Observer Department: News


Students put faith in NECC

Students and faculty put their faith in NECC. They look to NECC for a safe campus and secure data protection, but specifically, air clear from airborne particles such as viral aerosols, mold and wildfire smoke. Dez Kelly, Liberal Arts major at NECC, speaks of community care and grassroots organization. But,…


Older students find opportunities at NECC

Older adults are returning to school at NECC this fall to further their education. Most students begin their college career shortly after high school.  However, many others choose to return in later stages of life. This could be for one of many reasons. It could be for better job opportunities,…


Julia Alvarez visits

Northern Essex Community College has begun the year with an appreciative and beneficial event, “Literature, Legacy, Community. An Evening with Julia Alvarez.” Sponsored by the White Fund and hosted by NECC’s Vice President Naydeen Gonzalez-De Jesus along with some staff members, the event took place on the Lawrence Campus during…

Four people standing on a stage smiling.


AI experts meet students

The first AI Panel Event in NECC was held on April 16, and it gathered staff, students and faculty in the Lecture Hall, all of them curious to ask questions about AI, artificial intelligence. Five panelists from different industries, using AI at their workplace, shared their experience and insights about…

A group of people stand in a line in front of a sign.


Students share views at open forum

Monday afternoon proved fruitful for members of the Student Affairs Committee, as they held an open student forum where members of both campuses shared their experiences, questions, and concerns with the current state of Northern Essex Community College in a town-hall style online meeting. Hosted on the afternoon of April…


Observer staff win NENPA awards

Student journalists from the NECC Observer recently won awards from The New England Newspaper and Press Association in the college division of the Better Newspaper competition. Shaun Hood of Groveland and Observer correspondents received a first place award for best arts and entertainment section and former Observer Editor-in-Chief/Opinion Editor Kim…

A man holds an award plaque and smiles


NECC alumni named to national board

The YMCA of the USA (Y-USA) has welcomed new national board members, including NECC alumni Nayeli Almanzar Lizardo, who has been named  to the Youth Advisory Council.  Nationwide, only 3.8% of YMCA board members are under the age of 30. As a youth-serving organization, the Y has the opportunity to…

A woman's face smiling


Reflecting on Hurricane Maria: Many people still feel storm’s impact in their lives

Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic were both hit by Hurricane Maria in 2017 -- the storm continues to affect how some people live now and created a traumatic situation.  Today I will share the reflections of who told me about their experiences and a little about how they live…


Open mic night brings Lawrence community together

On the 20th of February, an open mic was held at El taller & Cafe Azteca, hosted by Sebastian Navedo (also known as Bigman) and ISHA! Known for its calm vibes and delicious food, El Taller also hosts open mics.  El Taller is a place where many artists and other…


Trump proposes to defund Dept. of Education

Plans spark nationwide concern from students, parents and teachers In a surprising move that has left many Americans baffled, Donald Trump has announced his plan to defund the Department of Education, a decision that could have far-reaching implications for students, parents, teachers, and professionals across the nation. CNBC reports that…