RINDGE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Franklin Pierce University awarded degrees to 460 graduates during its commencement ceremony held Saturday on the school’s campus. The event marked the first commencement presided over by university president Dr. Peter Eden, who took office last July.

The Class of 2025 was recognized alongside family members, faculty, staff, alumni, and members of the board of trustees, according to a news release. Degrees were conferred at the doctoral, master’s, bachelor’s, and associate levels.

During the ceremony, the university awarded an honorary doctoral degree posthumously to Frederick W. Pierce IV, former chair of Franklin Pierce’s board of trustees and a significant supporter of the institution. Pierce, who died in June 2024, was remembered for his leadership in student housing development and his long-standing commitment to higher education. His wife, Christine Pierce, and daughter, Riley, accepted the honor on his behalf.

The university also presented the Honorable Walter R. Peterson Citizen Leader Award to James T. McKim, Jr., a consultant and author known for his work on organizational performance and public policy. McKim holds leadership roles with the Episcopal Church’s National Executive Council Committee on Anti-Racism, New Hampshire Public Broadcasting, and other organizations.

Among the students recognized was valedictorian Rachel Strout of Bath, N.H. Strout, who earned dual majors in Secondary Education and English along with a mathematics minor and a leadership certificate, was active in student government, campus clubs, and the university’s dance and marching band programs. She plans to pursue a career as a high school English teacher.