“I know how hard all of you have worked to arrive at tonight’s celebration -- in the classroom and lab, as student leaders, as interns, as community volunteers," said UNH Manchester Dean Mike Decelle at the college's 32nd annual commencement ceremony on Thursday, May 18. "You should know that what you’ve accomplished at UNH Manchester inspires all of us.”
University of New Hampshire President Mark Huddleston led the proceedings, which celebrated the achievements of 245 students. Held at the Radisson Hotel in downtown Manchester, the ceremony recognized 193 undergraduate and 52 graduate students who have earned an associate, bachelor's or master's degree at the University's Manchester campus.
"You bring a hunger for knowledge and seek out opportunities. And your desire to improve your lives, and the lives of your families and your communities, is sincere and unwavering," Huddleston said in his remarks. "I want to thank all of our graduates for inspiring me, as well, and for inspiring great pride in UNH."
Kelly Ayotte, former U.S. senator from New Hampshire, delivered the keynote address at Thursday’s ceremony. Ayotte shared her journey from lawyer to attorney general to senator, highlighting challenges she faced along the way. She encouraged graduates to stay determined through every setback they may face, whether professional or personal.
“You can’t be afraid to take risks,” Ayotte said. “It is the only way you can truly find out what you can really accomplish. Push the boundaries of your comfort zone to find the true potential within yourself.”
Amelia Keane, a biological sciences graduate and New Hampshire State Representative for Nashua Ward 4, delivered the student address. Keane talked about the communities that shaped her into who she is today—military, UNH Manchester and the ward she represents—and challenged her fellow graduates to be impactful members of their communities.
"Your success is not yours alone,” Keane said. “Your success, while driven by you, is made possible because of those around who help strengthen and guide you: your community.”
The program also included the presentation of the 2017 Granite State Award to Patrick Tufts, president and CEO of Granite United Way, and the Excellence in Teaching awards to Samantha Reynolds, lecturer of chemistry, and Carol Gay, adjunct instructor of communication arts.
Congratulations, Class of 2017!
