Hello, friends,
The creation of free community college has changed the higher education landscape in Massachusetts, first through MassReconnect, which provides free tuition for Massachusetts residents over age 25 without a degree, and more recently through MassEducate, which extends similar benefits to eligible
residents of all ages.
While eliminating tuition removes a significant barrier, many challenges remain: balancing family responsibilities with coursework, gaining hands-on job experience, and affording everyday expenses like gas and childcare. At Northern Essex, we are committed to supporting students holistically. But we cannot do it alone.
In this issue of alumnecc, we examine the power of the collective— how you, through partnership, philanthropy, and advocacy help bring our mission to life and empower students to achieve remarkable milestones.
You’ll read about the NJCAA Division III National Championship- winning Men’s Basketball team, the first team in school history to capture a national title. The road to the ultimate win was paved by decades of sustained support from across NECC’s community.
We’ll also introduce you to lifelong friends Jim Kennedy and John Opolski ’84. Though Jim did not attend NECC, he was inspired to establish a scholarship in memory of John’s twin sons—creating a legacy that will support Northern Essex nursing students for years to come.
And, with 3.2 million followers on Instagram and 3.8 million on TikTok, you may already know Lennie Simo. We’ll share how he went from making beats with a pen at Lawrence High School, to music production classes at NECC, to viral fame.
No one succeeds alone, and these stories are just a few that show what is possible through hard work, collaboration, generosity and having your community in your corner. We’re grateful to have you in ours.
Appreciatively,
Lane A. Glenn
President
