In rooms that would intimidate many, Northern Essex Student Trustee Melissa Horne found her voice advocating for her fellow students and the college. She shares how the experience impacted her and, hopefully, those making decisions on behalf of college students everywhere.
Early on in February, I had the pleasure and honor of traveling to our nation’s capital for the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) National Legislative Summit. There, I was able to connect with other student trustees from across our country to advocate on behalf of our student bodies on issues from Pell Grants to childcare.
It was a once in a lifetime opportunity to listen to their stories and watch the next generation of leaders from all ages and backgrounds.
“It has been a life-changing experience to serve as the NECC Student Trustee and share my story with our nation’s leaders” Melissa Horne
I sat with Massachusetts Senator Ed Markey, Rep. Seth Moulton’s staff, and Rep. Lori Trahan. With each elected official, I shared my own personal experiences and spoke about the needs of our community college students across our entire state.
It has been a life-changing experience to serve as the NECC Student Trustee and share my story with our nation’s leaders, allowing a face to be connected to the laws that impact not only Massachusetts, but our entire country.
I am a mother of six. I have been an entrepreneur and small business owner for over a decade in the Merrimack Valley. I ran a campaign that helped elect Haverhill’s first Latina to their School Committee. I have been able to use those life skills and apply them to my college journey as well as connecting with fellow students on both campuses.
My own personal story is vast, complex, and filled with life’s ups and downs. It is also not unique. It is the American story. It is the story of community college students that are starting out or restarting their lives. Our stories matter and I will continue to speak up for as long as I can.
To our NECC student body, NECC Leadership, my fellow Trustees: thank you for allowing a local mom, who never thought she would ever go to college, live out her wildest dreams. I hope I am making you and my children proud.
The journey has just begun.
– Melissa Horne, NECC Student Trustee
