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Dr. James Keane, a career educator, was appointed president of Nashua Community College (NCC), succeeding longtime leader Lucille Jordan. Keane, who began his tenure on July 14, has a student-centered vision emphasizing flexibility, workforce development, and strong community connection.
“Education changes lives, and community colleges are at the heart of that mission,” Keane says. “[Nashua Community College] is a place where opportunity and community intersect, and I’m thrilled to work alongside faculty, staff, and students to shape a future grounded in innovation, success, and partnerships.”
Keane comes to Nashua from Curry College in Massachusetts, where he served as associate provost. He previously held leadership roles at Quinsigamond Community College and Suffolk County Community College, both in Massachusetts, and spent a decade at St. John’s University in New York. Along the way, he built a reputation for strategic planning, expanding workforce programs, and providing student support on all campuses.
His leadership philosophy blends listening and adapting. “I see my role as one who tries to remove obstacles so that others have the ability to find success,” Keane explains. “This work isn’t about being on a pedestal; it’s about rolling up your sleeves, listening deeply, and being in the trenches with your team.”
Keane’s academic journey began with a bachelor’s in environmental studies from St. John’s. Inspired by service work in Panama and prison chaplaincy internships, he pursued a master’s in theology focused on social justice. “One of the biggest equalizers is education,” he says. “That realization really came through my theology studies: that the power to change someone’s path often starts with access to education.”
He also holds a doctorate in higher education administration from Seton Hall in New Jersey and continues to teach ethics and philosophy, subjects he calls “unsung heroes in higher ed” for building perspective and critical thinking.
At NCC, Keane hopes to tackle challenges like student retention and the changing needs of the regional economy. His approach emphasizes creating an “ecosystem of support” that acknowledges students’ complex lives. “We want to make sure that when a bump happens, they know there’s somebody here to help them find another path forward,” he says.
Outside the office, Keane is a self-proclaimed foodie and avid, if humble, runner. “I’ve done six New York City Marathons,” he says with a laugh. “I’m not breaking records, but I love the community of runners. Whether you’re a four-minute miler or bringing up the rear like me, people are always cheering you on.”
Now settling into Nashua, Keane is eager to connect with local businesses, nonprofits, and leaders to shape NCC’s next chapter. “Community colleges are more essential than ever,” he says. “I look forward to building something that lasts, together.”
