CCSNH Recognized as Business of the Year for Education

For 34 years, Business NH Magazine and the NH Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives have recognized outstanding businesses, nonprofits, and leaders in the state. The Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH) is pleased to have been recognized as this year’s Business of the Year for Education. 

“Since we were established, CCSNH has continuously evolved to meet the needs of students, the workforce, our communities and the State,” said Mark Rubinstein, chancellor of CCSNH. “From our post-World War II origin as two trade schools serving a few hundred students, CCSNH has become a statewide system of comprehensive community colleges that play a leading role in providing opportunity and strengthening the Granite State.”

CCSNH was selected by a Panel of Excellence made up of executives from previous award-winning organizations. Criteria considered includes industry leadership and innovation, community involvement and civic contributions along with letters of recommendation from local chambers of commerce and business leaders.



“The Community College System of New Hampshire is top ten in the nation and a critical part of our efforts to build the workforce of tomorrow in the Granite State," said New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte. “I am proud to see them recognized as Business of the Year for education. From growing our health care workforce, to supporting dual and concurrent enrollment, to expanding opportunities in the trades and other critical fields, our community colleges have and will continue to be an important partner in keeping New Hampshire a beacon of economic opportunity.”

The Foundation for NH Community Colleges Awards Record Number of Scholarships Totaling $1.1 Million

The Foundation for New Hampshire Community Colleges (The Foundation) awarded a record-breaking 1,650 scholarships totaling $1.1 million during the 2025–26 academic year. This represents the highest number of scholarships awarded in the organization’s 25-year history.

Through 131 scholarship funds, The Foundation supported students with scholarships ranging from $200 to $3,000, with an average award of $670. These funds were applied toward tuition, fees, and emergency financial needs to reduce obstacles that can derail a student’s path to degree completion.

“Behind every scholarship is a student with a goal and a story,” said Tim Allison, The Foundation’s executive director. “Thanks to our donors’ generosity, we were able to cover expenses ranging from tuition to emergency needs, helping remove barriers and create pathways to success. This record-breaking year underscores our shared commitment to making education more accessible for New Hampshire residents.”

CCSNH Honors the Stebbins Family with the Walter Peterson Award During GBCC's 80th Anniversary Celebration

On the evening Great Bay Community College (GBCC) celebrated its 80th anniversary, the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH) presented the 2026 Walter R. Peterson Award for Education and Public Service to the Stebbins family – combining a milestone in education in the Seacoast region with one of the state’s most meaningful recognitions of public service.

“What makes Great Bay unique is our close connection with the Seacoast,” said Cheryl Lesser, president of GBCC. “We listen, adapt and respond to the needs of our region. Our partnerships with local businesses and industries are central to that work. Together we prepare students not just for jobs, but for meaningful careers that strengthen our local economy. As we celebrate 80 years, we also look ahead to the next 80 years, with gratitude for our past and excitement for our future.”

More than 200 people attended the event, including GBCC students, staff, alumni, business, civic and political leaders.

CCSNH Chancellor Dr. Mark Rubinstein welcomed Stebbins family members and highlighted the long-lasting impact of their service across the Granite State.

“The Stebbins family’s community service and engagement with New Hampshire spans decades and reflects an inspiring family ethic that is passed down from generation to generation,” said Dr. Rubinstein.