A Letter From The President

As I reflect on the first half year or so I’ve spent in office, the overwhelming emotion I feel is gratitude. I’m thankful for the work I have the privilege to do every day, leading the smartest, most passionate team in higher education. I’m in awe of our students and all the ways they embrace their educational experiences to reach their goals. I’m grateful to our alumni and partners for the generous community we’ve built together, inspiring a world in which learning is a transformative experience driving social mobility and meaningful, equitable outcomes for all.

Empowering Our Learners

At SNHU, we empower our students to transform their lives by providing access to workforce-relevant learning experiences and outstanding support, from academic advising to accessibility services, world-class library resources and services, meaningful student life and leadership development opportunities, and so much more. Every single faculty and staff member is dedicated to cultivating a constellation of support for our learners as they pursue their academic programs.

Lisa Marsh Ryerson with grad Nicky Nieves ’25G smiling for a photo while wearing medals and cap and gowns

President Ryerson celebrating at Fall Commencement with grad Nicky Nieves ’25G, two-time paralympic gold-medalist.

As a first-generation college graduate myself, I’m especially proud of the work we do to support first-generation learners, and all learners who may face barriers to pursuing their education. Initiatives like our AI-powered chatbot Penny, which started with a small pilot and now benefits all learners with engaging student support resources, are a testament to the many ways we innovate and integrate thoughtful improvements to the student experience.

Last fall, SNHU and the Center for Higher Education Policy and Practice (CHEPP) hosted New Hampshire leaders in higher education and politics and representatives from our local community-based organizations to advocate for sustainable access to food, housing, and transportation for students. No student should have to choose between buying food for their family or staying enrolled in higher education. We know if they stay enrolled and complete their degree, they will have better opportunities to experience economic safety and mobility for themselves and their families. Together with CHEPP, we will continue to advocate for more support at the federal level.

Group photo of veterans in front of helicopter

Veterans visiting campus as part of Heroes Day 2024 in November. Left to right: Wayne Nelson, Ray Goulet, Danielle Stanton, Bob Blais, Jean Gosselin, President Ryerson

Celebrating Together

Throughout the summer and fall, I traveled across the country to host “SNHU to You” events, bringing together local alumni, students, and employees for fun and memorable events. It’s so important to me to be able to connect with members of our community near and far, and these celebrations have been a wonderful way to see so many of you.

Homecoming last October was truly a celebration of the SNHU spirit, bringing together our incredible community of learners, alumni, faculty, staff, families, supporters, and friends to celebrate and share stories of SNHU’s impact across generations. I hope you’ll save the date for Homecoming 2025: Oct. 17-19, for virtual and in-person festivities.

In November, I had the honor of presiding over my first Commencement as President—and our 95th as an institution. We welcomed graduates from all 50 states and 58 countries to the SNHU Arena in Manchester, NH, and awarded an astounding 3,500 associate degrees, 17,200 bachelor’s degrees, 5,600 master’s degrees, and 11 doctoral degrees over the course of this Commencement weekend. I had the pleasure of spending time with many of our graduates, and I hope you’ll read some of their stories on these pages. I’m proud of their accomplishments and excited for them as they join our alumni community.

two women hugging and smiling for a photo

Sharing hugs and stories is a hallmark of mingling with President Ryerson.

Reflecting on Leadership

In January, the SNHU community mourned the passing of Ed Shapiro, a visionary leader and former SNHU president. His parents founded this institution in 1932, and Ed dedicated his life to education and was instrumental in shaping SNHU’s transformation from New Hampshire College to the thriving, academically focused university we are today. Ed helped to build our MBA and other graduate programs; forged our military partnerships; and focused on creating a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming campus community. As we continue to serve military students, international students on campus and at centers around the world, and indeed every student both in person and online, I’m grateful for his vision for the school and the dedication to students that Ed so passionately embodied. As the sixth president of SNHU, I’m conscious of the foundation built by my predecessors, and I am honored to carry their legacy of service forward.

Looking Forward

In the coming year, SNHU will continue to focus on providing equitable access to affordable learning; supporting all learners to persist, succeed, and achieve their goals; and fostering a community where belonging, equity, and care enable our people and our students to thrive. I’m looking forward to serving alongside many of you in our 10th annual Global Days of Service and seeing you at events near and far.

Thank you for the many ways you support SNHU students and serve in our generous community. I look forward to our shared work ahead!

With gratitude,

Lisa Marsh Ryerson
President

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