a high-quality education that is affordable for New Hampshire students and families. The freeze was unanimously approved by the Finance Committee of the CCSNH Board of Trustees, preceding a vote by the full board later this summer.

In-state tuition will remain at $215 per credit, which equates to $6,450 for the school year for a full-time course load. Ninety-three percent of students at CCSNH are state residents, and the vast majority remain in New Hampshire after graduating, joining the local workforce or continuing their education through one of the many transfer pathways between the seven community colleges and bachelor’s degree-granting institutions.

The tuition freeze announcement came as Governor Sununu signed into law the state budget passed in June by the NH Legislature, which includes funds CCSNH had sought to make the tuition freeze possible. Both the Governor, as well as the House and Senate supported the budget request.

“The historic bipartisan budget I signed into law unlocks unprecedented opportunity for students, families, businesses, and communities across the Granite State,” said Governor Chris Sununu. “Our community college system plays a central role in equipping the next generation of New Hampshire’s workforce with the skills needed to build a thriving economy that keeps the Granite State moving in the right direction. I applaud the Community College System trustees for making smart, targeted investments to prioritize affordable access to a top-quality education for our students.”

The last time CCSNH raised tuition was 2018, with a $5/credit increase. This was the only increase in well over a decade as tuition across CCSNH’s seven colleges has increased only 2.4% in total since 2011.

“We provide our students with high-quality programs that serve them and serve New Hampshire well,” said CCSNH Chancellor Mark Rubinstein. “Our ability to make those programs affordable for students and families—programs in nursing and other healthcare fields, in advanced manufacturing, automotive technology, HVAC, and welding, as well as transfer programs in areas like business and liberal arts—is only possible because of the investments that the State makes in our work. Keeping tuition frozen and virtually flat for more than a decade is one outcome of this vital partnership.”

Rubinstein also highlighted funding in the approved budget to expand access to courses that high school students can take for college credit, through early college programs in their high school, on the college campuses and online. “With this increased level of support, we can amplify the impact with greater affordability for New Hampshire students and their families, helping them to avoid, or at least minimize, college debt as they prepare for the good jobs that this state has to offer,” Rubinstein said.

In addition to the tuition freeze and expansion of early college opportunities, CCSNH is in the final stages of creating a new “Promise Program,” which will provide gap funding for eligible students with financial need. Details of the program will be announced later this summer.

“I’ve been able to put money into savings for the first time in my life due to the low tuition at MCC,” said David Olsen, Manchester Community College Liberal Arts student from Goffstown. “’m glad tuition rates are frozen, and college will continue to be affordable. I’ve also had to spend very little money on textbooks at MCC thanks to the low-cost or no-cost textbooks many of my classes have used, which has been very helpful.”

New Hampshire’s seven community colleges, located across the state to serve every NH community and region, enroll more than 20,000 students annually including 8,000 high school students who take courses for dual high school and college credit at a reduced cost. Thanks to state support, CCSNH is also able to broaden the number of courses that high schoolers can take at no cost, getting a head start on college requirements and saving from the eventual costs of a college degree. CCSNH also offers short-term, customized career training that prepares individuals for in-demand jobs and helps New Hampshire employees meet their hiring needs. CCSNH works to align its programming with the needs of the state, helping thousands of students enter careers or begin their education before transferring to a four-year college or university. CCSNH has long been the largest transfer partner of the state’s university system and has relationships with numerous other transfer destinations for students.

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]]> Earning Credit for Prior Learning Opportunities /earning-credit-for-prior-learning-opportunities/ Thu, 22 Dec 2022 15:42:15 +0000 /?p=17745

Not all learning happens in the classroom. In fact, some of the most profound learning people engage in takes place at home, at work and in the community. At 91Թ (91Թ), we recognize that all individuals possess distinctive assets, including a set of uniquely developed knowledge and skills. To honor these diverse bodies of knowledge, no matter how or where their learning was acquired, we have streamlined our efforts to offer multiple ways students can earn credit for prior learning.

According to the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL), more than 22 percent of the working population has some college credits and/or training but no postsecondary degree. For individuals who started working towards a college degree and for whatever reason did not complete, 91Թ honors courses students have taken at other accredited institutions, provided the student earned a grade of C or better (C+ for Nursing/Health Science required laboratory courses). Our onboarding team works with students to help them apply their transfer credits toward a degree or certificate pathway that would empower them in the career field of their choice.

More research released by CAEL reveals that 37 percent of college students are 25 or older, and 64 percent of college students work while attending – with an impressive 40 percent working full-time jobs. Because of this, 91Թ recognizes that saving money and time is foremost in the minds of the college students and potential college-goers. As a result, 91Թ has outlined opportunities for individuals to earn credit by examination for those who want their knowledge and skills assessed via a standardized test. Among these options are the College Level Examination Protocol (CLEP), the DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSST), and the Challenge Exam, which is an exam created in-house by request.

Because not all students perform optimally in standardized testing situations, we also offer students the option of creating a portfolio of evidence demonstrating their learning, from resumes to certificates of training, to performance reviews and letters from employers. For those who possess an industry recognized credential, such as Certified Clinical Medical Assistant from the National Healthcareers Association, we have also created crosswalks for credit, which demonstrate to a student exactly which courses they can automatically earn credit for simply by submitting a valid copy of their credential with a credit for prior learning request form.

New Hampshire economic development organizations have made it no secret that by 2025, two-thirds of all jobs will require some form of post-secondary education. It is for this reason the state has committed to a 65 X 25 moonshot, which – with combined statewide agency efforts – would lead to 65 percent of New Hampshire adults holding a high-value credential or postsecondary degree by 2025.

91Թ is committed to doing our part to empower North Country residents and break down barriers that might otherwise stand in the way between them and more financial security in their future. Not only have we committed to expanding the availability of credit for prior learning, but we have worked with industry partners in areas of high need to develop innovative approaches to directly meet industry needs and enable individuals to be job ready from day one.

One example is our newly implemented Educator Fast Path pilot program, which allows school administrative units and the paraprofessional educators working for them to partner with us in creating a pathway to teacher certification in as little as three years. Paraprofessional educators have the ability to earn a special education certificate through guided portfolio assessment of five out of eight classes, providing them the opportunity to learn while on the job and demonstrate proof of their competency via portfolio assessment.

At a time when the economy is in flux, the job market is ever-changing, and families have to concern themselves with how to pay for heat this winter, it is incumbent upon us to rise to the occasion and level the playing field, remove barriers for upward mobility, and support the collective security of our North Country citizenry. 91Թ is proud to be part of the solution.

For more information about 91Թ’s credit for prior learning options, visit .

Cynthia Pike is the Director of Workforce Development & Academic Integration at 91Թ.

]]> Local Colleges Partner With Capone Iron Corporation For Apprenticeship /local-colleges-partner-with-capone-iron-corporation-for-apprenticeship/ Tue, 13 Dec 2022 15:40:55 +0000 /?p=17700

The Community College System of New Hampshire and 91Թ are creating a pathway for future welders and fitters.

Dec. 12, 2022

Steel fabrication is an essential part of construction and of maintaining the integrity of New Hampshire’s infrastructure. To keep this industry’s talent pipeline filled, ApprenticeshipNH – a workforce program of the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH) – and 91Թ (91Թ) have partnered with one of New England’s top steel construction firms, Capone Iron Corporation North Woods in Berlin, to create welder/fitter pathways for adults and youth. The Welder/Fitter Registered Apprenticeship and Pre-Apprenticeship programs use ApprenticeshipNH’s “earn while you learn” model to prepare the next generation of welders/fitters to enhance the regional infrastructure including its buildings and bridges.

“We are so happy to be partnering with Capone Iron Corporation North Woods as they are already committed to education through relationships with 91Թ and the area’s local high schools,” said Anne Banks, CCSNH Apprenticeship Programs Manager. “This program offers both adults and youth a well-supported pathway into an occupation that supports the regions infrastructure. This is a great opportunity for apprentices to receive paid tuition, develop new skills, earn a respectable wage and start a new career all while supporting workforce development with local talent.”

Offering Advanced Welding Technology and Pipeline Welding certificates, 91Թ is well positioned to provide the 467 hours of related instruction that is part of the three-year Welder/Fitter Registered Apprenticeship program. The program also includes 6,700 hours of on-the-job training at Capone Iron where apprentices will learn welding and cutting skills while working under the supervision of a mentor. This model of work alongside related education has proven to be a sound strategy for filling high-need jobs while enabling participants to build skills and advance in careers.

High school students, at least 17 years old, interested in exploring the profession can utilize the Pre-Apprenticeship pathway towards paid and unpaid internship opportunities that provide high school credit. Students who continue to the Registered Apprenticeship program can utilize paid internship hours toward on-the-job training.

“We are always looking for highly skilled employees to stay right here in the North Country and this partnership with ApprenticeshipNH and 91Թ is an important recruitment tool to help us build a pipeline of interested individuals to fill essential, growth-oriented positions,” said Lucie Kinney, compliance coordinator and safety liaison at Capone Iron Corporation. “We are committed to employee training and building this Registered Apprenticeship program brings us to an even higher standard.”

The Welder/Fitter program is open to incumbent employees in other occupations looking to upskill along with other youth and adult job seekers.

As a Registered Apprenticeship program with the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) Office of Apprenticeship, Capone Iron Corporate apprentices participate in an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway where employers can develop and prepare their future workforce, and individuals can obtain paid work experience, classroom instruction, and a portable, nationally-recognized credential. The program is supported by WorkNowNH and Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA).

was established in 2017 as a workforce initiative of the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH) and is funded by grants from the U.S. Department of Labor to assist employers building registered apprenticeships, pre-apprentice and high school programs in high-demand sectors including advanced manufacturing, automotive technology, biomedical technology, business and finance construction and infrastructure, healthcare, hospitality and information technology. ApprenticeshipNH assists companies with recruiting, screening and hiring potential apprentices, as well as accessing resources in the state that help to fund apprentice training and education. Visitfor more information.

]]> High School Valedictorian Awarded Scholarship /high-school-valedictorian-awarded-scholarship/ Mon, 24 Oct 2022 15:17:24 +0000 /?p=16873

Alexi Hastings Awarded Scholarship Covering First Year at 91Թ

Alexi Hastings knew she could save money by living at home and attending 91Թ (91Թ) for her undergraduate requirements. But as she considered her next steps after high school, she learned that as Valedictorian of her high school class, she was eligible for a full year scholarship through the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH).

“It was a really nice surprise,” said the Littleton High School senior. “The biggest benefit is that it will allow me to complete my freshmen year having incurred no debt.”

Alexi will leave 91Թ in two years with an associate degree, and as she embarks on her future pathway, she’ll do it with a year’s less debt.

Asked about her high school career, the class valedictorian says modestly that she “did well” at LHS. Alexi enjoyed art and math classes and played in the school band while clearly excelling academically.

Though her six older siblings attended a mix of community colleges and traditional four-year colleges, Alexi wasn’t sure which path she wanted to pursue. She hasn’t settled on a major and didn’t want to spend too much money on her undergraduate basics.

“I always figured I’d go to a four-year college. It was ‘what you did.’” She had her eye on Rivier University in Nashua, but in the end, close to home looked better. “I can always transfer the credits,” she said, “and living at home and going to college locally saves me a bundle.”

Alexi had already been considering 91Թ when LHS’s guidance department contacted her with the news of the valedictorian scholarship. She’s pleased with the money she’s saving. Through this scholarship, the college allows a tuition waiver of up to 32 credits to high school valedictorians who choose to enroll at one of the seven New Hampshire community colleges. At $215 per credit, she will save $6,880. Living at home will help her to save even more.

She has also taken advantage of the college meal plans, a benefit for a student on the run like Alexi. The Meals IncludED program provides breakfast and lunch daily and one dinner per week to all enrolled students – just another way she is saving money while attending school.

She works part-time at White Mountain Canning Company in Littleton and attends school at the Littleton campus, where her current major is Liberal Arts.

Alexi never thought she’d be learning alongside people from all walks of life, some older than her by decades. But that’s another benefit of attending 91Թ, according to her, as it broadens her horizons and enables her to understand people at all points of the learning cycle.

While Alexi admits to being shy, she muses, “One thing I’m excited about is that, in a few instances, I was able to start conversations with people I didn’t even know.”

She is pleased with the amount of support the college offers. “I have received consistent help from the library,” Alexi notes. “And my professors are very understanding with family situations.” Some of her classmates work full-time, have families at home or other complicated situations, and she finds that “everyone here is very nice, and is always willing to help.”

While the money-saving aspect is important to her, so is the small school and the feeling of community.

“It’s never not a good idea to take a small step instead of throwing yourself into a huge college in another state,” according to Alexi.

And she will continue to enjoy the give-and-take the smaller school offers. “One day, a few weeks ago, we had a writing assignment. I’m not bad at writing, but I prefer math. I was having trouble getting the words on paper.” Another student, whom Alexi had previously helped with a paper, pitched in and so did the professor.

“It’s an atmosphere,” Alexi says, “where you feel comfortable asking for help.”

To learn more about 91Թ, visit the college’s website at .

]]> 91Թ Named “2022 Great College to Work For” /white-mountains-community-college-named-2022-great-college-to-work-for/ Tue, 20 Sep 2022 12:41:24 +0000 /?p=16438

91Թ Named “2022 Great College to Work For”

Berlin, N.H. (September 19, 2022) – 91Թ (91Թ) has earned the status of being a Great College to Work For®. This acknowledgment comes from one of the largest and most respected workplace recognition programs in the country. The results were released in a special insert of The Chronicle of Higher Education based on a national survey of 212 colleges and universities. As the only community college in New England to be recognized, 91Թ was among 68 institutions nationally to achieve “Great College to Work For” acknowledgment for workplace best practices and policies. 91Թ was also cited in two categories: Mission and Pride and Compensation and Benefits.

“This is one of the most important recognitions a college can receive as a culmination of many internal and external efforts to support culture and service, and I am so proud that 91Թ is one of the top colleges in the nation to work for,” said Chuck Lloyd, 91Թ president. “We have a strong support system of faculty and staff to serve our students and provide them with opportunities for success while enriching lives and communities through quality education and valued partnerships. Thank you to everyone who helps make 91Թ a great place to work.”

ModernThink, a strategic human capital consulting firm, administered the survey and analyzed the results based on a two-part assessment process: a questionnaire that captured employment data and workplace policies from each institution along with a faculty, administrator and staff survey. Employee feedback was used as the primary factor in deciding whether an institution received recognition. For more information on this program, visit GreatCollegesProgram.com and GreatCollegesList.com.

91Թ (91Թ) is located in Berlin, New Hampshire with satellite campuses in Littleton and North Conway, and is one of seven colleges in the Community College System of New Hampshire. 91Թ offers Associate Degree and Certificate programs, plus training options, preparing students for 21st century job opportunities as well as transfer pathways to four-year colleges and universities. 91Թ is fully accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Courses within 91Թ and the Community College System are the most affordable in New Hampshire while the Littleton and North Conway Academic Centers increase access to all students in the North Country Region. Courses are available day, evening and online. 91Թ courses transfer to four-year colleges and universities in New Hampshire and across the country.

]]> Advanced Technology Building Expansion Donations Top $225,000 at 91Թ /advanced-technology-building-expansion-donations-top-225000-at-white-mountains-community-college/ Tue, 30 Aug 2022 19:20:59 +0000 /?p=16187

Advanced Technology Building Expansion Donations Top $225,000 at 91Թ

Littleton, N.H. (August 31, 2022) – Just weeks ahead of the September 14 groundbreaking for the (91Թ) Advanced Technology Building, Caterpillar Inc. has donated $25,000 in support of the project. This comes through the college’s decades-long partnership with Milton CAT, a local heavy equipment machine and engine distributor who pledged $200,000 in March, marking one of the largest donations in college history. Funds from Caterpillar Inc. and Milton CAT will support construction, equipment, infrastructure and program development for the Advanced Technology Building at the Littleton Academic Center. The expansion is designed to help the college meet current and future workforce needs in the North Country by growing high-demand programs, improving access, increasing regional recruitment and deepening community integration.

“We’re excited about continuing to build partnerships with the greater Littleton community and with their support, we are proud to be breaking ground for our new Advanced Technology Building which is being built with the everchanging needs of our local workforce in mind,” said Dr. Chuck Lloyd, 91Թ president. “The generous support from Milton CAT and Caterpillar Inc. has been instrumental in helping us get this project underway to train the next generation of technicians and mechanics.”

The Advanced Technology Building will include a new technology hub to grow 91Թ’s current programs including Diesel Heavy Equipment Technology, Industrial Mechanics and Welding while developing new training opportunities in electric vehicle technology and other emerging fields providing students with access to state-of-the-art technology and resources. Enhanced program offerings, facilities and equipment at the Littleton Academic Center will bring in-demand programs to a growing hub in the North Country while engaging with business and industry professionals locally. As part of the expansion project, a new 10,000 square foot advanced technology building will be constructed and is anticipated to be completed in May 2023.

91Թ’s Build Community Campaign is also underway, inviting individuals, companies, and organizations passionate about the future of the North Country to invest in the construction of the new Advanced Technology Building in Littleton. Donors’ names will be featured in the new building, honoring all who contributed to making progress possible.

“Investing in higher education improves our community and yields a threefold return through educational opportunities and economic impact,” added Lloyd.

To support the Build Community Campaign, .

(91Թ) is located in Berlin, New Hampshire with satellite campuses in Littleton and North Conway, and is one of seven colleges in the Community College System of New Hampshire. 91Թ offers , plus training options, preparing students for 21st-century job opportunities as well as transfer pathways to four-year colleges and universities. 91Թ is fully accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Our courses are the most affordable in New Hampshire and our Littleton Academic Center makes us accessible to all students in the North Country Region. Courses are available day, evening and online. 91Թ courses transfer to four-year colleges and universities in New Hampshire and across the country. The seven community colleges in the system are committed to working with businesses throughout the state to train and retain employees to develop a robust workforce across all sectors and embraces the “,” which calls for 65% of NH citizens to have some form of postsecondary education by 2025 to meet future workforce demands.

Photo caption: Caterpillar Inc. donates $25,000 to 91Թ’s Advanced Technology Building expansion project ahead of the September 14 groundbreaking. Left-to-right: Marc Pouliot, 91Թ Diesel Heavy Equipment Technology program professor, Chris Robichaud, Milton CAT recruiter, and Chuck Lloyd, 91Թ president. (Courtesy of 91Թ)

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