As the SNHU community prepares to bid farewell to President LeBlanc, we're compelled to celebrate his legacy in a meaningful and lasting way through the establishment of The President Paul J. LeBlanc First-Generation Scholarship Fund. This Fund will break down barriers to education, providing financial assistance for students who are the first in their families to pursue an undergraduate degree.
President LeBlanc has been a steadfast advocate for accessibility and inclusivity in higher education and is a first-generation graduate himself. He understands first-hand the opportunities that higher education can unlock. His unwavering commitment to empowering learners from all walks of life has not only enriched the fabric of our institution but has also made a lasting impact on all of higher education.
We want to empower first-generation students to become first-generation graduates, making meaningful change for themselves and their communities. Will you join us? Your generosity ensures that an affordable, quality education continues to be accessible and serves as a tribute to a visionary leader in higher education.
Huge thank you to the 278 donors who helped raise more than $215,000 to The President Paul J. LeBlanc First-Generation Scholarship Fund! A special thank you to the following sponsors:
- Alexander Technology Group
- Chegg
- Customer Analytics
- Ease Learning
- iDesign
- LearningMate
- MBS Direct
- NE Delta Dental
- Prosper XR
- SEI Boston
We’re thrilled to have you as part of our community of supporters and are deeply grateful for your commitment. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of our learners.
Like more than one-third of SNHU learners, Provost and incoming President Lisa Marsh Ryerson is a proud first-generation college student. Hear, in her own words, the path her life has taken and why she’s proud to support The President Paul J. LeBlanc First-Generation Scholarship Fund:
As we near President Paul LeBlanc's last day, we invite you to honor his 21 years of service with a gift to SNHU learners who are the first in the family to pursue an undergraduate degree. This fund will live on in Paul’s name, changing generational trajectories for individuals around the country and the globe. Every donation, regardless of size, will make a difference in the lives of our learners. Investing in education means investing in the future — ensuring that every aspiring student has the chance to achieve their dreams.
First-generation graduates Shunte Harrison '23 and Korey Harrison '23, celebrated the completion of their degrees this past fall by attending SNHU Commencement together. Though their collective journey was not easy, they cheered each other on every step of the way. Getting to the finish line was all the more exciting for the couple as they welcomed a baby boy on Shunte’s conferral date, which she described as “two blessings in one.” Starting a new chapter in their careers and as parents, the Harrisons hope to show their son that anything is possible, and inspire their families to follow in their footsteps. Investing in The President Paul J. LeBlanc First-Generation Scholarship Fund helps students like Shunte and Korey transform their family’s legacy. Change first-generation students’ lives and make your gift today.
278 days ago by Katherine DuganFirefighter. EMT. Mother. First-generation graduate. Tiare Hazen '23 embodies hard work and determination. Her SNHU journey began at age 19 while pregnant with her first child. Thanks to SNHU's online format, Tiare was able to go to school on her own schedule while managing work and a family. Now, 5 years later and a mother of 3, Tiare proudly walked across the Commencement stage, earning her Bachelor's in Business Administration and serving as an inspiration to her children.
When you invest in The President Paul J. LeBlanc First-Generation Scholarship Fund, you encourage students like Tiare to make it to the finish line and pursue their aspirations.
291 days ago by Katherine DuganTanner McCarthy '24, a first-generation college graduate, met President Paul LeBlanc when she gave him a tour of her high school. Impressed by her passion for engineering, President LeBlanc promised Tanner a scholarship if she were to attend SNHU. Years later, this story came full-circle when he handed Tanner her diploma at Spring Commencement.
The President Paul J. LeBlanc First-Generation Scholarship Fund provides support and helps break down barriers for students who are the first in their family to pursue a college degree. Every donation, regardless of size, empowers students like Tanner to follow their passions.
This past weekend, SNHU celebrated 16,800 eligible graduates ranging from ages 15-80 across four ceremonies, each marking a new chapter in their lives. This year's ceremonies carry a special significance as they were our last with President LeBlanc. His journey from being a first-generation student to a transformative leader embodies the power of education to unlock opportunity. Hear, in his own words, the path his life has taken and what this fund means to him:
We invite you to be a part of this legacy. Imagine the ripple effect of your contribution: a student, inspired by your generosity, achieves their dreams of higher education, paving the way for future generations in their family. Your support is more than a donation; it's an investment in the future and a testament to your belief in the power of education to transform lives.
Join us in honoring President LeBlanc and empowering SNHU learners to reach their full potential, regardless of their background or history. Together, we can ensure that the doors of opportunity remain wide open at SNHU.
Donors
View All Donors







