KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Keene State College conferred degrees on 617 undergraduate and graduate students during its 2025 commencement ceremony Saturday, as rain clouds cleared just in time for the event on the Fiske Quad.

The ceremony marked the culmination of the academic year, with graduates walking the stage despite lingering puddles and damp seating. Among them were 19 nursing students recognized Friday at a Pinning Ceremony, and 50 honors graduates acknowledged at a separate convocation for academic distinction, according to a news release.

Founded in 1909, Keene State is part of the University System of New Hampshire and offers more than 40 undergraduate majors, along with graduate and post-master’s programs rooted in the liberal arts.

During the ceremony, faculty and college leaders encouraged graduates to embrace change and strive for innovation.

Physics professor Sarah McGregor, named Alumni Association Distinguished Teacher of the Year, urged students to challenge the status quo and create positive ripples in their communities. College President Melinda Treadwell emphasized the importance of living meaningfully and using their skills and energy to benefit others, the release said.

The ceremony also included special recognitions. David Wenhold, a 1990 graduate known for his philanthropic and government relations work, received an honorary Doctor of Letters degree. Best-selling author Jodi Picoult was honored with the Granite State Award for her literary achievements and advocacy. Political science major Jacob Favolise was presented with the Leo F. Redfern Outstanding Citizenship Award for his leadership in student government and his historic election to the Keene City Council.

Graduates are now preparing to move on to careers and further studies. Nursing graduate Jessica Barrett of Hooksett will join the neonatal ICU at Dartmouth-Hitchcock in Lebanon, while dance major Alex Walton of Goffstown plans to audition for professional dance opportunities in Boston. Victoria Young of Newport, Vermont, who earned a music performance degree and received a national scholar award, intends to pursue a master’s degree in music theory and a teaching career.

The event marked a significant milestone for Keene State and its newest alumni, who are poised to begin their next chapters across a variety of fields.