Grace Young (shown left) with Tribute to Women Co-Chair Elizabeth Rose (shown right)

Grace Young, dean of academic support services, articulation, and transfer at Northern Essex Community College, has been selected as a recipient of the YWCA Tribute to Women Award for her decade-long commitment to the efforts of the college and its students.

Young received the honor last month at the 26th annual Tribute to Women Luncheon, a special event honoring women who excel in the fields of art, business, education, finance, health, human services, and volunteerism. The program featured remarks by YWCA Board of Directors President Patricia O’Brien, Haverhill Mayor James Fiorentini, and Tribute to Women Co-Chair Elizabeth Rose.

Annually, YWCA Haverhill sponsors Tribute to Women, an uplifting event that includes an Academy of Women Reception and Honoree Awards Luncheon.  The Tribute to Women Award recognizes a small group of women living and/or working in the Essex County or Southern New Hampshire areas who have made outstanding contributions in their careers and communities.

Northern Essex President Lane Glenn nominated Young for the award, crediting her for building a student-centered advising and transfer program at the college.  “She is extremely passionate about her work at NECC and is truly committed to the college and its students.”

Young will be inducted into the Haverhill YWCA’s Academy of Women as a result of her achievement.

After working as a police officer for 14 years, Grace Young turned to the field of higher education in 2001 and soon obtained a career as a transfer and advising coordinator at NECC. Young went on to become the director of academic advising before moving into her current position as dean of academic support services, articulation, and transfer. Through her various roles at the college, she has taken great strides to develop stronger articulation pathways and revitalize academic program offerings. Young holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Texas A&M University and a master’s degree in occupational social work from Syracuse University.