The Lucille Jordan Commons comprises the wellness center, café and student life suite
Confetti filled the sky as Nashua Community College (NCC) unveiled the Lucille Jordan Commons on Monday, June 2 during a dedication ceremony with family members, community and state leaders, college faculty and staff and members of the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH) Comprised of the wellness center, café and student life suite, the Lucille Jordan Commons, adorned with a sign with her signature, honors the legacy of President Jordan who led NCC for 27 years until her passing in December of 2024.
Governor Kelly Ayotte spoke at the celebration, along with President Jordan’s son Sean, husband Jim O’Neill, CCSNH Chancellor Dr. Mark Rubinstein, Interim NCC President Alfred Williams and CCSNH Trustee and former Nashua Mayor, Donnalee Lozeau.
Governor Ayotte recalled meeting Jordan 22 years ago, when she worked for then-Governor Craig Benson. “Every governor since has known Lucille Jordan, and the value of this college.”
Governor Ayotte said Jordan’s work with local industry partners was a major benefit to students, citing the BAE Systems, Inc. partnership with NCC as one of many examples. “She helped students believe in themselves, and what they’re capable of; that is a special quality. The impact on this area, and the whole state is hard to describe. Her legacy will live on here forever.”
President Jordan shaped the college inside and out, overseeing a series of major renovations and expansions including the Walter R. Peterson Library, Precision Manufacturing addition, Automotive Building expansion that doubled the space, construction of the Gymnasium and Fitness Center, Judd Gregg Hall, and the BAE Systems, Inc. STEM Center.
Donnalee Lozeau emceed the event and recalled serving as Mayor of Nashua during Jordan’s tenure as NCC President, particularly her deep commitment to community and industry collaboration. “If you were a business in this community, and you needed something; it took one phone call.”
Jordan introduced academic and training programs to meet the demands of students and the local workforce such as Nursing, Honda Automotive Technology, Data Analytics, Nutrition and Wellness, Information Technology, Microelectronics and more.
“Her legacy is one of transformation. She was a fierce advocate, never afraid to stand up for her students,” said Williams.
Tears filled the room when her husband and son spoke.
“I remember her saying to me once – ‘Jim: Don’t settle.’ I think that captures Lucille. Everything she did, she wanted it to be the best it could be,” said O’Neill, emphasizing her focus in helping students.
“The biggest gift we could give Lucille is to continue the excellence here.”
President Jordan focused on the well-being and interests of students, and as part of her legacy; the Lucille Jordan Fund for NCC Students was established with The Foundation for New Hampshire Community Colleges for her 25th anniversary as NCC President to support students-in-need during their college journey.
To donate to the Lucille Jordan Fund for NCC Students, visit GiveNHCC.org/where-to-give/ncc.
About Nashua Community College
Since 1970, Nashua Community College has been successfully meeting the educational needs of Greater Nashua by delivering a high quality two-year, post-secondary education. The college partners closely with area industries and community organizations that provide students with a unique perspective in their fields of study, allowing for a real-world experience to further their academic journey. Students can choose from a variety of associate degree, certificate, and career training programs. Nashua Community College is a member of the Community College System of New Hampshire. The seven community colleges in the system are committed to working with businesses throughout the state to train and retain employees to develop a robust workforce across all sectors. Learn more at nashuacc.edu.
