125 Whittier Tech Students Recognized at Early College Recognition Ceremony

Gabriella Ortiz, Whittier Tech senior studying marketing, addresses her peers as the student speaker during the Early College Program recognition ceremony at Northern Essex Community College. (Photo Courtesy Whittier Tech)

Superintendent Maureen Lynch congratulates the 125 Whittier Tech students who were recently honored for their participation in the Early College Program, held in partnership with Northern Essex Community College (NECC).

In March 2021, Whittier Tech and NECC were approved for an Early College Designation, which created a natural pipeline for Whittier juniors and seniors to obtain college credits at no cost. The program also helps offset the cost of a college education.

Students who begin the program in their junior year may earn up to 12 credits before graduation. Students who start in their senior year can earn up to six credits. Credits are recognized by all Massachusetts state colleges and universities, including NECC.

125 Whittier students were recognized during a ceremony at NECC's Haverhill campus on Thursday, May 16 for their completion of the program. 

Kenny Jimenez walks to receive his certificate. (Photo Courtesy Whittier Tech)

The ceremony included a welcome address by Aaron Altman, NECC's Associate Dean of PK12 Partnerships; a speech by alumni speaker Osaym Omar, Promise Scholar, NECC Class of 2025, Haverhill High School Class of 2023; remarks courtesy of Dr. Paul Beaudin, NECC Provost of Academic & Student Affairs; and thoughts from faculty speaker Dawn Wheaton, Program Coordinator, Health Professions Faculty, and Faculty Advisor.

"As all of us graduates come together this evening to reflect on our accomplishments, we can also recognize the perks that this program has offered us," said student speaker Gabriella Ortiz of Haverhill, a Whittier Tech senior studying marketing. "An invaluable and priceless benefit of taking Early College courses, is that we are able to get a real taste of what college will be like; we now know what it means to get assignments in on time, be independent, and learn the routine of a what it takes to be successful in college each semester. Although we may not have all had the same experience, we are all coming out with a great outcome."

Associate Dean Altman then awarded each participant a certificate. 

To view the list of honored students, click here. 

Nathaniel Shramko, left, and Christopher Brieva, right, at the ceremony. (Photo Courtesy Whittier Tech)

Whittier Tech staff in attendance included:

  • Superintendent Maureen Lynch

  • Principal/Asst. Superintendent Chris Laganas

  • Associate Principal Katrina Jensen

  • Director of Pupil Personnel Services Kristine Morrison

  • Coordinator of Curriculum and Staff Development Dr. Kelly Fay

  • Early College Program Manager Lindsey Crovetti 

  • Guidance Counselor and Concurrent Enrollment Liaison Rachael Rossi

  • Early College Support Teacher Chris Cunningham

  • Early College Support Teacher Deb Santos

From left, Jacob Kalil, Owen Brannelly, and Benjamin Noyes. (Photo Courtesy Whittier Tech)

"Congratulations to every student who completed our Early College Program this year," said Superintendent Lynch. "Each of you has demonstrated a strong work ethic, determination, and high ambition that will serve you well as you enter the world outside Whittier Tech."

Ethan Yagual-Issa and his mother at the ceremony. (Photo Courtesy Whittier Tech)

Deborah Santos