Mount Wachusett Community College Announces Lia Gomez as Commencement Speaker

MWCC Class of 2025 Commencement Speaker Lia Gomez
Photo courtesy Nioa Carignan

GARDNER, MA - May 7, 2025 - Mount Wachusett Community College is honored to announce Rutland, MA resident Lia Gomez as the commencement speaker for the Class of 2025. Gomez, a dedicated student and advocate, embodies the spirit of perseverance and growth that defines the MWCC community.

After nearly three decades away from education, Gomez made the decision at the age of 46 to pursue her college education. Overcoming initial fears and doubts, she found a supportive environment at MWCC as a member of the TRIO Visions Program, and she discovered new passions and excelled academically. She will receive her Associate of Science in Human Services and will be awarded the President's Key, which is reserved for students who graduate with a perfect 4.0 grade point average.

"We are thrilled to have Lia Gomez as our commencement speaker," said James Vander Hooven, President of Mount Wachusett Community College. "Her journey exemplifies the transformative power of education and the resilience of our students. We look forward to celebrating this milestone with Lia and the entire Class of 2025."

Gomez will be continuing her educational journey next year at Worcester State University where she will major in Urban Studies with minors in Social Work and Public Policy.

The commencement ceremony will take place on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 5:00 pm at Mount Fitness, on the MWCC Gardner Campus. For more information, please visit mwcc.edu/celebrate.

Mount Wachusett Community College Reveals New Mascot--Monty!

GARDNER, MA - May 2, 2025 - Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC) is thrilled to announce a new chapter in its school spirit with the unveiling of the new mascot, Monty the Mountain Lion.

Monty made his first appearance on April 29th at a mascot reveal party. Students gathered to welcome Monty with food and entertainment. On May 6th the Leominster campus will welcome Monty.

Monty is a revamped version of the previous mascot, Marty, a transformation which modernizes and improves the connection of the mascots story and imagery to better represent the community, energy, and spirit of MWCC. After listening to feedback from students, staff, and alumni, the decision was made to give the mascot a fresh new identity that resonates with the growing culture and pride at Mount Wachusett Community College.

"Monty is a name that embodies the heart of our community and the strength of our values," said James Vander Hooven, President of MWCC. "The change reflects our commitment to creating a positive and engaging environment for our students and community members. Monty will be a symbol of inclusivity, pride, and the adventurous spirit we foster here at MWCC."

"The introduction of Monty marks an exciting new chapter for MWCC," said Stephanie England, Director of Marketing & Communications. "This mascot rebrand was the result of months of planning, collaboration, and creative development—driven by student feedback and a strong desire to strengthen our campus identity. Monty is more than just a new face; he symbolizes the energy, pride, and unity that defines the MWCC community. We're confident he will play a vital role in bringing our students together through events, engagement, and school spirit."

Keep an eye out for Monty at upcoming events, including the Grad Bash on May 5th and at future college events.