Her path began in 2017 when she enrolled at �鶹��Ժ Community College shortly after high school. Initially pursuing early childhood education before switching to business, Jelley struggled to find her footing academically and eventually found herself on academic probation. She decided to pause her studies to gain perspective and take responsibility for her future.

“I didn’t do well. I wasn’t in the right mindset,” she said, looking back at those early years. “After my first year, I decided I needed to step away and figure out what I wanted to do. I needed to take some responsibility.”

During a three-year hiatus, Jelley entered the workforce full-time in an entry-level position. This period was transformative. Through her professional experiences, she developed a stronger sense of maturity, discipline, and work ethic, qualities that would ultimately redefine her approach to education. In 2021, she returned to �鶹��Ժ, focusing on accounting, a field she was drawn to by her natural aptitude for math and her mother’s influence.

“I decided I wanted to go back, approach it differently, and prove to myself I could do it,” she said. “I went back as an adult, and I took it more seriously. It was something I was choosing to do, and not something I felt I had to do.”

Jelley embraced the challenge of balancing a full-time career with her college course load. Over the four years it took to complete her degree, she excelled academically, proving her capability and dedication. She graduated with her associate degree in accounting in 2024, marking the successful completion of a journey nearly a decade in the making.

She turned her early struggles into a story of resilience and professional triumph. “I am extremely proud of what I accomplished,” she said.

Her academic success quickly translated into professional opportunity. In fall 2024, Jelley began working as an accounts payable associate at Sprague Energy. Earlier this year, she applied for and received a promotion to staff accountant. Now seven months into her new role, Jelley feels a profound sense of confidence—and accomplishment.

“�鶹��Ժ gave me the foundation to succeed and prove to myself that I am capable of finishing what I started,” she said.

For Jelley, returning to college was about more than earning a degree. It was an opportunity to prove that past setbacks do not define future success. Through determination, accountability, and a willingness to begin again, she turned a difficult start into an accomplishment she is deeply proud of and built the foundation for a promising career in accounting.

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The program arrives as demand for law enforcement leadership grows: employment for first-line supervisors of police and detectives in New Hampshire is projected to grow 8% from 2022 to 2032 — more than double the roughly 3% growth rate projected nationally for the same occupation over a comparable 10-year period — according to New Hampshire Employment Security’s Economic and Labor Market Information Bureau.

Through a curriculum grounded in advanced leadership theory, research methods and a hands-on capstone experience, students critically assess and navigate the complexities of organizational behavior, ethical decision-making, policy analysis and evidence-based practices.

“Criminal justice leadership demands more than experience,” said Eric Kulberg, department chair and professor of GBCC’s Criminal Justice Program. “It demands the ability to think critically, lead ethically and adapt to an ever-changing landscape. This certificate gives working professionals and aspiring leaders a structured pathway to develop those skills while applying them directly to the real-world challenges they face.”

After completing the program, students will be prepared to develop strategies for team building and personnel management while applying research methodologies to inform policy and evidence-based decision-making. The program culminates in a capstone project in which students integrate and apply their learning to address a current issue facing a criminal justice agency.

The certificate is built on three core courses — Criminal Justice Leadership, Criminal Justice Research Methods and Criminal Justice Leadership Capstone — all available this fall semester. To complete the 16 to 17 credit program, students choose two electives from areas including Organizational Behavior, Crisis Planning and Management, Victim Rights & Advocacy and Critical Thinking in the Humanities.

For more information or to register, visit GreatBay.edu/Program/Criminal-Justice-Leadership

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“I’m proud that New Hampshire’s community colleges are once again the best in New England and top ten in the nation,” said Governor Ayotte. “Our CCSNH students, faculty, and staff are talented, hardworking, and dedicated to building a stronger future for our state. We will continue to ensure our community colleges are affordable, innovative, and responsive to the needs of growing businesses in New Hampshire.”

“CCSNH is proud to be recognized as one of our nation’s best community college systems,” said Dr. Chuck Lloyd, CCSNH chancellor-elect. “These rankings are based on quality, outcomes, and affordability. That is what we strive to provide for New Hampshire students and the state’s skilled workforce and economy. Time after time we hear from graduates who praise the quality education they received at our colleges, the doors that were opened thanks to their experiences with us, and the positive impact it has made on their lives. New Hampshire is our mission, and we are committed to doing our best for the Granite State.”

�鶹��Ժ CCSNH:

The Community College System of NH consists of seven colleges offering associate degree and certificate programs, professional training, transfer pathways to four-year degrees and dual-credit partnerships with NH high schools. Colleges include �鶹��Ժ Community College in Portsmouth; Lakes Region Community College in Laconia; Manchester Community College; Nashua Community College; NHTI – Concord’s Community College; River Valley Community College in Claremont, Lebanon and Keene; and White Mountains Community College in Berlin and Littleton. CCSNH serves more than 25,000 students statewide, providing affordable access to a high-quality education. For more information, visit .

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The Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH) has been selected for a $25,000 grant from the Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI)  to enhance the Culinary Arts & Sustainable Foodways program at �鶹��Ժ Community College (GBCC). CCSNH has received $150,000 in support of career and technical education programs throughout the initiative’s existence, and for the third year in a row, CCSNH is recognized as the only institution in the Granite State to receive funding that will expand access to skilled trade programs.

Through the Foundation for New Hampshire Community Colleges (The Foundation), the grant will award financial assistance to students to offset the cost of attendance and provide a local pathway to meet the demand of the well-established restaurant industry in the seacoast and beyond.

Tim Allison, executive director of The Foundation said, “The generosity of Metallica and their philanthropic organization will help fuel the ambition of GBCC students who wish to cultivate their culinary careers, gaining the training and hands-on experience needed to truly thrive in a highly in-demand industry.”

The Culinary Arts and Sustainable Foodways program was co-created by James Beard Award-nominated chef instructors and GBCC. The 12-week certificate program includes 10 hours of classroom instruction and five hours of on-the-job training per week through externships at local establishments. The program incorporates a wide range of guest speakers and trips to local farms and purveyors to provide first-hand insights about preparing and serving food in a sustainable manner. According to the United States Department of Labor, employment of chefs and head cooks is projected to grow 7% from 2025-2033.

Since securing its first round of funding from the Metallica Scholars Initiative, CCSNH has supported students in programs that include welding, aviation technology, massage therapy and culinary arts.

All Within My Hands (AWMH), the nonprofit, philanthropic organization created by the members and management of Metallica, proudly announces the eighth year of its MSI with its largest grant to date: over $3.3 million. Eighteen new US schools will join the returning 75 colleges in the fall for a total of 93 in the program. In addition, later this year, the Metallica Scholars Initiative will also expand to the United Kingdom in partnership with Capital City College Group in London.

Since launching in 2019, AWMH has worked closely with its long-time partner, the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), helping to support approximately 13,000 community college students learn the skills needed for in-demand careers with family-sustaining wages.

Metallica’s James Hetfield said, “This thing started as a dream. Now our program is changing lives. To expand our impact on a global scale and support even more students is so rewarding. We’re so proud of all the Metallica Scholars who have come through it and all the ones who will participate in it. It’s humbling to know we’ve been part of the journey of thousands of trade professionals doing good, hard work in the world.”

�鶹��Ժ CCSNH
The Community College System of NH consists of seven colleges, offering associate degree and certificate programs, professional training, transfer pathways to four-year degrees, and dual-credit partnerships with NH high schools. The System’s colleges are �鶹��Ժ Community College in Portsmouth; Lakes Region Community College in Laconia; Manchester Community College; Nashua Community College; NHTI – Concord’s Community College; River Valley Community College in Claremont, Lebanon and Keene; and White Mountains Community College in Berlin and Littleton. CCSNH serves more than 25,000 students across the state providing affordable access to a high-quality education and economic opportunity. For more information, visit .

�鶹��Ժ All Within My Hands

Established in 2017, All Within My Hands (AWMH) is a nonprofit, philanthropic organization conceived by the members and management of Metallica and dedicated to creating sustainable communities by supporting workforce education, the fight against hunger, and other critical local services. Metallica covers all administrative costs, so 100% of donations go directly to the organizations supported by the Foundation. To date, All Within My Hands has provided grants of $19 million to career and technical education programs through its Metallica Scholars Initiative, $8.8 million to combat food insecurity, and $6.2 million to disaster relief and other critical local services worldwide. Visit to learn more. And follow us on , , , and .

�鶹��Ժ American Association of Community Colleges

As the voice of the nation’s community colleges, the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) delivers educational and economic opportunity for more than 10 million diverse students in search of the American Dream. Uniquely dedicated to access and success for all students, AACC’s member colleges provide an on-ramp to degree attainment, skilled careers, and family-supporting wages. Located in Washington, D.C., AACC advocates for these not-for-profit, public-serving institutions to ensure they have the resources and support they need to deliver on the mission of increasing economic mobility for all.

Media Contacts:

CCSNH & The Foundation

Kristen Lestock

Vice President of Communications and Client Engagement

Kristen@cookson.agency

All Within My Hands Foundation

Renee Richardson, Director of Philanthropy

renee@allwithinmyhands.org

(415) 458-1532 x10

American Association of Community Colleges

Dr. Martha M. Parham, Sr. Vice President, Public Relations

mparham@aacc.nche.edu

(202) 728-0200

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“This event is for prospective students in any phase of the application process, including those who have not applied or those who have been accepted and are ready for advising and registration. The goal is for you to leave this event registered for fall Classes” said Steve Gorman, Director of GBCC Admissions.

Fall courses, starting August 31^st,  September 28th, and October 26^th are available in a range of formats, including in-person on campus, online, and hybrid, as well as a hyflex approach that allows students to self-design their attendance preferences.

Express Admissions is also a great opportunity to get information and support on financing options for a debt-free college education. will hold a FAFSA Open House from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. during the College’s Express Admissions Day event.  In-person support will be available to help answer questions about the FAFSA form and assist in filling it out.

“Many students make their college decision in the weeks leading up to the start of the semester”, said Gorman. “At the same time, growing numbers of students are prioritizing affordable education, flexible schedules, and programs that lead directly to employment or seamless transfer to a four-year university. Express Admissions helps students quickly complete the process so they can secure the courses they want and begin the semester ready to succeed.”

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McCluskey enrolled in the tuition-free professional development and workforce training program through �鶹��Ժ Community College in Portsmouth, and before the two-week intensive ended, he had already interviewed for his next career opportunity.

WorkReadyNH is designed to boost the career skills and confidence of New Hampshire residents. Offered through the Community College System of New Hampshire and partnered with NH Employment Security, it targets unemployed, underemployed, and career-transitioning individuals to help them stand out to local employers.

The curriculum uses a blend of live, interactive group classes and independent online work focusing on professional soft skills, essential workplace skills, and career preparation.

After owning and operating his own business for several years, McCluskey realized he needed to refresh his soft skills in order to rejoin the workforce. Specifically, he needed to learn how to be a better listener.

“I thought I was a good communicator and listener, because that is the role I played for more than 20 years,” he said. “But I realized I had some things I need to work on, and this program gave me the opportunity to do it.”

McCluskey participated in a cohort of about 18 students. Over the course of their two weeks together, they engaged in a variety of group activities and role-playing, based on common work scenarios. One of those involved preparing for a job interview and perfecting the art of the 60-second opening pitch.

“I had conducted thousands of interviews as a business owner, but I had only been interviewed maybe four times,” McCluskey said. “I had never even really thought about a pitch speech or worked on any exercise like that.”

His efforts paid off. On the day he was scheduled to make his pitch before his classmates, he got to practice it for an actual job interview. The interview went well, and McCluskey came away from it confident he had found his next work opportunity.

“Doing that exercise made me so much calmer. I knew my story, and I knew how I wanted to tell it. It brought structure to the process, and it gave me confidence,” he said.

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Panciuc is an intern in the title department at Service Credit Union, where she has learned to process titles for automobiles, motorcycles, boats, RVs, and other items during a 10-week internship arranged through �鶹��Ժ.

“It’s been an amazing summer and an amazing experience,” she said. “I have learned so much, and Service Credit Union is a great place to work. Everyone has been so helpful.”

Panciuc enrolled at �鶹��Ժ in fall 2024 based on the positive reviews she had read about the college. As a European student, she worked closely with the admissions team at �鶹��Ժ to ensure her academic transcripts were in order and that she was eligible for enrollment.

“�鶹��Ժ was very, very helpful in my path to enroll in classes. There were some complications with the documents, and �鶹��Ժ was extremely helpful and patient, and very responsive.”

Soon after enrolling, she declared Business Administration as her major and committed to completing the degree as quickly as possible, which meant taking summer classes last year. She will continue her education at UNH this fall, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in accounting.

“My career goal is to get another internship next summer in accounting, and then start my career after I graduate,” she said.

Panciuc expressed gratitude to Lynda Bonneau, Business Administration Department Chair and Associate Professor, who helped guide her. “Professor Bonneau made the experience in accounting so interesting and so much fun,” she said. “That is why I chose accounting as my major at UNH. �鶹��Ժ was an absolutely amazing experience.”

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Proclaims May “Early College Month” in NH

Governor Kelly Ayotte issued a proclamation identifying May as Early College Month in New Hampshire. Through its , the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH) provides opportunities for high school students to earn college credit at low or no cost to New Hampshire families. At a State House event, CCSNH and the Governor recognized seven high school partners as “Early College Advocates” for promoting the program to students.

Jaclyn Chisholm, assistant principal of curriculum and instruction at Portsmouth High School, was recognized for her efforts to grow the Early College program and broaden access for Portsmouth students. She was named the �鶹��Ժ Community College Early College Advocate for her advocacy, innovation and commitment to the program.

“Early college programs at New Hampshire’s community colleges enable thousands of high school students each year to earn college credit, save on college costs, and gain the confidence to thrive in postsecondary education and in careers,” said Governor Ayotte.

CCSNH’s Early College programs help students get ahead academically by earning dual high school and college credit while reducing college costs and debt. This year, 11,100 students from 125 high schools enrolled in Early College and earned 18,552 college credits. Through recent investments by the governor and state Legislature, students and families are expected to save at least $15 million in future college costs through CCSNH’s Early College program.

“Early College enables motivated students to pursue academically challenging courses and lessen the barrier of cost and the burden of debt that might otherwise inhibit them from pursuing postsecondary education that is critical to their futures and to New Hampshire’s,” said Mark Rubinstein, CCSNH chancellor. “This is only possible through a partnership with these talented educators and with the strong support CCSNH receives from the State of New Hampshire.”

At the May 20 proclamation ceremony, CCSNH and Governor Ayotte recognized Chisholm as the �鶹��Ժ Community College Early College Advocate, as well as the following Early College Advocates from across the state:

• Lakes Region Community College: Cheryl Dore-Chapman, School Counselor, Franklin High School
• Manchester Community College:James Choquette, Social Studies Teacher, Londonderry High School
• Nashua Community College: Stacey Kallelis, Career-Connected Learning Coordinator, Salem High School
• NHTI – Concord’s Community College:Jessamyn Rockwell, Extended Learning Opportunities Coordinator, Concord High School
• River Valley Community College:Kim Gogan, Flexible Pathways Coordinator, Windsor High School
• White Mountains Community College: Michelle Larcomb, Math Teacher, Groveton High School

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At the Chamber’s Annual Awards Celebration, “A Night To Shine,” held on Wednesday evening, May 20, 2026, at The Oaks Grandview, the Chamber proudly presented the 8^th Annual Nonprofit of the Year award to �鶹��Ժ Community College.

Since 1945, �鶹��Ժ Community College has served as a vital educational and workforce development institution across Strafford and Rockingham counties. With nearly 90,000 students educated over its history, the college has maintained a longstanding commitment to expanding access to affordable, high-quality education.

�鶹��Ժ Community College is the largest public provider of affordable workforce training in the region and plays a critical role in preparing individuals for in-demand careers. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1, the college provides accessible, personalized instruction that supports student success and workforce readiness.

The college offers diverse academic and career pathways, including culinary arts, medical assisting, phlebotomy, analytics, and data-focused programs. These offerings are designed to meet evolving workforce needs while creating meaningful opportunity for students across the region.

�鶹��Ժ Community College has also strengthened its community impact through partnerships including the Judy Mettee Institute and the Housing Authority Education Partnership. These collaborations reflect a commitment to removing barriers and expanding access to education for all learners.

At the core of its mission, �鶹��Ժ Community College believes in each student’s potential. That belief continues to guide its work in education, workforce development, and community advancement.

The Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce was proud to recognize �鶹��Ժ Community College’s impact and present it with the 2026 Nonprofit of the Year award.

Representatives from New Hampshire Farm Museum, the 2025 recipient, presented the award.
Dr. Cheryl Lesser, President, accepted on behalf of �鶹��Ժ Community College.

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Accounting A.S. Degree- Brady Cox

Analytics A.S. Degree- Aidan Kearney

Biological Science A.S. Degree- Amiah Duddy

Biotechnology A.S. Degree- Brandon Smith

Business Administration A.S. Degree-  Meghan Wentworth

Chemistry A.A. Degree- Miguel Teixeira

Computer Technologies A.S. Degree- Daniel Esmonde

Criminal Justice A.S. Degree- Anna Scruton

Cyber Security Infrastructure A.S. Degree- Donald Coates

Digital Media Communications A.S. Degree- Isabel Alvarez

Early Childhood Education A.S. Degree- Isabella Raiti

Educator Preparation A.S. Degree- Liam Charte

Engineering A.S. Degree- Osiris Willow

English A.A. Degree- Kathryn Klemarczyk

Environmental Science A.S. Degree- Autumn Anderson

Fine Arts A.A. Degree- Jasmin Fuller

Homeland Security & Emergency Management A.S. Degree- Edward Priestley

Information Systems Technology A.S. Degree- Finnian Allen

Liberal Arts A.A. Degree- Erin Boylan

Nursing A.S. Degree- Emily Lewis

Psychology A.A. Degree- Elliott Lane

Surgical Technology A.S. Degree- Amy Lunt

Technical Studies A.S. Degree- Khali Heath

Veterinary Technology A.S. Degree- Hailee Moore

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