Haverhill, MA (September 6, 2022) –Northern Essex Community College launched the start of a new semester with the Fall 2022 Convocation on September 6. Members of the NECC community gathered on the Haverhill Campus to explore the theme Empowering Students and Transforming Lives: NECC Student Stories of Inspirational Change. This was the first in-person convocation since January 2020.

Strategic Plan

The morning started with a review of the college’s new strategic plan titled “Success for All at NECC: Strategic Plan 2022-2027.” The college recently submitted the plan to the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education for review and feedback. It will be finalized during the fall semester. NECC President Lane Glenn highlighted the process of developing the plan and explained how students took center stage from the beginning. “NECC is deeply committed to ensuring that every student, regardless of background, has access to an equitable, affordable, and exceptional academic experience at every step of their journey with us.”

Chief Officer of Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Francellis Quiñones is NECC’s first Chief Officer of Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

NECC’s newly-hired Chief Officer of Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, Francellis Quiñones, spoke about her background and vision for NECC’s Center for Equality and Social Justice. “This work is not mine alone; this is a job for all of us,” she said. “We all thrive when the focus is getting all people across that bridge.”

Quiñones is the college’s first Chief Officer of Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. She lives in Haverhill with her husband and two daughters and has been dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion work in the Merrimack Valley for nearly 20 years.

Student Panel

Fall 2022 Convocation closed with a student panel facilitated by Dean of Students Jonathan Miller. Five students shared why they chose NECC and how they’ve found success at the college.

Jessica Newey and Sarah Pachano were part of the student panel.

Current Student Trustee Sarah Pachano credits an advisor for helping her realize she was unhappy with her major and encouraging her to make a brave choice to change. “For the first time in my life, I felt like someone actually cared.” Fellow student Pascale Percy shared that since starting classes, she’s already experienced career growth. She worked in a factory and now works at a financial institution. And she’s quick to share her experience with others. “NECC gave me the opportunity to show people around me how to improve their life.”

Welcomes and Farewells

NECC officially introduces new employees at each convocation and sends a fond farewell to recent retirees. View the complete list of Welcomes and Farewells here.