News - Manchester Community College, NH

MCC Grad Named One of Union Leader's 40 Under Forty

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:37:00 +0000

Manchester Community College 2006 graduate Jonathan Lanteigne is one of the "40 Under Forty" of New Hampshire's young people who make a difference. Below is the article from the Union Leader January 30th edition.

Jonathan Lanteigne helps others who have faced battles he knows well

By Kathy Remillard, Union Leader Correspondent

Twenty-six-year-old Jonathan Lanteigne has turned what some would consider a devastating situation into a personal mission to help others.

Lanteigne suffered brain damage after a childhood virus and has spent much of his life helping others with brain injuries get the help and services they need.

Despite his brain injury, Lanteigne graduated from high school and went on to earn his bachelor of science in computer information systems through UNH Manchester.

He's been employed for the past nine years as an Easy Tech at Staples in Bedford.

But perhaps Lanteigne's most important contribution is his work for the Brain Injury Association of New Hampshire.

Lanteigne has had an advice column in the organization's newsletter since 2002.

"Ask Jon" is read by many and helps those with brain injuries secure benefits, education and accommodations, and gives practical advice on what it means to be a brain injury survivor.

Lanteigne was recently nominated to sit on the BIANH board.

As someone who shares the same experience as those he helps, Lanteigne is able to understand the challenges those with a brain injury have to face.

For many, a brain injury doesn't have any outward signs.

"That can be troublesome at times," Lanteigne said.

Because Lanteigne suffers from short-term memory loss as a result of his injury, he keeps a "reminder binder" of sorts at work with him that assists him with his job duties.

He successfully fought to keep it when a new manager at Staples questioned it, but it's just one of the challenges Lanteigne regularly faces.

Still, Lanteigne remains steadfast in his goal of helping others.

"You have to make use of services that are available," Lanteigne said. "You have to accept your brain injury and find out ways you can help others."

Carl Lanteigne, Jon's father, said it's been a long road for his son, but that he has been willing to share both his successes and failures with everyone he meets. "It's a matter of knowing what tools you need to succeed, and not be afraid to use them," he said.

Out with the old, in with the New, Simple, Fast!

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 23:51:00 +0000

On Monday December 9th, the MCC Marketing and Communications team announced an exciting new venture for Manchester Community College's web presence... a new, shorter, simpler, and faster domain name! Over the next few months, MCC's old domain (www.manchestercommunitycollege.edu) will be phased out and MCC's new domain name (www.mccnh.edu) will be used.

If you have any questions, concerns, or general comments about the new domain name and/or the changes involved, feel free to email the MCC Webmaster directly or use the Feedback button on the top left corner of your browser window.

This page will be updated frequently as changes to the MCC family of websites are completed.

Update December 10th 2011:

The MCC Online Photo Galleries and 65th Celebration websites are now available via the new domain name:
http://photos.mccnh.edu
http://65th.mccnh.edu

Update December 13th 2011:

The MCC Alumni website is now available via the new domain name:
http://alumni.mccnh.edu

Update December 19th 2011:

The main MCC website is now available via the new domain name:
http://www.mccnh.edu

Anyone who has bookmarked the MCC website (or a specific section of the site) is encouraged to update your bookmark URLs. If, for example, you have a bookmark for http://www.manchestercommunitycollege.edu/student-life/clubs, the Student Life Clubs & Organizations page will now be accessed at http://www.mccnh.edu/student-life/clubs

Update January 4th 2012:

The Student Information System (SIS) is now available via the new domain name:
https://sis.mccnh.edu

Deadline Extended for Nursing Program Applications

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 13:28:08 +0000

The deadline for applying to the Nursing Program at MCC has been extended to February 1, 2012. Students seeking admission into the Nursing Program must have all documents postmarked no later than February 1, 2012 to be eligible for admission into the Fall 2012 Nursing program. There is no early action or early decision deadline. "Many applicants voiced their concern that transcripts from courses taken at other institutions may not be available for submission by the original deadline of January 1," said Jacqueline Poirier, the MCC admissions counselor who works most closely with nursing applicants. "Acceptance into the Nursing Program is so competitive that we want to be sure that everyone has an opportunity to put their best foot forward."

Interested in the MCC Nursing Program? Get started by attending a Nursing Information Session.

Veterans Gather at College with the Same Goal: To Find Employment

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 01:49:56 +0000

MANCHESTER— Steve Hanson stood out among the many veterans looking for work at the Veterans and Military Service Member Job Fair at Manchester Community College Thursday.

Hanson looked comfortable in his dark suit, white shirt and conservative tie, and he had neatly trimmed hair and an air of confidence as he wandered strategically along the aisles of the job fair.

Hanson, who lives in Nashua, spent 21 years in the U.S. Navy in the submarine force and then joined the work force.

Thursday, he was looking for a senior position as a program or business development manager, similar to a position he held for 4-1/2 years in Merrimack before his job was eliminated and he was laid off Aug. 9.

“I’ve got two or three leads for jobs,” Hanson said as he went from table to table looking for a company that might offer a good fit. “This is a much better show than a couple of the private ones I went to in Boston.”

Hanson and others filled the cafeteria of the college where 40 companies from high tech to insurance, state and federal agencies, police and other emergency responders, and colleges gathered. Some of the veterans wore suits, but many more dressed casually, which was helpful in a building whose air conditioning was knocked out during the October snowstorm.

U.S. Rep. Frank Guinta sponsored the fair and said the event was “the least we can do for our returning vets who preserve our freedom and liberties.”

He said the fair was a “wonderful opportunity for veterans and their families to find a job.” And Guinta praised the 40 participants who signed up “almost immediately” saying they were ready to hire.

Traveling the state, he said, he still hears from many who are unemployed or underemployed.

“Hopefully people will leave here today with job opportunities in their hands,” Guinta said.

Brian Gordan of Chester served in the Army National Guard public relations unit. Before he was deployed to the Middle East, he was offered his old job back after he had been laid off and hired as a part-time contractor. The job was no longer there when he returned, and he has been unemployed since his deployment ended.

“I’m a manufacturing guy,” Gordan said Thursday, but he was also exploring courses at New England College to improve his writing skills. “I’ve got some really good leads for some manufacturing jobs,” he said.

Gordan hadn’t yet talked to the representatives at EFI, a company that manufactures large format printers, with a facility in Meredith.

“We have 300 employees,” said Wendy Lague, talent acquisition manager. “We’ve got jobs.”

Several veterans were at the fair to explore educational opportunities.

Delina Bickford of Wolfeboro served in the Navy for three years and is currently a freshman nursing student at Manchester Community College. She wants to continue her education and receive a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She was talking to several college representatives exploring her options.

Another Manchester Community College student, Ryan Ladd of Manchester, explored his options for a law enforcement position.

Ladd spent four years in the Army and wants to “move forward and better myself.”

Noah Fallon of Allenstown, a business administration and small business management student at Southern New Hampshire University, had a couple of leads. He was talking to representatives from Turbocam International, a Barrington-based manufacturing company.

“Everybody here is very military friendly and that is nice,” said Fallon, a former Marine.

However, Jerry Pageau of Merrimack, a Vietnam veteran and sometime consultant, found the job fair frustrating because some of the companies were offering jobs out-of-state but not in New Hampshire.

“So many vets are going to be coming here, but there aren’t 150 manufacturing jobs here,” he said. “It’s very frustrating. There are 25 million out of work.”

Pageau moved to New Hampshire form Florida where he worked as a ground penetrating radar expert, training he received in the Navy and through the GI bill, but has been unable to find steady work in the Northeast.

His brother-in-law, Gary Gahan of Merrimack, had a different experience at the fair. Gahan is semi-retired and looking for something different to do to be productive.

“There are IT jobs here that are way over my head,” said the former Marine who served in Vietnam. “I’m lucky if I can turn on my iPhone and iPad and make them work.”

But he noted there were some very interesting positions being offered at the fair, “depending on your skill set.”

MCC Delivers "Wish List" Items to MST Students

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 14:20:06 +0000

At a recent Advisory Board meeting for the Manchester School of Technology's Advanced Manufacturing program, Manchester Community College's Vice President for Students Kim Keegan suggested that MST post a "wish list" of items at every school function. The list included 50 4GB USB drives for the students in Dan Cassidy’s Advanced Manufacturing classes. "Dan's students didn't have an affordable way to store their computer-generated work and make a portable portfolio to show potential employers," says MCC's Keegan.

Now they do. Keegan worked with MCC's Director of IT Naim Syed and the college has now provided 50 credit-card sized USB drives that include the logos from both MST and MCC.

Hassan Announces Campaign for Governor at MCC

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 17:28:23 +0000

Former state Senator Maggie Hassan announced at MCC October 25 that she is a candidate for governor. Thanking MCC "for the incredibly important work everyone here does," she defined the college as "the place where individuals can chart a new course for themselves and where hard work and commitment pays off. It highlights what is best about our state."

Continue reading about Hassan's announcement »

MCC to Host College Transfer Fair

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 17:26:00 +0000

Thinking about transferring your MCC credits to a four-year college?

Want to learn more about your transferring options?

Then attend the College Transfer Fair on Tuesday, November, 15th from 10am to 1:30pm in the MCC Cafeteria.

For more information contact Meg Hamm at (603) 206-8171 or at mhamm@ccsnh.edu.

Colleges will include: *

American College of History and Legal Studies
American International College
Assumption College
Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology
Bryant University
Champlain College
Chester College
College of St. Joseph of Vermont
Curry College
Eastern Nazarene College
Endicott College
Granite State College
Johnson State College

Keene State College
New England College
Paul Smith’s College
Rivier College
Simmons College
SNHU
Springfield College
Western New England University
Westfield State College
University of New England
UNH
UNH/Manchester
Union Institute

* Colleges are subject to change

Congressman Guinta to Host a Veterans' Job Fair to Help Military Families

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 16:06:18 +0000

Congressman Frank Guinta is hosting a Veterans’ Job Fair on Thursday, November 10th to help military families understand the benefits and opportunities available to them. Guinta strongly believes that caring for those who served in the military is one of our nation’s highest priorities. He diligently works to ensure that our former and returning service members receive the benefits they have earned. He is continuing the fight for a much-needed full service VA medical facility in our area and will continue the work to reduceveteran homelessness within our district.

If you know a veteran or service member that will benefit from this event, please encourage them to attend.

When: Thursday, Nov. 10th
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Where: Manchester Community College
1066 Front Street, Manchester, New Hampshire
Get directions to MCC

For additional information please contact Congressman Guinta's Manchester office at (603) 641-9536.

Class Sharpens Skills for the Unemployed

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 11:56:56 +0000

The group includes a nursing assistant who speaks seven languages and dialects, a pediatrician from China, and a man with decades of experience in advanced manufacturing.

What do they all have in common? They’ve all hit a brick wall in this economy and have been unemployed for months on end.

“The fact we’re here shows we haven’t given up,” said Marvin Ellison, who has worked in both the computer repair and culinary industries.

In a conference room lined with computers at Manchester Community College. Ellison and his fellow students are part of the inaugural class of WorkReadyNH, a new state program being run out of four community colleges that aims to improve the job-seekers’ core competencies and professional acumen. The program grew out of discussions Gov. John Lynch had with employers around the state and is based on a national worker certification program.

Lynch himself paid the students a visit last Tuesday to get their feedback.

WorkReadyNH is one of several new initiatives at MCC, as the college, long known for its emphasis on technical training, attempts to position itself on the frontline of a struggling economy and the effort to get people back to work. Central to the strategy is working closely with employers to identify and develop the skills and qualities they’re looking for in new hires.

The college is joining the New Hampshire Regional Advanced Manufacturing Partnership Consortium, a $20 million federally funded program taking place at several community colleges. For its program, MCC will partner with local manufacturers to develop new courses of study in automation and robotics, advanced materials technologies and composites, and other areas of advanced manufacturing.

The college also recently won a $5 million federal grant to provide training and job placement assistance in the health care and health information technology fields. It will be joining with Elliot Health Systems and several other hospitals in the effort.

But for all the emphasis on high-tech skills, it’s important to remember the basics, and that is one of the core goals of WorkReadyNH.

“There are things that ... if we don’t use them every day ... we forget them,” said Steven Cerasuolo, a truck driver and forklift operator. “I’m re-remembering my high school math skills.”

For others, the more important components of the program concern so-called soft skills, face-to-face communication and some of the nuances of workplace conduct.

That’s what Kun Lilian Han, an immigrant from China, where she worked as a pediatrician and in pharmaceutical sales, is focusing on. Having aced her math and English assessment tests, Han said, “I want to work on how to work with Americans and how to talk with them.”

Han wants to continue working in the medical industry, although she’s accepted that she may have to start at a lower tier in the U.S. She wants to work in medical billing and coding.

Others in the group conceded that they were forced into learning — or relearning — some basic skills. Larger economic forces forced them back into the job market.

“I was a machine tool cutter and grinder. That’s a dying trade,” said Rick Talbot, a machine operator. “I had to look outside the box. I got so locked into forcing my own will to make things happen. I needed the perspective of another individual.”

He wants to work in Computer Numerical Control machining.

The program may also have the unanticipated benefit of providing moral support. All of the students can tell stories of sending out numerous applications and getting no response or getting a cold reception when employers realize they’re older applicants who range in age from 43 to 56.

“There’s a level of supportiveness that goes on here,” Talbot said. “As long as that support is there, the only one you can blame is yourself for not applying yourself.”

Governor Lynch Speaks with Workers Enrolled in WorkReady NH Program

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 19:37:42 +0000

MANCHESTER – Governor John Lynch today went to Manchester Community College where he met with several New Hampshire workers enrolled in the WorkReady NH program, a new job skills training program administered through the Community College System. WorkReady NH is the third and final component of New Hampshire Working, Governor Lynch's innovative jobs initiative.

Governor Lynch saw firsthand how WorkReady NH is addressing gaps in worker readiness in the areas of math, reading and problem solving. It is also addressing so-called "soft skills" such as workplace behaviors, teamwork and communications.

"The stories I heard today were quite compelling. These people were eager to get back in the workplace and WorkReady is helping them by highlighting their strengths and identifying which areas they need to improve upon," Governor Lynch said. "By earning certification through WorkReady these workers will able to demonstrate to potential employers they have the skills needed in the workplace."

The program was developed after hearing directly from business leaders through Governor Lynch's series of Jobs Cabinet Roundtables held across the state.

"As Governor, my number one focus continues to be jobs and the economy. Our unemployment rate is one of the lowest in the nation, but I will not rest until everyone who wants a job in New Hampshire can get a job," Governor Lynch said.

Unemployed workers who choose to participate in WorkReady will take a test assessing their skills, and there is available remedial training in basic areas where necessary. Upon completion of the program, workers will receive a nationally recognized certification, which they can take to potential employers, giving business owners confidence that new hires will have the necessary skills they are looking for.

WorkReady NH is being offered at four pilot sites including River Valley, White Mountain, Great Bay and Manchester community colleges. WorkReady is the final component of New Hampshire Working, a three-part initiative introduced by Governor Lynch last year. It is designed to help companies and workers avoid layoffs, help unemployed workers return to work and, the third and final part, provide training to help workers get new jobs. Under the first part of New Hampshire Working, the state is able to partner with businesses and workers to provide an alternative to layoffs. Companies and workers agree to reduced hours instead of layoffs, and the state makes up part of the lost wages for workers through unemployment benefits.

Workers will keep their jobs, their health insurance and most of their income. Companies will be able to retain the skilled workers they need to recover, and taxpayers will avoid increased costs as the demand for state services increases as unemployment rises. This part of New Hampshire Working is modeled after successful job-share programs in other states.

The second part of New Hampshire Working reduces upfront training costs for companies - often an impediment to hiring - and is providing on-the-job training to help workers get new jobs. Unemployed workers are able to continue to receive unemployment benefits while participating in up to six weeks of training at a potential new employer. A company has until the end of that period to decide if a worker has the skills the business needs.

MCC Students Inducted into Honor Society

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 19:33:53 +0000

Fifty-four students have qualified for and accepted membership into the Phi Theta Kappa honor society at Manchester Community College, chapter Alpha Pi Rho. Since 1929, PTK has been recognized by the American Association of Community Colleges as the official honor society of two-year colleges. An induction ceremony was held September 16th at the college.

To qualify for membership, a student must have a grade point average of at least 3.5 and exemplify the qualities of scholarship, leadership, service and fellowship. The September 16th event recognized students who qualified from the Spring and Summer 2011 semesters.

New PTK members include:

From Alstead: Michael A. Hakey

From Barrington: Seth E. Sturtevant

From Bedford: Meghan C. Marceau and Rozanne D. Sylvain

From Candia: Lisa J. Migneault

From Center Barnstead: Linda J. Michaud

From Chester: Joseph W. Leonard

From Claremont: Philip J. Crowley

From Concord: Gina M. Anzabne

From Derry: Yolaine R. Beaulieu; Joanne C. DeLos Reyes; Jason A. Dyer; Amy T. Hollingworth; Debra A. Jesionowski; Brian C. Lirette; Daniel C. Myers; Caryn A. Smith and Patricia G. Verrengia

From Exeter: Micah R. Bolduc

From Goffstown: Kate E. Brassard; David M. Matteucci; Christine W. Neville

From Hooksett: Heather T. Day; Molly J. Pelletier

From Litchfield: Amanda L. Ceccherini

From Londonderry: Eric J. Tamburino

From Manchester: Lorraine Barros; Melanie A. Belleau; Bryan Bentley; Sejo Bezinovic; Zbigniew Bujno; Courtney A. Castro; Kimberlee Coombes; Ernst Maurice Cote; Jennifer Hirschmann; Hillary T. Jones; Christine T. Little; Marcia A. McGrath; Glen J. McCluskey; Nathalia McGee; Kristine I. Silva; Michelle R. Simoneau; Moussa A. Siri; Christine A. Stiasny; Lee A. Williams

From Merrimack: Heather N. Biron

From Nashua: Elizabeth M. Blondeau; Dale A. Gorman and Caytlin E. Lalley

From New Boston: Michelle C. Miller

From Raymond: Chris S. Ferris; Nicole B. Parker and Neil G. Rowland

From Salem: Elizabeth A. Zarnay

CCSNH Receives $19.9 million to Train Manufacturing Workforce

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 20:32:17 +0000

The Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH) has been awarded $19.9 million, the largest grant in the System's history, to develop training programs that will support NH's advanced manufacturing industry. The funds will enable the state’s seven community colleges, located in every region of New Hampshire, to develop programs that prepare individuals for skilled employment to meet current and emerging workforce needs in advanced manufacturing in New Hampshire. The programs will focus on displaced workers and other job-seekers by providing training opportunities at multiple professional levels in skills linked to regional employment.

The CCSNH grant proposal was titled the Regional Advanced Manufacturing Partnership: Elevating NH's Workforce to Meet the High-Tech Skill Demands Of NH's Rapidly Advancing Manufacturing Sector, or "Ramp-Up." "This program is all about bringing high-quality jobs to New Hampshire, ensuring that we have the workforce to fill those jobs, enable business located here to grow, attract new companies, and increase economic activity," said J. Bonnie Newman, Chancellor of the Community College System.

"Manufacturing is a critical driver of economic growth and employment in our state," said U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen. "However, as businesses replace traditional manufacturing methods with advanced technology, many job-seekers have been unable to keep up because they lack the specialized skills required. By arming workers with the tools needed to excel in advanced manufacturing, this award will help New Hampshire workers secure high-paying jobs and help New Hampshire companies hire high-quality employees."

"With manufacturing as such an important part of New Hampshire's economy, a key part of our successful economic strategy has been training our workers in advanced skills so they can keep up with changing technology, and our businesses can continue to compete globally. This grant is exciting news for our state, our workers and our businesses. This is a tremendous amount of funding that will allow us to expand our worker training efforts, which will help more companies grow and compete," Gov. Lynch said. "This is great news for New Hampshire's economy."

CCSNH's efforts will target advanced manufacturing sub-sectors including automation and robotics, precision manufacturing, advanced machine tool technology, mechatronics, advanced materials technologies and composites, precision welding, automation and process control, and energy systems for precision manufacturing.

"This funding comes at a very important time, since students and the college population in New Hampshire have been disadvantaged by state budget cuts and decreased access to education and training opportunities," said Newman. "While this grant will not replace state funds that were cut, it will make possible focused efforts in partnership with NH businesses to create educational and career ladders for advanced manufacturing jobs, a key industry here in New Hampshire and in the nation."

"New Hampshire's community colleges are uniquely situated to provide these opportunities and work in partnership with employers," Newman said. "We have campuses in every region of the state. NH companies already look to the community colleges to train a local workforce in high-need skills like health care and technology. The community colleges are adept at providing access to students of all ages, backgrounds, and aspirations, and we have already developed strong partnerships that enable students to continue their education to the baccalaureate level and beyond."

The CCSNH proposal was developed in close collaboration with over a dozen NH manufacturing companies from across the state. The industry partners provided data on current and future workforce needs, skills gaps of the current workforce and job applicant pool, industry trends, and specific equipment and types of training key to their ability to thrive and compete globally. Other partners in the application included the Business and Industry Association of New Hampshire, the NH High-Tech Council, the Advanced Manufacturing Education Advisory Council, the NH Department of Resources and Economic Development, the NH Department of Labor, the NH Department of Employment Security, and the NH Department of Education.

Jim Roche, president of the Business and Industry Association of NH, said, "If we expect to retain and grow companies in New Hampshire's leading economic sector – advanced manufacturing – we need to ensure alignment between training provided through our educational institutions and the needs of manufacturers and high technology employers. This grant represents a great opportunity to further that goal."

George Bald, Commissioner of the NH Department of Resources and Economic Development, said, "This grant will have a tremendous impact on the NH workforce, on the quality of jobs that come to the state, and on the strength of the manufacturing industry in New Hampshire. The close collaboration between the community colleges and our NH employers to identify skill areas and training needs reflects the excellent working relationship that exists in New Hampshire to strengthen our workforce."

CCSNH applied for the grant through the US Department of Labor's Trade Adjustment Act-Community College Career and Training Grant program.

MCC Names New Child Development Center Director

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 14:50:43 +0000

Deborah A. Booker of Weare has been named director of the new Child Development Center at Manchester Community College (MCC). The Center functions as the lab school for the college's Early Childhood Education (ECE) program, and offers morning and afternoon preschool programs as well as full-time, part-time and drop-in child care services.

Booker is a graduate of MCC's Early Childhood Education program, and then continued her education to earn her bachelor’s degree in child development from Southern New Hampshire University, and her master’s in education from Walden University.

An experienced child development educator, Booker has almost 15 years of experience as a lead teacher and/or center director at two Children's World Learning Centers in Manchester and in Merrimack. Currently an adjunct ECE instructor at MCC, she is also an active member of the Early Childhood Education accrediting agency, the National Association for the Education of Young Children, and has served as an Accreditation Advisor to guide child development centers in New Hampshire and Massachusetts through the accreditation/reaccreditation process.

Booker is a licensed foster parent, and, in 2009, earned her State of NH Teacher/Mentor credentials. She lives in Weare with her husband and three children.

For information about MCC’s Child Development Center, call Booker at 206-8098, or email her at dbooker@ccsnh.edu.

MCC Increases Energy Efficiency

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 14:06:15 +0000

Manchester Community College will save more than $7,500 a year on its energy costs beginning this fall, thanks to the installation of improved temperature controls and energy-efficient lighting throughout the campus. The new technology allows MCC's energy use to be more tightly controlled, with energy used only when and where specifically needed.

"These projects have given MCC the tools to stretch our energy dollars through better climate control of our classrooms and offices," says MCC President Susan Huard. "Some areas of our buildings lacked adequate heating and cooling controls, leaving us little control over energy costs. Now we can adjust temperatures as needed, our energy costs are lower, and our students, faculty and staff are comfortable and able to concentrate on their learning, teaching, and working."

On the lighting side, "many of our lights were old and expensive to operate and maintain. We've now upgraded to modern, brighter, energy-efficient lights that will yield additional savings," Huard concluded.

In addition to saving money, this project reduces MCC's energy footprint by over 50,000 kilowatt hours per year. LightTec Inc. of Merrimack and Control Technologies Inc. of Manchester completed the improvements over the summer.

The Community College System of NH (CCSNH) was awarded a $1.3 million grant through the State Energy Program under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act from the U.S. Department of Energy, through the NH Office of Energy and Planning. Each CCSNH college received a portion of the funding to address energy usage and reduce long-term energy costs through targeted facilities and systems upgrades.

These cost reductions come at a time when many public entities are feeling the pinch of recent budget cuts, including a 20% cut to state funding for the state's community colleges. These infrastructure improvements will reduce operating costs, and support the colleges’ efforts to keep down the costs to their students.

The State Energy Program, funded by the Recovery Act, is a major investment in energy solutions that will strengthen America's economy, create jobs locally, and support the immediate use of the cheapest, cleanest, and most reliable energy technologies we have—energy efficiency, conservation, and renewable energy.

Community College Students Receive $15,000 in Scholarships

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 13:14:00 +0000

The Community Colleges of New Hampshire Foundation recently awarded Agnes Lindsay Trust $1,000 Scholarships to 15 students, including two from Manchester Community College. The Agnes M. Lindsay Trust scholarships are awarded to deserving students who are residents of Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire or Vermont and are attending one of the seven Community College System of New Hampshire colleges.

The 2011 recipients are:

From Manchester Community College:
Delina Bickford – nursing, Wolfeboro
Cathalina Lugumira – nursing, New London

From Great Bay Community College in Portsmouth:
Anna Bennett – nursing, Somersworth
Cortney Taylor - nursing, Madbury

From Lakes Region Community College in Laconia:
Melilssa Aube-French – medical office assisting, Gilford
Maria Ellsworth – nursing, Belmont
Rhonda Gagnon – nursing, Center Barnstead

From NHTI, Concord's Community College:
Matthew Abraham – information technology, New London
Danielle Chasse – general studies, Wilton
Mary DeStefano – human services, Fremont

From River Valley Community College in Claremont:
Brooke Lang – occupational therapy, Grande Isle, VT
Rebecca Napsey – chemistry, Claremont
Melissa Stockton – nursing, Langdon

From White Mountains Community College in Berlin:
Michelle Crawford – environmental business, Whitefield
Sarah Hoffman – human services, Colebrook

Newman: Job Creation is in the Classroom

Sat, 03 Sep 2011 13:17:00 +0000

On the same day that federal officials announced disappointing job creation numbers, the new chancellor of the Community College System of New Hampshire said job creation really begins in the classrooms of places like Manchester Community College.

"I see community colleges as the gateway to higher education for so many people at all levels," said interim chancellor J. Bonnie Newman. "Given the fluctuation in the economy at the state and national levels, the required job skills and training change so quickly."

Newman assumed her new duties two weeks ago and since that time has traveled to five of the system's seven campuses to visit with students, faculty and administrators. On Friday she visited Manchester Community College and will visit the two remaining campuses next week.

"The tone and culture is a little bit different on each campus," Newman said, but "the faculties' concern about their students is consistent. There's real commitment to their mission."

Newman is not new to higher education in New Hampshire. Like her longtime friend, former Gov. Walter Peterson, she served as interim president of the University of New Hampshire as well as holding the community college system's chancellor's post. Newman also served as interim dean of the Whittemore School of Business and dean of students at UNH as well.

She served in both the Reagan and George H.W. Bush administrations and as Judd Gregg's chief of staff when he served in the U.S. House.

Newman also has strong ties to the business community in New Hampshire, both as a business owner and executive and as past president of the Business and Industry Association.

Newman said the first call she made as chancellor was to Department of Resources and Economic Development Commissioner George Bald, asking him how they could work together and to make sure the state's economic development agents are up-to-date on the community colleges.

"This does not happen in isolation or in an ivory tower setting," said Newman. "This is the real world, this is an opportunity to problem solve and help create the next economy."

She sees the community college system as a vital link and wants to work closely with the system's business partners and be responsive to their needs.

"The need for a skilled, well-trained workforce has never been more vital than right now," Newman said. "Your ability to compete in the global marketplace is truly dependent on the community college system to provide those skill sets."

She used the production of Concord Coaches as an example. "Years ago we made Concord Coaches in Concord. They were really good, they were the best, but you do not train people today for coach manufacturing."

She worries higher education has become so expensive that some students may be shut out financially. Tuition of $5,000 or $6,000 a year may not look like much compared to some private colleges that charge $55,000, she notes, but "if you're unemployed or a single parent who struggles to keep up with the mortgage payment that is ballooning, every $100, every dollar makes a difference."

The two-year budget passed by lawmakers in June made significant reductions in state funding to both the university and community college systems, which in turn raised tuition.

Newman said she does not envy lawmakers who have to make some very difficult decisions, but encourages them not to risk fundamental programs essential to the state's future.

"Some people may shrug, but the person wheeled into an emergency room on a gurney is counting on the nurse who is there to be well trained, and that's what we do," She said.

Newman said a civil society depends on a well informed and educated citizenry to survive. She said the country's founders like Thomas Jefferson and John Adams understood for the country to thrive and prosper, it needed to educate its people.

"Education at all levels is a public responsibility, it's a public good. I recognize there are those who believe it should be a private responsibility, but for a large portion of our fellow New Hampshire citizens, there is no other option but to access a quality public education," Newman said.

There are consequences to lawmakers' decisions, she said, and they need to be aware of what they are. But, she noted, public higher education officials have to develop new models moving forward. "In terms of the state's participation, we're going to have to be more creative and work with the business community," Newman said.

She said she recently met with several lawmakers to explore tax credits for businesses willing to fund scholarships and programs at the community colleges.

Newman noted that 85 percent of the community colleges' students are from New Hampshire.

Manchester Community College President Susan D. Huard noted those are students who are working and staying in New Hampshire. "They're not educated here to take their education somewhere else," she said.

And Huard noted community colleges have the richest classrooms that range in age from teenagers to senior citizens. The diversity provides both theory and real world experience, she said.

Newman said she believes the community colleges are the state's best-kept secrets. "My job and Susan's job is to get the message out," she said.

MCC Opens New Child Care Center

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 12:49:45 +0000

Manchester Community College has opened a new Child Development Center for preschoolers through kindergarten age, and will be ready to accept children on August 29th.

Run as a Lab School for MCC’s Early Childhood Education (ECE) program students, the new center offers:

Part-time, full-time and drop-in options
Fully-degreed ECE teachers
Developmentally-appropriate and individualized programming
Low ratios
Supervised student interns

The Center is open from 7:45am to 5:30pm, Monday through Friday. A mixed age part-time morning program runs from 9am until Noon; the part-time afternoon program runs from 2 until 5pm.

The Center is licensed by the State of NH Childcare Licensing Bureau and complies with all regulations and requirements.

Information on registration requirements and other programming is available from:

Deborah Booker
Child Development Center Director
(603) 206-8098
dbooker@ccsnh.edu

MCC Students Take Their Lessons to Africa

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 13:08:00 +0000

Eight Manchester Community College students and an alumnus are on a mission: They're teaching children at a Christian school in the southwestern African nation of Namibia for two weeks.

The group is being led by the school's Americorps/community service coordinator, Anna Gdanian, an alumnus, who went on a teaching mission to the Talitha Kumi Christian Academy in Arandis last year. The group of eight women and one man are combining their love of education and religion as they work with primary schoolchildren, many of whom are foster children whose parents have died or abused them.

But the photos and words the volunteers have posted on their blog, including camel rides and dance moves, show it's far from nose-to-the-grindstone work.

Gdanian's enthusiasm prompted members of Team Namibia to gather school supplies and planning lessons and to raise a money for the two-week plus trip that began Aug. 1. Travel and lodging arrangements for the team were made through Christ's Church of Amherst, which has a long-standing mission program in Namibia to care for orphans and vulnerable children in several locations.

Pastor Darin Shaw said the church has sent teams to Namibia almost every year for the past 10 years.

"I was going to send a team this year," said Shaw, so it was logical that the church would make the travel arrangements for Team Namibia.

As it turned out, he said, his church didn't send a team, but the MCC team is working under the leadership of Michael Knight, the youth pastor from Christ's Church, who is also a seminary student in Charlotte, N.C.

Talitha Kumi is operated by Hope's Promise Orphan Ministries, based in DeLand, Fla., but is supported by a number of church partners elsewhere in the United States.

Shaw said it costs $3,140 for each person on a mission team, money team members raise from various sources.

While some might argue that sending that amount of cash would be a better idea than sending people, Shaw disagrees.

He said most people here don't understand the impact HIV/AIDS has in other countries. Here it's a manageable disease. In a place like Namibia, he said: "It becomes a very quick death sentence."

Many people die of diseases their devastated immune systems can't fight, he said, so they aren't always counted as AIDS deaths. Because of the high incidence of HIV/AIDS, there are many children without parents in Namibia.

As a consequence, the people on missions offer individual attention that is irreplaceable, he said.

When they take a child on their lap, or talk face to face, or take a child by the hand, said Shaw: "They are reminding them that they are important."

The one-to-one contact from someone who has come from far away is a way to show the children they are valued, to bolster their self-image and to inspire them to keep learning. While sending money is good, the personal interaction is critical.

"It's being there," said Shaw, that can change the future for a child.

On the group's blog, team member Patty Lovejoy wrote: "We immediately knew that this was going to be a challenge, however rewarding. The children are sweet, loving, instantly accepting, but very typically rambunctious kids. We were soon overwhelmed by them, and their questions."

There was no hesitation on the part of the children when it came to those questions, like that posed to Chrissy Neville. “Miss Chrissy, what are those on your arm?” was the question about her freckles.

Andrew Tripp, a substitute teacher who last year was a full-time substitute teacher of Bible and history in a private middle school, is working toward a certification in education and one day wants to get a master's degree in education. Tripp wrote of the joy in discovering Namibian culture.

"You are always met with a hearty hello and within a few sentences exchanged you have made a new friend. Smiles are always seen, laughter is often heard, and playful joking with students makes the day go by quicker," Tripp wrote.

Gdanian wrote: "The down time here in Arandis is very important because we are able to spend time with the children and really get to know the culture of Namibia." While Talitha Kumi is a private school, Shaw said his mission teams also work in the public schools, trying to educate children about the dangers of casual sexual contact that can result in HIV/ AIDS, and encouraging them to continue their education.

"You're trying to convince them... You're hoping to change a life," said Shaw.

Not all the changes are in the children.

As Tripp blogged: "The real joy for me has been the relationships we've been able to foster with the amazing students of Talitha Kumi Christian Academy."

Gdanian, Tripp, Lovejoy, Neville and the rest of Team Namibia — Jenny Ortiz, Jenn Hewitt, Sarah Owens, Sonya Hale and Monica Mena — are scheduled to leave for home on Wednesday.

View the team's blog and photos at http://blogs.manchestercommunitycollege.edu/namibia.

Girls Learn Skills, Confidence at Camp

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 12:53:21 +0000

Standing on a milk crate for a boost, 10-year-old Maggie Pare put both hands on the standing compound miter saw. With the assistance of Elaine Hamel, Maggie, wearing a blue hard hat and safety goggles, cut halfway through the piece of wood at a 30-degree angle, then finished the job, cutting all the way through.

Maggie was the first of the Nashua elementary and middle school girls in the building trades lab at Manchester Community College to use the saw Wednesday. The other girls watched quietly and gave Maggie a round of applause when she finished.

"How was it, Mags?" Angela Barker, a councilor at Girls Inc., asked.

"Easy," replied Maggie, a fifth-grade student at Dr. Crisp Elementary School.

The piece of wood that Maggie was cutting eventually would become part of the picnic tables the girls were building this week, part of the Girls in Construction program. Forty girls from the Girls Inc. programs in Nashua and Manchester are taking part.

The goal is to get more middle school-age girls involved in trades programs.

There is going to be a need for more females in construction jobs, as the field is facing a large number of retirements in the coming years, said Hamel, director of Girls at Work, one of the program sponsors.

Even if they don't pursue careers in the field, Hamel said, the self-confidence from learning how to use tools and build on their own will benefit them.

Feedback from Manchester girls there earlier in the week was eye-opening, Hamel said. One girl wrote in a survey that she liked learning how to use a saw because she didn't feel stupid any more.

That kind of self-confidence can carry over across a lifetime, Hamel said.

"We're building them up through building," she said. "These girls are rock stars."

Hamel has been working as a contractor for 25 years. She currently works in residential renovations. More than 5,000 girls have gone through similar programs run by Girls at Work, but this is the first geared toward girls in middle school or about to enter middle school.

"We want to get to them before they get into the high schools," Hamel said.

Females are vastly underrepresented in the trades programs across the state's public schools. Of 840 students enrolled last year, 48 were female, said Mary Laturnau, with the state Department of Education Career Development Bureau.

Safety was a high priority as Hamel showed the girls how to work with the saw. Before using it, Hamel asked the girls to raise their hands if they were afraid of the saw. A few hands went up. Hamel asked again, and a few more hands went up.

"I should see every single hand up," Hamel said.

Sawdust was scattered across the floor as the girls worked in teams, sanding down large panels of wood and carrying them over to be cut. Many of the girls in the program said they already are involved in the technical education programs at their schools and had experience building things like birdhouses.

Alexus Farrell, a seventh-grader at Pennichuck Middle School, said she likes the technical education class because she gets to keep the things she builds. Last year, students built yo-yos and a gumball machine, among other things, she said.

When asked what they wanted to do, most of the girls weren't aspiring to work in construction. One wanted to be a fashion designer, another wanted to be a veterinarian. Nashua student Amanda Mwangi wants to be a doctor, but she was excited about taking part in the program.

"I barely went to sleep," Amanda said.

Ciera O'Brien, a seventh-grader at Pennichuck, realized how building things can make girls feel powerful.

"It inspires girls to do more in life," said

Along with picnic tables, the girls this week are making Adirondack chairs. The furniture will be sold privately, and the money will be used to help sustain the program.

On Friday, students participating from Nashua and Manchester will gather for the program's final day, when they will build things they will get to keep. They also will hear from speakers, including Karen White, director of the Manchester School of Technology, and Susan Huard, president of Manchester Community College.

Laturnau said funding from the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006 helped to pay for the program.

"This is really going to promote careers in construction to middle-aged girls so when they get to high school, they know it's an option," she said.

The wood used for the program was donated by various local companies, including Meridian Construction Corp., P.J. Currier Lumber Co. in Amherst, and Belletetes Lumber in Nashua.

Catherine Schoenenberger, director of the state chapter of National Association of Women in Construction, summed up the intent of the program in one word: empowerment.

"Instead of feeling like they need a man to do it, they'll know how to pick up a drill or use a saw," Schoenenberger said.

Ideas To Build On

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 13:41:29 +0000

Program gives girls a taste of careers in construction

Vocational insights: Power equipment is only part of the learning.

Patrisha Biron was reminding Caitryn Gibeau to check the spacing between boards on a picnic table they were building Monday. "Run your fingers along," Biron told Gibeau.

The two 11-year-olds were among 18 members of Girls Inc. Manchester who are taking part in Middle School Girls in Construction at Manchester Community College this week.

The 18 Manchester girls were building picnic tables Monday and will be back at work on another project today.

Nashua Girls Inc. members are scheduled to be there Wednesday and Thursday and both groups will be there Friday to build items they can take home.

The girls will also hear from speakers about potential careers in the construction and engineering fields as part of a program to promote those fields are career choices for girls in New Hampshire.

The impetus for the program is the statistics regarding high school students in the vocational school construction programs. Of 840 students, only 48 are female, said Mary Laturnau of the New Hampshire Department of Education Career Development Bureau, "This is a primary way to get them," she said.

Elaine Hamel, director of Girls at Work, a non-profit dedicated to empowering girls by teaching them woodworking, design and carpentry skills, was assisted by two other female instructors, but Hamel seemed to be everywhere at once. "Listen up" and "Hold your frames" were among the admonitions as the middle school-age girls occasionally were in too much of a hurry or didn't measure carefully, put screws in crooked, or had their safety glasses atop their heads instead of over their eyes as they worked in teams sanding, cutting and assembling tables. Hamel said it's not every day that the girls get the opportunity to build something. "The goal is to empower them," she said. "They walk away thinking they can build their own house."

That may be a slight exaggeration, but the enthusiasm was obvious.

"I didn't know it was gonna be this fun," Biron said. "It looks harder than it is."

Although Gibeau had to stand on a milk crate to be tall enough to use the power saw, she was the perfect height when it came to using the power screwdriver on the table top, not having to bend over.

Hamel said the teamwork is an important part of the project and so she deliberately broke up "friends" when determining teams. She said working as a team builds new bonds among the girls.

As 12-year-old Zania Norman carefully measured, to make sure the screw position in the center plank of the table top would tie the plank securely to the center support underneath, Catherine Schoenenberger of the National Association of Women in Construction said: "They've never had a screwdriver in their hands."

In this program, the girls are using power tools — saw, sanders, screwdrivers — but also learning the importance of lower-tech tools of the trade — tape measures and pencils.

While they are learning basics of construction, such as how to support a tabletop effectively, some of what is covered is common sense, like how close the board of a bench seat should be. Enough space to permit drainage after a rain, but close enough to avoid pinching butts.

At 9 years old, Claire Hoyt is the youngest participant, but she already has some experience. "I helped my dad build a chalkboard in my room," she said. "I like to build."

Not everybody would consider a career in the building trades. Norman, whose sister, Aliyah, 10, is also in the program, said: "Probably not, because it's a lot of work."

Cydney Nordstrom, 12, said: "I do enjoy wood work. I did wood shop at school."

But Nordstrom said her career choice of fashion designer has been set since she was a little girl and she doesn't plan to change.

That's fine with those behind this program. They aren't looking to have women take over the building trades and engineering, but they want to make it a viable career option for some who might not otherwise consider it.

The workshop is funded by the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006, in partnership with the ITM Partnership (Information Technology & Manufacturing), the New Hampshire Department of Education Career Development Bureau, Manchester Community College, Girls at Work and the National Association of Women in Construction.

Building supplies were donated by Meridian Construction Corp., Kamco Supply Corp., Eldridge Lumber & Hardware, P.J. Currier Lumber Co., LaValley Building Supply and Belletetes.

Litchfield Grad Building to a Bright Future

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 14:04:00 +0000

Most people in today's work environment would be happy to land a job out of college, but Seth Miller snagged two promising offers last month just a couple of weeks after graduating from Campbell High School.

Miller, 18, of Litchfield, made his good impression by placing fourth in the nationwide carpentry competition at the Skills USA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Kansas City, held June 19-24.

The Haskell Company and KBR General Contracting, both large construction and design firms, have spoken to Miller about his work and offered him a job once he gets out of school, Miller said.

The companies also mentioned summer internships, which Miller said he hopes to take advantage of next year. The commercial work could involve construction on all types of buildings, from skyscrapers to power plants to hospitals.

"If anything, it gave me more confidence," Miller said. "I'm not afraid of starting school and I'm not afraid of a job later. I'm looking forward to everything right now."

Miller starts class at Manchester Community College on Aug. 29. He plans to graduate in two years and then enroll in Wentworth Institute of Technology, but anything could change with his fast-rising reputation.

"When I got back from nationals, it hadn't hit me what a big accomplishment it was," he said. "The fall of my junior year I knew nothing, and a year and a half later I'm ranked fourth in the country."

That might sound cocky, but Miller's bravado comes off as passion for his trade. He credits his building trades teacher John Conrad for much of his sudden rise.

"I'm so grateful; he taught me everything," Miller said. "He's had a huge impact on my life, as a teacher, friend, mentor, everything."

Conrad was quick to fire praise back in Miller's direction.

"He's a super bright kid; he was my right-hand man and I'm really going to miss him," Conrad said. "You don't get many kids that take off with it that fast and really get into it.

"To be his age and know what you want to do is rare. I couldn't be happier for him. I'm very proud of him."

Miller has been happily busy this summer, working 60-65 hours a week and dividing his time between Goodale's Bike Shop in Nashua and many construction side jobs for local residents.

He's been getting "phone call after phone call" for side jobs, he said.

Miller plans to register his own company name this fall, when school starts up and he'll have a few more free hours in his schedule.

He's thinking Naticook Construction, named after his grandparents' farm, Naticook Farms.

"The farm's closed, but I'd like to keep the name going somehow," he said.

The national competition was based mainly on an eight-hour day of building, where Miller and 49 other state champions worked to complete a small shed made of wood and steel.

Miller and his fellow competitors had a chance to see the construction plans for 15 minutes the day prior to the challenge, and Miller noticed something he’d never made before: a hipped roof, where all sides slope gently downward to the walls.

Miller got straight to work. He broke out his book, read up on hipped roofs and even drew on the dresser in his hotel room, outlining his plan on it as if the tabletop was a new piece of wood.

The next day, Miller finished his project with five minutes to spare.

He said only about 10 other kids of the 49 competitors were able to finish in time.

"I know I did pretty well as I was looking around; I was thinking third or fourth place," he said. "On the last piece of wood, I had a moment and cut it five inches too short, but the rest was perfect."

Their final ranks also included scores on a full day of written testing and other station exercises during the conference.

With mentors, teachers and students, there were about 15,000 people at the convention throughout the week, Miller said, including over 6,600 students in about 90 different competitions.

He came to the competition with wide eyes last summer, when he placed 12th in the country as a junior, but he still felt the same excitement the second time around.

"I went into it knowing what it was like, and it still overwhelmed me," he said. "The competition was a blast. People asked me, 'How was it?' and I just couldn't talk. It was the best week."

Don't Delay, Register Today!

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 13:12:00 +0000

Registration for Fall 2011 classes is still open to everyone! Fall classes begin on August 29th and they are filling up fast. Register today to be sure you get the classes & schedule you want!

How to Register for Classes:


Online: *	Login to SIS and register. Download the SIS & Registering Checklist * First time students should meet with their academic advisor prior* to registering online. Online registration is only available for matriculated students*.
In Person:	Visit the Registrar's Office in the Student Services HUB (Suite 202).
By Phone:	Call the Registrar's Office at (603) 206-8120.
By Fax:	Complete the Registration Form and fax to the Registrar's Office at (603) 206-8287.
By Mail:	Complete and mail the Registration Form to the Registrar's Office. (Address on form.)

Register today, classes are filling up fast!

The Payment Deadline is approaching! Tuition payments are due by August 15th for the Fall 2011 Term. If you do not have your payment arrangements made by August 15th you will be dropped from your classes. To confirm your payment arrangements, contact the Bursar's Office at (603) 206-8130 or ManchesterBursar@ccsnh.edu before the payment deadline.

E-Bills Coming Soon!

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 16:06:00 +0000

Effective July 12th, Manchester Community College will change to a 100% online billing format. At the beginning of each month, students will receive an email notification (sent to their @students.ccsnh.edu email address) advising them that their current billing statement is available for viewing on the Student Information System (SIS).

As of July 12th, students will no longer receive bills in the mail; all billing statements will be viewable in SIS. The statements in SIS can be printed or downloaded in PDF format.

After viewing their statements online, students can choose to pay their bills directly online, by calling the Bursar's Office at
(603) 206-8130, or by visiting the Bursar's Office in the Student Services HUB.

For Student, Volunteer Work Comes Naturally

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 18:07:09 +0000

Whenever an earthquake or tsunami strikes a far-flung corner of the globe, Hillary Hughes gets to work.

Working with her brothers and sisters, Hughes puts together hygiene kits for disaster survivors, and then ships the supplies off to the affected regions. In recent years, survivors of earthquakes in Haiti, Chile and Indonesia have all received kits with supplies to keep themselves clean and healthy.

"I've gone to people in my community and have asked them for hygiene items like toothpaste and towels so that they can be able to be clean when they've lost everything," Hughes said.

When she's not helping victims of disasters — or studying abroad in places like Sweden or Amsterdam — you might find Hughes honing her musical skills on the harp or piano. You might also find her in a classroom at Manchester Community College. Hughes, who is home-schooled and has dyslexia, intends to earn an associate's degree in liberal arts by the time she gets her high school diploma.

This spring, Hillary was recognized for her volunteer work and academic achievements when she was selected to receive a Nestle Very Best in Youth award. The award recognizes just 22 students nationwide who have shown the leadership and initiative to positively affect the world.

For Hughes, working to change the world is something that comes naturally. When she was just 6 years old, Hughes and her family formed "Color My World: Kids Who Care," a nonprofit dedicated to relieving human suffering by providing humanitarian assistance to people in need.

At first, Hughes began her volunteer work by assembling school kits for children in Africa. Soon, Hughes and her family began sending hygiene kits to disaster victims. Hughes said she feels a strong empathy for people in need.

"Every time something happens I would think about, 'What if I was in a disaster and my home was destroyed by an earthquake?'" Hughes said. "I would want someone to help me. I would want somebody to be there for me."

Later this month, Hughes will fly out to Los Angeles with her mother to attend Nestle's red carpet awards ceremony. Despite that honor, awards aren't a goal for Hughes; for her, volunteering is a way of life. Both of Hughes' parents, Angela Hughes and Brian Hughes, grew up volunteering and wanted to raise their four children in the same way.

"I think it's just in our blood. We grew up from really service-oriented families and just really have a desire to give back," said Angela Hughes. "I think when you've been given much, you have to give back. It's just something we've tried to incorporate from the get-go." As an adult, Hillary Hughes may, like her parents, teach a younger generation the value of service. A keen student who loves to learn about the Renaissance and Tudor England, Hughes intends to become an elementary school teacher.

One day not too far in the future, Hughes may find herself teaching students about the importance of history — and volunteer work.

"I want to go into teaching — I want to help other people," Hughes said. "I love learning so much and I want to help back, and give children a love of learning."

Few Spots Still Available for New Summer Camps at MCC

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 13:10:32 +0000

There are still a limited number of spots left in each of the Summer Camp Sessions... Download the registration form and reserve your child's spot today!

The Education Department at Manchester Community College is offering a new summer camp program to children entering first through fifth grades. The program will run three sessions the weeks of July 11th through the week of August 15th.

Each program runs from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The fee is $150 per week, and space is limited to 20 children per session.

The summer camp sessions are...

Session 1, July 11 - 22: Science Camp!
Children will observe, investigate, and experiment with a variety of topics including rocks, snails and ocean/pond life, chemistry magic, trees and plants, and dinosaurs. Children will engage in hands-on science experiments and investigations and complete fun lab reports.

Session 2, July 25 - Aug. 5: Art Camp!
During this two-week session campers will express their creativity using a variety of art media, including paints, collage materials, 3-D art, and will also experiment with unique media.

Session 3, Aug. 8 - 19: Literacy Camp!
Authors and illustrators, story-stretchers, drama and books, books, books! Children will engage in a variety of activities based around literacy. This is a great way to "brush up" on their reading/writing skills in an entertaining way before the new school year starts!

For more information, call MCC Education Department Chair Jan Caron at 206-8045, or email her at jcaron@ccsnh.edu. Space is limited!