Saint Anselm students engaged in leadership roles in the Kevin B. Harrington Student Ambassador Program at the New Hampshire Institute of Politics filled the Fall Semester with a wide array of events designed to get their fellow Anselmians involved in political life.
Student-led initiatives were chronicled by the NHIOP Communications Committee, led by Co-Chairs Martina Straka ’27 and Jocelyn Green ’28.
September
Voter Registration Day
On September 15, Saint Anselm Students got to cool off with Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream and learn how to voice their vote. The Civic Engagement Committee’s voter registration drive was a huge success. About 100 students stopped by JOA quad over a few hours to talk to Goffstown, NH state representatives, learn about voter registration, and see what states other students have voted in. It was a great few hours for the Ambassador program to help their peers learn how to make a difference in New Hampshire, and the nation!
EJ Crisci ’28
Cupcakes and Constitutions
On September 17, the Ambassador program recognized the 238th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution. Students were encouraged to take a cupcake and a pocket constitution, encouraging the idea of “democracy in your pocket!”
Martina Straka ’27
Governor Ayotte and the New England Council Breakfast
On the morning of September 25, the New Hampshire Institute of Politics welcomed New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte to the Institute, to address the New England Council. Several of our ambassadors went to help the Governor prepare for this big event. Governor Ayotte emphasizes in her speech working on strengthening New Hampshire’s Economy, improving childcare, and providing tax credits for New Hampshire Businesses.
Jocelyn Green ’28
October
Pizza and Politics with Maura Sullivan
On October 22, students were thrilled to welcome Maura Sullivan to the New Hampshire Institute of Politics for an engaging discussion on her bid as a Democrat for NH’s first congressional district. A former Marine who served in Iraq, in addition to being an official at the Pentagon during the Obama administration, Sullivan brought years of expertise to the discussion. Students engaged in thoughtful conversation with the candidate over a number of issues, including how to address the housing crisis, deadlock in Congress, and how her years of experience in the military would be a major asset to navigating both Pentagon defense spending and gun regulations alike. We extend our thanks to Maura for stopping by and partaking in a great discussion!
Merritt Lessieur ’28
First Amendment Award Event with Former National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan
On September 23, the Nackey S. Loeb School of Communications celebrated its 2025 First Amendment Award Event at the Institute. Jake Sullivan, of the Harvard Kennedy School and former national security advisor, delivered an address honoring this year’s recipients: Sean Young, owner of Leavitt’s Country Bakery in Conway, was recognized for standing up for free expression after a student-painted mural was challenged in court, and Melanie Plenda, executive director of the Granite State News Collaborative, who promotes local journalism across New Hampshire.
Martina Straka ’27
Fall Open House
It was a charming, brisk fall morning for the open house, and potential incoming students were greeted by the Institute’s Director, Neil Levesque, admissions staff, and student ambassadors. During the introduction presentations in the auditorium, students were informed of the unique opportunities, networking, and professional growth offered at the New Hampshire Institute of Politics. While on tours, students saw the rich history of the Institute’s archives while also learning about the Institute’s philosophy of a universal, non-partisan, and unbiased platform for national politics. According to Neil Levesque, “this open house was one of our best yet.”
Samuel Marcotte ’27
Pizza and Politics with Stefany Shaheen
Pizza and Politics continued with great turnout on October 29, when the Civic Engagement Committee hosted Stefany Shaheen. She talked about her campaign for NH-01, and what motivated her to get involved in public service. Ambassadors asked her about her approach to healthcare, housing reform, energy costs, working across the aisle, and more topics. She ended the event by explaining how hopeful she was for young people like the students in the ambassador program, and her hopes for the future as our generation gets more involved in politics.
EJ Crisci ’28
November
Stand Up New Hampshire Town Hall with U.S. Senator Chris Murphy
On Wednesday, November 12, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut joined us in the NHIOP Auditorium for a “Stand Up New Hampshire” event. This included a meet & greet for New Hampshire voters and students alike to meet the Senator. Then following that, a town hall took place where Senator Murphy answered questions from the audience provided by Politico Reporter Kelly Garritty. Events such as these are what make the NHIOP such an important place, providing amazing opportunities for all of the student ambassadors.
Jocelyn Green ’28
Stand Up New Hampshire Town Hall with U.S. Senator Cory Booker
U.S. Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey joined Granite State voters for the “Stand Up New Hampshire” town hall to discuss national issues and the political importance of New Hampshire. Booker is known for his engaging speaking style and his historic filibuster, and he highlighted the need for hope in the future and civic responsibility.
Zachary Coulson ’26
Pizza and Politics with Scott Spradling
On November 5th, Saint Anselm students happily welcomed Scott Spradling to the Institute of Politics for Pizza and Politics. Spradling first graduated Syracuse University with a degree in journalism and followed his career to radio. After 3 years in the industry, Scott joined WMUR as a political journalist. In doing so, Spradling had much experience at Saint Anselm College anchoring debates. Spradling shared his experience during the 2008 primary debates between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama on the Hilltop. Currently, Spradling is working in PR and crisis communications. The discussion furthered into recent news regarding the 2025 mayoral election in New York and the predictions of the democratic socialist party. Lastly, students shared input on political dialogue being used today and how they differ from 20 years ago.
Sophia Kenvin ’28
Dress to Impress: Dress Codes, Style, and Formal Events
At the New Hampshire Institute of Politics, Co-Chairs Conor, Lauren, and Owen discussed the importance of dress codes and first impressions. They informed students about affordable stores at which we could find formal attire to elevate our professional image.
Amelia Hansen ’28
Pizza and Politics with Christian Urrutia
Congressional candidate Christian Urrutia visited the New Hampshire Institute of Politics for “Pizza and Politics,” an ambassador-led program where he discussed his background, answered student questions, and explained his policies for his campaign. Urrutia delved into his experience as a U.S. Army and National Guard serviceman, an attorney both in international and human rights law, and as Special Counsel at the Pentagon. Through discussion and question answering, Urrutia explained some points to his campaign, which include Medicare for all, affordable housing, protecting the rule of law, and standing up to the Trump Administration.
Samuel Marcotte ’27