The people of Henniker are very proud and protective of the fact that it’s the only Henniker on Earth. But it’s no longer the only place on Earth where New England College students can go to get their learning done.
NEC opened a Concord site at 62 N. Main St. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday evening, ushering in a new era for both the college and the capital city. But what does it all mean for you?
Well, more cool stuff. NEC plans to teach people things in the space, of course, but it also intends to host community events like poetry readings, community workshops and potentially even small musical events (NEC President Michele Perkins hinted at as much during the opening, at least.) In short, it’s another outlet for creative expression in Concord. How can you argue with that?
You can’t, according to Wayne Lesperance, a professor of political science at NEC, who was excited about the opportunity when asked why the school selected a space in Concord.
“Because you’re about 200 yards from the State House and everything around it,” he said. “To have the state capitol so close by creates incredible opportunities for our students and our college.”
Though the star of the opening reception was clearly the tasty tray of various cheeses, the event also featured the likes of Perkins and state Sen. Sylvia Larsen, who made brief remarks in front of an enthusiastic crowd.
Keep your eyes open for similar crowds at upcoming community events, and duck your head in to say hello.
