Executive Director Julie Demers

The has played an important role in the state’s growth by connecting people and organizations, supporting business development, and championing the technology sector. Through its partnerships and advocacy, the Alliance has helped create new opportunities and strengthen New Hampshire’s economic future. Executive Director Julie Demers will deliver the Commencement address and accept an honorary degree on behalf of the organization.

Its impact can be seen across a wide range of industries, including information technology services, enterprise software, consulting, hardware, med tech, manufacturing, and education. The organization represents more than 250 member companies that collectively employ over 50,000 people. Together, they help drive a statewide technology sector valued at approximately $11.12 billion, accounting for 12.6% of New Hampshire’s gross domestic product.

Rivier will confer the degree of Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, upon the Tech Alliance in recognition of its commitment to innovation, leadership, and service. The University also recognizes the leadership of the Tech Alliance’s Board of Directors and Executive Director Julie Demers for advancing values that reflect Rivier’s Latin motto, Altiora et Meliora — higher and better.

“The New Hampshire Tech Alliance exemplifies the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and service that is central to Rivier’s mission,� says Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President. “Through visionary leadership, the Alliance has strengthened New Hampshire’s technology sector while opening pathways of opportunity for students, entrepreneurs, and the next generation of innovators.�

Rivier is committed to preparing students for careers in emerging technology fields through bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Information Systems, Computer Science, and Cybersecurity Management and Leadership. The University’s state-of-the-art Cybersecurity Lab, opened in 2022, mirrors a professional security operations center, giving students practical experience in a modern, career-focused environment.

A Catholic University with programs from the associate to doctoral level, Rivier is recognized for academic excellence, including a distinguished ranking as the #1 nursing school in New Hampshire and among the nation’s top 50 private nursing schools by Nursing Schools Almanac. The University also offers New Hampshire’s top-ranked online master’s programs and is guided by its mission of transforming hearts and minds to serve the world.

For more information about the University’s 91st Commencement, please visit the Commencement information page.

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This new gift builds on the Foundation’s initial $2 million commitment to Rivier and will provide enhanced scholarship support for deserving undergraduate nursing students over the next three years. The Bedford Falls Foundation, established by philanthropist and Nashua native William Conway, Jr. and his late wife, Joanne Barkett Conway, supports more than 50 nursing schools across the country.

“With profound gratitude for the continued partnership of the Bedford Falls Foundation, Rivier is positioned to prepare even more nurses who will make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and families across New Hampshire and beyond,� says Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President. “This additional investment strengthens our mission and accelerates the vital work of addressing the region’s critical nursing shortage.�

Rivier’s Division of Nursing and Health Professions is widely recognized for its exceptional preparation of highly skilled, compassionate nursing professionals who are ready to lead in today’s complex healthcare environment. With state, regional, and national rankings, including recognition as the #1 Nursing School in New Hampshire and one of the Top 50 private nursing schools in the country, Rivier continues to set the standard for excellence in nursing education.

“The generosity of the Bedford Falls Foundation removes financial barriers, allowing our students to focus on their academic preparation, clinical training, and service to the community,� says Dr. Paula Williams, Dean of the Division of Nursing and Health Professions and Vice President for Academic Affairs. “This transformative support will have a lasting impact on the quality of care our Rivier graduates provide across the region.�

For more information about the Joanne and William Conway Nursing Scholarship or Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»­â€™s nursing programs, visit .

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The event will take place on Wednesday, April 15, at 7 p.m. in the Dion Center, located at 16 Clement Street in Nashua.

Schachter will highlight the musical contributions of Eric Vogel, a trumpeter and founder of the Ghetto Swingers jazz band, and Rafael Schächter, a pianist and conductor who led inmates in performances of monumental works, including Verdi’s Requiem.

Following a question-and-answer session, a candle lighting ceremony will be held in remembrance of Holocaust victims. The Nashua Community Interfaith Choir will perform during the observance.

The event is free and open to the public.

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Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»­ has been recognized as a 2026-2027 Military Friendly® School, earning Silver designation, and as a 2026–2027 Military Spouse Friendly® School, underscoring the University’s commitment to supporting veterans, active-duty service members, and their families in their pursuit of higher education.

Institutions receiving the were evaluated using both public data sources and responses to a proprietary survey. More than 3,200 organizations participated in this year’s survey. Final ratings were based on a combination of survey results, publicly available data, and an assessment of each institution’s performance in key areas, including recruitment, retention, academic progress, graduation rates, career outcomes, and support services for veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses.

At Rivier, military-connected students receive personalized support throughout the admissions, enrollment, financial aid, and Veterans Affairs benefits processes. The University also recognizes prior military training and accepts transfer credit through CLEP, ACE, DANTES, and the National Credit Recommendation Service, helping students maximize their earned benefits and accelerate degree completion.

“Rivier is proud to support members of the military community as they pursue their educational and professional goals,� says Ricky Mott, Vice President for Enrollment Management. “These designations reflect our continued commitment to providing accessible, high-quality academic programs and individualized support that empower veterans and military families to succeed.�

Rivier offers in-demand academic programs at the undergraduate, professional studies, graduate, and doctoral levels, preparing students for careers in growing industries. With flexible online and on-campus options, military-connected students can pursue an engaging, hands-on education with close faculty support.

“Members of the military bring discipline, leadership, and real-world perspective to the classroom, and those qualities enrich the Rivier community,� says Trevor Hunt, Associate Registrar and Veterans Coordinator. “We are committed to making their transition into higher education as smooth as possible and ensuring they have the guidance and support needed to move forward with confidence.�

ABOUT MILITARY FRIENDLY: Military Friendly® is the standard that measures an organization’s commitment, effort, and success in creating sustainable and meaningful benefits for the military community. Over 3,200 organizations compete annually for the Military Friendly Schools® designation. Military Friendly® is a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business. Military Friendly® is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Department of Defense or the federal government. Results are produced via a rules-based algorithm. The data-driven Military Friendly® lists and methodology can be found at .

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Built on Rivier’s tradition in teacher education, the new program offers a focused, three-year pathway for students seeking an immersive educational experience while pursuing New Hampshire site-based licensure. Rooted in Rivier’s existing four-year elementary education program, the Applied B.A. reflects the University’s longstanding commitment to teacher preparation, training, and practice.

Rivier’s three-year degree options respond to student demand for cost-effective pathways to employment while upholding the University’s academic standards. In addition to the three-year programs in Artificial Intelligence, Business Management, and Criminal Justice announced in fall 2025, the new Elementary Education degree is offered in response to ongoing teacher shortages and the closure of elementary teacher preparation programs throughout the state.

“Each year, New Hampshire averages 399 job openings for elementary school teachers,â€� says Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President of Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»­. “Our three-year applied bachelor’s degree program in Elementary Education addresses the growing need for well-prepared educators by providing students with a direct, immersive pathway into the classroom while supporting school districts in meeting workforce demands.â€�

A hallmark of the program is its innovative collaboration with the Nashua (N.H.) School District. Through this model, students will complete an embedded practicum each semester in a Nashua-area elementary school, gaining exposure to workplace culture, curriculum development, social and cultural issues, and child-centered teaching practices. Students will also benefit from mentorship by experienced educators and a student teaching experience in their final semester.

“This collaboration provides future teachers with the authentic experiences they need while contributing real value to our schools,� says Dr. Mario Andrade, Superintendent of the Nashua School District. “Rivier’s applied Elementary Education program will strengthen our educator pipeline and reflects a shared commitment to providing Nashua students with the highest quality learning environments.�

Graduates of the program will have the opportunity to seek employment in a New Hampshire school district with a Statement of Eligibility leading to acceptance into a district’s on-site licensure program. The program is intended for students planning to pursue that pathway in the Granite State. Students seeking to work outside New Hampshire are encouraged to consult the Department of Education in their intended state regarding eligibility requirements before enrolling.

Consistent with Rivier’s other three-year applied bachelor’s degree programs, the Applied B.A. in Elementary Education enables students to complete their degree over six traditional fall and spring semesters rather than through year-round accelerated study. The 90-credit format streamlines general education requirements and focuses on essential coursework in the major while preserving the core elements of a Rivier education. Students enrolled in the program will engage fully in campus life and have access to academic support services, intercollegiate athletics, student resources,Ìý and career preparation opportunities.

Rivier will continue to offer its traditional four-year bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, and students enrolled in the three-year applied program may switch to the four-year bachelor’s degree program prior to graduation. In addition, the University offers a 3+1 pathway through which students may continue into the M.Ed. in Education Studies, earning a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in just four years.

For more information about Rivier’s Applied B.A. in Elementary Education and the University’s three-year applied bachelor’s degree options, visit rivier.edu/degreein3.

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Featuring two artworks of varying media presented side by side, and introducing a new pairing each week, the exhibition encourages visitors to pause and engage more deeply, fostering a richer appreciation of the art directly in front of them.

Drawing primarily from the University’s permanent collection, the exhibition welcomes visitors with two striking works displayed at the center of the gallery. Three thoughtfully arranged chairs invite guests to sit, reflect, and spend meaningful time with the pieces. A digital slideshow complements each weekly pairing, offering expanded context including artist biographies, insights into the creative process, and information on the techniques used to bring them to life.

In a space filled with art, even the most curious viewers can experience visual overload and skim the artworks too quickly. By presenting the collection in carefully curated segments over several weeks and providing insightful written commentary for personal reflection, The Art Gallery aims to cultivate a deeper understanding of each piece and the thoughtful dialogues that emerge between them.

“Pairings is inspired by a long-time estimate that the average time spent looking at a single artwork is 30 seconds,� says Sr. Theresa Couture, Gallery Director. “In response, The Art Gallery is experimenting with showing only two at a time, with the twosomes presented as deliberate, but not necessarily obvious, pairs.�

Whether connected by subject matter, medium, craftsmanship, style, purpose, history, or artistic insight, each pairing reveals how artworks can illuminate and enrich one another when placed in conversation.

For more information and exhibition updates, patrons are encouraged to visit The Art Gallery website at .

THE ART GALLERY AT RIVIER UNIVERSITY

Free and open to the public

Monday through Thursday | 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Groups wishing to attend at other times may do so by request (artgallery@rivier.edu, 603-897-8280)

Memorial Hall on the Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»­ campus

(Access by elevator and six low steps; entry at rear of building)

435 South Main St., Nashua, N.H.

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The 42,000-square-foot building, originally constructed in 1993, has been redesigned into a state-of-the-art learning environment for counseling, psychology, and education programs. The renovation includes expanded divisional office suites, computer-equipped classrooms, seminar rooms, and collaborative learning spaces.

Benoit Hall provides dedicated space for both the Division of Counseling and Psychology and the Division of Education and Leadership. Counseling simulation areas feature immersive technology that allows graduate and doctoral students to participate in realistic counseling scenarios and refine therapeutic techniques. These areas support both clinical and school-based counseling simulations through artificial intelligence and scenario-based learning.

Shortages of mental health workers, licensed clinical mental health counselors, and school psychologists have placed increasing strain on mental health services, education systems, and clinical support environments. The state also faces a growing need for professionals qualified to conduct assessments, psychotherapy, and educational testing, as well as a shortage of trained supervisors essential to developing the future workforce.

The completion of the Benoit Hall renovation represents a significant milestone in Rivier’s Go Boldly 2024–2030 strategic plan, affirming the University’s dedication to preparing the next generation of behavioral health professionals for clinical and school-based settings.

Among its more than 60 academic degree programs, the University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in counseling,Ìýpsychology, and education.

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She emphasized that the programs are a focused alternative designed for students who want to enter the workforce sooner while receiving the same core and major coursework, along with access to the full campus experience.

“Our programs attract students who have a sense of where their first career landing point will be,� says Sister Paula. “[The programs] really offer value to both families and students. These days, students are ever eager to join the workforce. And New Hampshire, we know, needs them desperately.�

Approved by the New England Commission of Higher Education and the New Hampshire Higher Education Commission, Rivier’s three-year applied bachelor’s degrees are designed to help students and families save one full year of tuition, room, board, and related expenses while accelerating career readiness.

Sister Paula also addressed broader higher education trends, including workforce demands, international enrollment challenges, and the demographic shifts affecting colleges and universities nationwide, while reaffirming the enduring value of a strong educational foundation that includes the humanities, social sciences, and liberal arts.

To view the interview in its entirety, visit or click the thumbnail image above.

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“Our Forensic Science program reflects Rivier’s commitment to preparing students for the future of work and service,� says Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President. “Rapid innovation across scientific and technological disciplines is reshaping the landscape of modern forensic work, and this program ensures our graduates are ready to meet those emerging needs.�

According to the , employment for forensic science technicians is projected to grow 13 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. As technological advancements in genomics, digital forensics, chemical analysis, and artificial intelligence accelerate, Rivier’s forensic science program incorporates these developments to prepare graduates for roles in crime laboratories, cybersecurity, and investigative agencies.

Students will gain hands-on experience through laboratory coursework, case-based learning, and simulations of real-world forensic investigations, all supported by Rivier’s Science and Innovation Center, which features interactive labs, problem-solving tools and equipment, technology-enhanced classrooms, and collaborative spaces for research and innovation.

“As forensic technologies continue to evolve, the demand for graduates with strong scientific and ethical competencies will only grow,� says Dr. Paula Williams, Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Through immersive laboratory work, experiential learning, and a curriculum rooted in scientific rigor and moral reasoning, we will prepare graduates to pursue truth, uphold justice, and contribute meaningfully to the safety of our society.�

In addition to its new forensic science program, Rivier offers Bachelor of Science degrees in biology and biotechnology. Rivier has also recently introduced undergraduate programs in Applied Exercise Science, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, and Environmental Studies and Sustainability.

Applications for the new program are now being accepted, with on-campus courses beginning this fall. Interested students are encouraged to request from the Office of Undergraduate Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»­.

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Rivier also earned recognition for its Adult Gerontology–Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s Certificate, which ranked fourth statewide, as well as its online MSN programs, which ranked fifth overall in New Hampshire. The ranked MSN programs include the AG-ACNP, as well as the Leadership in Health Systems Management degree offering.

“Our nursing programs continue to be recognized for their academic excellence and mission-driven approach,� says Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President. “Through our AG-ACNP program, Rivier equips students with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to make a meaningful impact in healthcare, particularly in meeting the needs of our aging population.�

In addition to statewide recognition, RegisteredNursing.org ranked Rivier’s AG-ACNP MSN program sixth nationally among online nurse practitioner programs. The ranking cited the program’s multiple entry pathways for registered nurses and its strong preparation for AG-ACNP certification.

Adult Gerontology–Acute Care Nurse Practitioners provide care for patients ages 17 and older, delivering long-term treatment for acute and chronic health conditions. These nurse practitioners assess patient health, order and interpret diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and develop and manage comprehensive treatment plans.

“Nurse practitioners are the ,� says Dr. Paula Williams, Dean of the Division of Nursing and Health Professions and Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Our AG-ACNP programs help registered nurses advance their careers while driving improvements in patient care and the healthcare system at large.�

Named the No. 1 nursing school in New Hampshire by Nursing Schools Almanac, Rivier is home to a state-of-the-art Nursing Simulation and Clinical Education Center. Renovated in 2022, the 17,825-square-foot facility provides immersive, hands-on learning through advanced simulation laboratories equipped with the latest technology for clinical assessment, community nursing, and telehealth education.

RegisteredNursing.org rankings are based on data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Postsecondary Education (OPE), and the Council for Community and Economic Research. Institutions are evaluated using a multi-factor methodology that includes acceptance and graduation rates, nursing faculty tenure, tuition and fees relative to cost of living, and other key metrics.

Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»­ offers ACEN-accredited nursing programs on campus and online, spanning from the associate through doctoral levels. To learn more, explore Rivier’s comprehensive nursing program offerings.

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