Spring 2025 Recap: NHIOP Highlights Civic Engagement and Leadership

This semester was undoubtedly a time of change and new beginnings, as the nation welcomed a new presidential administration, and New Hampshire inaugurated a new governor in Concord. Amidst these transitions, the New Hampshire Institute of Politics (NHIOP) had a front-row seat, closely observing and analyzing current events both locally and globally. Our Kevin B. Harrington Student Ambassadors, along with faculty and staff, engaged in meaningful dialogue and research to further civic engagement on campus.

Here are highlights from our accomplishments in the first five months of 2025:

January:

On January 28, Jade Adams, a fifth grader from Harrisville, was sworn in as the eighth New Hampshire Kid Governor. The inauguration ceremony took place at the New Hampshire State House and included remarks from Governor Kelly Ayotte, Secretary of State Dave Scanlon, and Institute Executive Director Neil Levesque. Supreme Court Chief Justice Gordon MacDonald also administered the oath of office to six newly elected Kid Executive Councilors, who will work with the Kid Governor.

Hannah Pavletich ’27, a Kevin B. Harrington Student Ambassador, noted that the inauguration ceremony demonstrated what young people are capable of when they put their minds to something. She added, “The event also highlighted how willing politicians are to work with young students to make New Hampshire a better place.”

February:

Kicking off the month of February, the Kevin B. Harrington Student Ambassador Program welcomed 37 new members to join its long-standing group of student leaders. Throughout the spring semester, this incoming cohort learned how to serve as official representatives of the NHIOP and joined one of four committees focused on specific aspects of the Institute’s work.

The onboarding program was coordinated by Outreach and Development Co-Chairs Lauren Blois ‘26 and Beau Manzi ‘27 who organized and planned the entire day for the new ambassadors. Additionally, they launched a new mentorship program designed to create a greater sense of community.

Later in the month, on February 27, the Institute hosted more than 95 Scouts of America for a day of exploring government and civics. Student Ambassadors led sessions on civic engagement, political history, journalism, and more. The Scouts gained valuable insights into becoming active civic stewards and earned over 100 merit badges in the process.

“It was great seeing younger Scouts engage in meaningful discussions on equality, freedom, global cooperation, and civic rights,” said Giles Bean ’28, politics major and Eagle Scout. “Every Scout who participated is well on their way to becoming the torchbearers of society.”

March:

March was a busy month, with many high-profile visitors in the Institute. On March 12th, the Institute hosted a sold-out conversation with author Heather Cox Richardson, professor of history at Boston College, about her latest book “Democracy Awakening.” Moderated by politics professor Peter B. Josephson, the event explored current events through the lens of American history and the state of democracy today. After the event, Richardson graciously stayed to meet students and sign books.

Politics major Meagan Lee ’28 greeted the audience and offered opening remarks. “As a Kevin B. Harrington Student Ambassador, I had the honor to introduce Dr. Richardson and to speak with her backstage. Her wisdom and insightfulness encouraged many in the room to continue to stay informed and actively involved in their respective capacities.” Lee continued, “The phenomenal discussion gave me a sense of hope and a call to action to remain civically engaged and not lose sight of what our nation was built upon.”

The 6th American Elections Academic Symposium, "American Elections 2024: Politics in Uncertain Times" was held on March 15th at and cosponsored by the NHIOP. The conference brought together 32 presenters from 25 colleges and universities, who examined the 2024 presidential election.

The Student Ambassadors also organized and planned three Pizza and Politics events during the month. Special guests included Manchester Mayor Jay Ruais, businessman Patrick Griffin who is the CEO and founding partner of Merrimack Potomac + Charles, and former N.H. Senator John Sununu.

Additionally, the ambassadors’ Events Committee hosted a Common Ground discussion focused on the separation of church and state. In collaboration with the Center for the Study of Religion and Public Life, the event centered on the First Amendment, religious liberty, and secularism. Students also explored the role of education and government regulation in balancing religion and public life.

Concluding the month, the Institute celebrated Women’s History Month with a discussion on March 27 with former U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young ‘86. Young served as the United States Attorney for the District of New Hampshire from May 2022 to January 2025. The event was moderated by Liana Pennington, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice.

Young shared her insights on justice and leadership, recounting stories from her distinguished legal career and highlighting some of her most memorable cases and investigations. She also reflected on how her Anselmian background shaped her professional values.

Throughout the event, Young offered valuable career advice, including the reminder, “However you climb the ladder is how you climb back down,” stressing the importance of treating others with respect and following the golden rule.

April:

On April 16th, the Institute hosted author Max Boot for a discussion on his latest book, “Reagan: His Life and Legend,” which was moderated by Drew Cline, president of the Josiah Bartlett Center for Public Policy.

Boot shared insights from his ten-year research journey into Ronald Reagan’s life and legacy, highlighting Reagan as one of the most consequential presidents of the 20th century. Boot’s personal connection to Reagan and his desire to fill a gap in the literature inspired him to write the definitive biography. The event was sponsored in partnership with the World Affairs Council of New Hampshire.

At the end of April, the Institute had an impromptu visit from Congressman Wesley Hunt (R-TX) for a casual Q&A with students in the New Hampshire Political Library.
He shared stories from his military career, spoke about why he chose public service, and reflected on the highs and lows of past campaigns. It was a great opportunity for students to hear directly from a sitting member of Congress.

May:

As the academic year draws to a close, May is a busy time preparing for commencement and final exams. On May 7, the Institute honored graduating seniors and celebrated their many contributions over the past four years.

Kellan Barbee ’26 was recognized as the inaugural recipient of the Catherine McLaughlin Award for Civic Leadership. This award will be presented annually to an NHIOP student who demonstrates a strong commitment to civic leadership, public service, and the betterment of others, reflecting the spirit and legacy of Catherine McLaughlin ’83.

Each graduating Ambassador received a commemorative lapel pin, and special recognition was given to Ambassador Program Co-Chair Ellie Duffin for receiving the Coleman Service Award.

Additionally, politics majors Kyla Prussman ’25, Ellie Duffin ’25, Rosabella Daraoui ’25, Grace Blais ’25, Christine Landry ’25, Rachel Romero ’25, and Benjamin Svendsen ’25 were honored for earning high passes on their senior theses.

With the semester coming to an end, the Institute thanks the college and local community for their continued partnership, which plays a vital role in advancing our mission of promoting democracy and civic engagement. We also appreciate our student ambassadors for their efforts in planning and organizing events. Stay tuned for updates on our fall programming!