Northern Essex Community College is proud to welcome Alfred (Fred) Denesowicz ’98 as the college’s new Veteran and Military Services Coordinator. A dedicated advocate for veterans and military-affiliated students, Denesowicz brings a wealth of experience in both military service and higher education support.

A native of Haverhill, MA, and an NECC alumnus, Denesowicz graduated in 1998 and was an active member of the Student Senate, serving as Secretary. He also participated in the PACE program and spent countless hours in the Math, English, and computer labs—experiences that shaped his passion for student success.

Alfred (Fred) Denesowicz ’98 is NECC’s new Veteran and Military Services Coordinator

Denesowicz is a retired U.S. Army Master Sergeant with 26 years of service, including extensive experience in Human Resources and Career Counseling. An Afghan War veteran, he has traveled to several countries throughout his military career. With a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Eastern Nazarene College and an MBA in Human Resource Management from Touro University International, Denesowicz is well-equipped to guide and support NECC’s veteran and military-connected students.

“This really comes full circle for me,” Denesowicz shares. “I was a chef by trade from Whittier Tech but realized I needed to go to college. I joined the Army to get college money, and when I started at NECC, I wasn’t very academic. Working as a VA work-study student in the financial aid office, helping students with their benefits, I realized how rewarding it was to assist military members. That led me from HR to career counseling, and now, being able to take on a role like this—where I can use all my experience to make a difference—is really fulfilling.”

Denesowicz understands firsthand the challenges veterans face transitioning from military to civilian life. “It’s a different world,” he explains. “Veterans and service members go through some heavy stuff, and that transition can be extremely difficult. I’ve been through it myself—I speak their language. That’s why I’m here, to be an advocate, to help them navigate their benefits, and to make sure they get the support they need.”

At NECC, approximately 70 students actively use their military benefits, with another 100 to 120 veterans attending in some capacity. Denesowicz’s goal is to ensure all veteran and military-affiliated students know about and take advantage of the resources available to them. “I’ve used these benefits to pay for my education through my master’s degree—I get it,” he says. “I can counsel students on the best way to use their benefits, including free community college options, so they can save benefits for future education or family members. It’s all about figuring out the next step.”

The Veteran and Military Services Office is located in SC214 on the Haverhill campus, and Denesowicz will soon start having regular office hours on the Lawrence Campus as well. He says his door is always open. “Students don’t need to make an appointment, I’m always available for support or to provide information.”

Learn more about Veteran and Military Services at NECC by visiting the webpage.