Notable Alumni of Franklin Pierce University
Franklin Pierce University, a private institution in Rindge, New Hampshire, has a history rooted in providing diverse educational opportunities. Established in 1962 as Franklin Pierce College, the institution gained university status in 2007. Accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), it has grown into a comprehensive university with a strong emphasis on liberal arts, sciences, and professional programs. Over the years, Franklin Pierce has produced a number of notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. This article aims to highlight some of these individuals and their achievements.
A Brief History of Franklin Pierce University
Founded by Frank S., Franklin Pierce University opened its doors in the winter of 1963 with just under 100 students and six full-time professors. The initial campus consisted of four older buildings: the Manor, Rindge Hall, the White House, and Ravencroft Theatre. In 1964, Crestview Hall was built to accommodate the growing student body, which had reached 150.
Throughout the 1960s, the campus expanded with the construction of Monadnock Hall, Edgewood, Granite Hall, New Hampshire Hall, and Mt. Washington Hall. A library/resource center was completed in 1969, providing a much-needed academic hub. In 1971, Marcucella Hall was built for classrooms.
The university faced financial challenges in the 1970s, but by the early 1980s, it was ready for expansion. The Emily Flint Campus Center was built in 1986, providing a central location for student activities, dining, and the bookstore. Apartment-type residences called Mountainview were added in 1988.
In 1995, Walter Peterson stepped down as president, and George Haggerty took over. That year, the North Fields Activity Center, also known as "the Bubble," was built, and Crestview was converted into strictly classroom buildings. In 1998, Cheshire Hall was built with suite-style housing and apartment-style housing.
Read also: The Legacy of Franklin & Marshall Alumni
In 2007, the college gained university status and was renamed Franklin Pierce University. In 2008, Petrocelli Hall was built in place of the White House. James F. Birge became the university's fourth president in 2009. In 2012, the university welcomed its largest freshman class in 50 years.
Andrew H. Card began his tenure as the fifth president in December 2014. In 2015, Ravencroft Theatre and Crestview Hall were demolished. Kim Mooney has been president of Franklin Pierce University since 2016.
Notable Alumni in Various Fields
Franklin Pierce University has a diverse alumni base with graduates making significant impacts across various sectors. Here are some notable alumni:
Arts and Entertainment
Temple Grandin: While the provided text only lists her name, Temple Grandin is a well-known figure in the autism community, an animal behaviorist, and a consultant to the livestock industry. She is also a prolific author and speaker.
Henry Simmons: Although the provided text only lists his name, Henry Simmons is an actor known for his roles in television shows such as "NYPD Blue" and "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D."
Read also: Alumni Impact: Franklin University & Franklin College
Athletics
Steve Hathaway: Steve Hathaway was the first former Raven to make it to the major leagues.
Kevin McGowan: Kevin McGowan was a three-year member of the Franklin Pierce pitching staff. He was drafted by the Mets in the 13th round (386 overall) in the 2013 MLB Draft.
Johannah Leedham: While the provided text only lists her name, Johannah Leedham is a professional basketball player.
Minna Mustonen: While the provided text only lists her name, Minna Mustonen is a professional ice hockey player.
Cece Telfer: While the provided text only lists her name, Cece Telfer is a track and field athlete.
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Devin Sheehan: While the provided text only lists his name, Devin Sheehan is a professional baseball player.
Other Notable Alumni
- Kenneth M.:
- Normand A.:
- DionJoan R.:
- Jean St.:
- Wheeler MerriamClifford ColesBlanche St.:
- Bob St.:
- Brian P.:
- Arthur W.:
- Nicole A.:
- Paul M.:
- Al Marulli:
- Dave T.:
- Clarisse A.:
- Robert S.:
- Loel L.:
- Saul M.:
- Raymond G.:
- Stephen M.:
The Frank S. DiPietro Alumni Award
Created at the start of Franklin Pierce University’s 50th Anniversary in 2012, The Frank S. DiPietro Alumni Award represents and honors alumni contributions to their field. This new award represents and honors alumni contributions to their field.
The Legacy of Leadership: Franklin Pierce University Presidents
The presidents of Franklin Pierce University have played pivotal roles in shaping the institution's identity and direction. Their leadership has been instrumental in the university's growth, academic achievements, and community engagement.
Dr. Frank S. DiPietro: The Founder
Dr. Frank S. DiPietro was the founder and first president of Franklin Pierce. Dr. DiPietro was the founder and first president of Franklin Pierce College.
Hon. Walter R. Peterson: Guiding Through Financial Distress
The Honorable Walter R. Peterson took over as college president in 1975.
Dr. George J. Hagerty: Transition to University Status
Dr. George J. Hagerty was Franklin Pierce’s third president. Under Dr. Hagerty’s leadership, the institution transitioned from a college to recognition as a university in 2007.
Dr. James F. Birge: Enhancing Academics
Dr. James F. Birge became the university's fourth president in 2009.
Hon. Andrew H. Card: Strategic Vision
Andrew H. Card began his tenure as the fifth president of Franklin Pierce University in December 2014.
Dr. Kim Mooney: The First Alumna President
Dr. Kim Mooney has been president of Franklin Pierce University since 2016. Dr. Mooney is the first alumna to serve in the role.
Dr. Peter A. Eden: Current President
Dr. Peter A. Eden is the current president.
Campus and Facilities
Franklin Pierce's main academic buildings include Petrocelli Hall, Marcucella Hall, the Fitzwater Center, the Pappas Center, Monadnock Hall, Cheney Hall, and the Yvonne S. Boice Performing Arts Center. The Grimshay-Gudewik Activity Center at Northfields or "The Bubble" is the hub of the university's Campus Recreation program.
Franklin Pierce currently houses all on-campus students in a variety of residence halls, from large dormitory-style to apartment-style living.
Athletics
Franklin Pierce offers 24 varsity sports.
Media Outlets
All the media outlets are a part of the Marlin Fitzwater Center for Communication. Franklin Pierce University holds an FCC broadcast license for WFPC-LP, The Talon 105.3 FM. FPTV 25 offers both student-created content and studio-produced feature-length films. The Pierce Arrow is the student newspaper and oldest student group on campus.
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