Concord, N.H. (April 23, 2026) – On the evening Great Bay Community College (GBCC) celebrated its 80th anniversary, the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH) presented the 2026 Walter R. Peterson Award for Education and Public Service to the Stebbins family – combining a milestone in education in the Seacoast region with one of the state’s most meaningful recognitions of public service.
GBCC opened its doors in 1945 as the State Trade School Portsmouth at the Morley Button Factory. The goal was to teach new skills to veterans and adults returning to the workforce after World War II. Today the college plays a vital role in workforce development and community engagement across the Seacoast region.
“What makes Great Bay unique is our close connection with the Seacoast,” said Cheryl Lesser, president of GBCC. “We listen, adapt and respond to the needs of our region. Our partnerships with local businesses and industries are central to that work. Together we prepare students not just for jobs, but for meaningful careers that strengthen our local economy. As we celebrate 80 years, we also look ahead to the next 80 years, with gratitude for our past and excitement for our future.”
More than 200 people attended the event, including GBCC students, staff, alumni, business, civic and political leaders.
CCSNH Chancellor Dr. Mark Rubinstein welcomed Stebbins family members and highlighted the long-lasting impact of their service across the Granite State.
“The Stebbins family’s community service and engagement with New Hampshire spans decades and reflects both a genetic predisposition to be helpful, and an inspiring family ethic that is passed down from generation to generation,” said Dr. Rubinstein.
For decades, the Stebbins family has supported nonprofits across New Hampshire, pairing generosity with hands-on community service. Their giving has strengthened organizations focused on health and human services, youth and family programming, civic life and community development. The family’s philanthropy has emphasized opportunity and upward mobility, including their commitment to higher education that helps expand access for students, strengthen learning environments, and support institutional growth.
Dr. Rubinstein welcomed Alison Stebbins onto the stage, and her grandchildren joined her as the chancellor presented them with an original painting from GBCC student Autumn Richardson depicting a heron (the college mascot) and seascape.
“It’s really special for us to have our children and our grandchildren here tonight,” said Alison Stebbins. “It reminds us that this isn’t about what’s been done. It’s about what comes next. Our hope is simple – that our families, ours and yours, work together to keep the Walter Peterson tradition going in the New Hampshire way of helping one another. The Stebbins family is truly grateful for this honor. We accept it with appreciation and a commitment to continue doing our part together. And as you can see, across generations.”
The Walter R. Peterson Award presented by CCSNH and The Foundation for New Hampshire Community Colleges (The Foundation), recognizes individuals and families who reflect the late governor’s values, legacy of public service and commitment to higher education. Peterson served as New Hampshire governor from 1969-73 and remained a strong supporter of higher education throughout his life, including as a trustee of both CCSNH and the University System of New Hampshire.
Past recipients include former Governors John Lynch and Jeanne Shaheen, Barbara Couch of Hypertherm, Alex Ray of The Common Man, Paul Holloway of Holloway Motors, technology entrepreneur Jeremy Hitchcock and Tom Raffio of Northeast Delta Dental.
The Foundation provides greater access to educational opportunities through financial assistance for student scholarships, program development and facility enhancements across New Hampshire’s seven community colleges. It also seeks contributions from public and private sources to create scholarships and program partnerships that prepare students for in-demand jobs and help meet workforce needs.
