Rivier University honors achievements of graduates at 2026 Commencement

The ceremony highlighted the accomplishments of the Class of 2026, and the University honored the New Hampshire Tech Alliance in recognition of its service to the people of New Hampshire and its leadership in strengthening the state’s technology and innovation economy.

Julie Demers, MPA, Executive Director, served as Commencement speaker and received an honorary degree on behalf of the organization, whose leadership reflects a strong commitment to nurturing a vibrant technology ecosystem in New Hampshire through partnerships, knowledge-sharing, and public policy engagement.

Rivier conferred the degree of Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, upon the NH Tech Alliance in recognition of its commitment to innovation, leadership, and service. The University also recognized the leadership of the Tech Alliance’s Board of Directors for advancing values that reflect Rivier’s Latin motto, Altiora et Meliora—higher and better.

“Rivier University is honored to recognize the mission and vision of the NH Tech Alliance connecting a vibrant New Hampshire technology ecosystem with an engaged and skilled workforce through Rivier’s academic programs in artificial intelligence, computer science, cybersecurity, and information systems,” says Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President. “Rivier joins with the NH Tech Alliance in building signature partnerships in both teaching and learning and supporting a philosophy that New Hampshire can grow its own in meeting the needs of the technology industry.”

A strategic and collaborative leader, the NH Tech Alliance works to strengthen connections across industry, academia, and government, advancing initiatives that support innovation, workforce development, and long-term economic growth throughout the Granite State.

Additionally, the NH Tech Alliance has broadened both its reach and influence, growing its membership, expanding programming, and solidifying its role as a vital resource within the state’s technology sector. Its work reflects a clear focus on supporting companies at every stage of development, from emerging startups to well-established firms, by helping them access the capital, talent, and connections needed to succeed.

In her address, Demers reflected on the strength of Rivier’s tech-enabled campus, featuring its cybersecurity labs and nursing simulators, and the advantages of its location in a small state where direct access to leaders, decision-makers, and opportunity is both possible and impactful.

She encouraged graduates to embrace emerging technologies while remaining grounded in their authenticity, underscoring the importance of balancing innovation with humanity. Demers also noted that in a rapidly evolving world, it is essential to recognize how technology and human connections can coexist.

“The more advanced our technology becomes, the more valuable your humanity becomes,” Demers says. “We are entering a time where content can be generated instantly, where resumes can be optimized by algorithms, where conversations can be simulated, and ideas can be replicated. In a world where so much can be artificial, what becomes rare is what is real.”

Rivier students Erin E. Jasper (B.A. Psychology) and Yvonne Wu (MBA: Information Technology Management) welcomed their classmates on behalf of the undergraduate and graduate degree recipients. Jasper reflected on the shared effort, perseverance, and support that brought the Class of 2026 to Commencement, encouraging graduates to recognize the family, friends, faculty, and mentors who helped guide them along the way.

Wu spoke about the personal meaning of earning her MBA, describing it as the fulfillment of a childhood dream and a promise she has long carried. She acknowledged the challenges many graduates faced in reaching this milestone, the loved ones who supported them, and the faculty who helped shape their journey. Looking ahead, she encouraged the Class of 2026 to move forward with confidence, resilience, integrity, and purpose.

Pictured, from left to right: The Honorable Talesha Saint-Marc, Vice Chair, Rivier University Board of Trustees; Executive Director Julie Demers, New Hampshire Tech Alliance; President Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, Rivier University President