Academics change lives.
That’s the theme of this year’s Presidential Ambassadors Program at Fitchburg State University. The program fosters leadership development among students by providing unique opportunities to design and implement projects that strengthen communities.
The Presidential Ambassadors Showcase will take place on Thursday, Sept. 25, at the Hammond Hall Main Lounge from 4-5:30 p.m.
"This showcase is more than a celebration of student projects; it is a reflection of who we are as a university," President Donna Hodge said. "Our Presidential Ambassadors embody the momentum and mission of Fitchburg State. They take the lessons learned in the classroom and bring them to life through service, leadership, and innovation. Their work reminds us that education is not only about personal achievement, but also about building stronger communities and opening doors for those who will follow. I am proud of the example they set and grateful for the energy and vision they bring to our campus and beyond."
This event highlights the projects of President Hodge's Presidential Ambassadors, recognizes campus community contributions, and honors the transformative power of education.
“The Presidential Ambassador Program exemplifies who we are at Fitchburg State,” said Dr. Christine Dee, Professor of History and Special Assistant to the President, who will supervise the ambassadors this year. “We love to learn, to build, and to move forward. The ambassadors combine their academic interests with project management skills to enact positive, meaningful change. Dr. Hodge empowers all students at Fitchburg State to chart their own educational path. This program is an example of the student-focused opportunities the president has created at the university.”
This year’s Presidential Ambassadors are: Veronica Barton, Kole Broderick, Alexis DeSimone, Priscilla Fordjour, Geybrell Liriano, Sophia Moore, Sydney-Amelia Nortelus, Peter J. Norton, Alexis Sandmann, Reshawn Stewart, Aidan Thompson, Matthew Gill and Julia Arena.
Arena and Gill are returning Presidential Ambassadors.
“We are excited to work with these talented and diverse students,” said Dee. “Together, they are a powerful team that serves our campus with distinction.”
At the State of the University Address to kick off the start of the year, President Hodge honored this year’s group of Presidential Ambassadors, who are bold representatives of the university’s spirit, service, and momentum, with green blazers. The Ambassadors volunteer at high-level campus and community events, they meet alumni and legislators, and they tour special guests around campus. They do it all with poise, humility, and a deep love for Fitchburg State.
“These students represent the best of who we are and the best of where we’re going,” Hodge said.