Lawrence Mayor Daniel Rivera and Dr. Noemi Custodia-Lora, executive director of NECC’s Lawrence campus and community relations during the 2015 Dominican Republic Independence Day activities in Lawrence.

On February 27, on the 171^st Dominican Republic Independence Day, Dr. Noemi Custodia-Lora, executive director of Northern Essex Community College Lawrence campus and community relations, was honored by Lawrence Mayor Daniel Rivera and State Representative Frank Moran for her contributions to the community.

Rivera and Moran presented her with proclamations following a Dominican Republic flag raising ceremony at Lawrence City Hall.

The Haverhhill resident, a native of Puerto Rico, whose parents are both Dominican, was recognized for her contributions to Northern Essex where she taught before becoming the coordinator of the Associate Degree in Lab Science. This program was developed in collaboration with area employers.

Custodia-Lora was also honored for being instrumental in securing a $1.24 million grant from the Massachusetts Life Science Center to build and renovate science labs on both the Haverhill and Lawrence campuses. She was lauded for her involvement with forging partnerships with public schools designed to promote science fields especially among Latinos.

For additional information contact Analuz Garcia at agarcia@necc.mas.edu or 978-738-7423.