From the president
While Kelly’s pursuit of a college degree was motivated by tragic circumstances, her drive to turn trauma into an ambitious goal that brought her to NHTI’s Addiction Counseling and Business degree programs. Kelly established the Michael Stephen Boyd Memorial Foundation, which will give way to an addiction recovery center in her son’s name. Kelly is a mission-driven, adult student who has served in a variety of roles including military service, marathon running, and parenting. Kelly has deep connections at NHTI. She served as a Trustee on the Community College System of New Hampshire’s (CCSNH) Board of Trustees, representing all CCSNH students. She is President of NHTI’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society (PTK) as well as a PTK Regional Officer. Recognizing that learning comes from experiences, Kelly sought, and is a finalist, for PTK’s International Vice President. Projects that she has led or co-led brought increased knowledge about addiction and recovery to the entire campus community and the establishment of a career closet for students who need clothing for interviews. Kelly’s community service and purposeful pursuit of knowledge gives me confidence that she will realize her goal to open a recovery center and continue to serve our community.
Personal Statement
I am a nontraditional, service-oriented, lifelong learner. I served in the U.S. Marine Corps and am employed as a USPS mail carrier. Four years ago, I lost my son Sgt. Michael Boyd to a Fentanyl overdose. He served as a Marine during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. In 2019, I established The Michael Stephen Boyd Memorial Foundation. As CEO, I mentor high school students who volunteer for the foundation. Each week, these volunteers and I bring clothing, food, and other necessities to the homeless population in my area. We advocate for ending the stigma of addiction and homelessness. I am dedicated to serving others, particularly those with substance use disorders and those who are unhoused. I graduated last year with a degree in Addiction Counseling and am continuing my education in non-profit business administration. My long-range goal is to run a recovery center. By sharing my experience, I hope to encourage others to find their own path in serving to those around them. The same people who work towards supporting the development and well-being of others are ultimately the ones who find success in their own leadership. These are the people who can and will change the world.