Each year, New Brunswick Community College (NBCC) proudly honours outstanding graduates from across our six campuses with the distinction of Valedictorian.
Get to know the remarkable group of graduates representing NBCC’s Class of 2026!
Samantha Keays, a graduate of NBCC’s Early Childhood Education program at the Saint John campus, is recognized for her resilience, compassion, and dedication to her community. Throughout her studies, she maintained a 4.3 GPA while navigating an aggressive breast cancer diagnosis in February 2025—an experience that deepened her strength, determination and perspective.
During her time at NBCC, Samantha contributed to both the learning and campus environment by serving as a peer tutor and Student Union Class Representative, demonstrating leadership grounded in collaboration. She is also actively involved in her community, volunteering with the Canadian Cancer Society at events such as The Run for the Cure, and by lending her voice to the Healing Voices Choir, which brings together individuals affected by cancer. Samantha’s experiences have shaped her commitment to community, advocacy, and lifelong learning.
Ashlie White, a graduate of NBCC’s Human Services Practitioner program at the Woodstock campus, is known for her resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to supporting others.
A proud single mom to her 13-year-old son, Ashlie was inspired by the support she once received to return to school and pursue a career grounded in helping others. Throughout her studies, she balanced her responsibilities at home with hands-on experience, working in a group home and as a unit clerk at the Upper River Valley Hospital. In May 2025, she was selected to represent NBCC through the Bridging the Ocean program, where she studied inclusive practices in Finland—an experience that reshaped her perspective and strengthened her commitment to the field.
Most recently, Ashlie took on a new role as an Educational Assistant with the Anglophone West School District, while continuing her work at both the group home and the hospital. As the first in her family to graduate from college, she is looking forward to continuing her education at the University of Maine Presque Isle, where she will pursue a Bachelor of Social Work this fall.
Christianna Howard, a graduate of NBCC’s Electrical: Industrial program at the St. Andrews campus, discovered her passion for the skilled trades by stepping outside of her comfort zone. Originally from Fredericton and the eldest of four siblings, her interest in electrical work was initially sparked during a Grade 12 class. She quickly fell in love with what she was learning, leading her to enroll at NBCC.
Christianna is actively involved in her community, contributing her time to support the Leo Hayes High School Drama Club and Safe Grad events, as well as the Fredericton Kiwanis Youth Choir. Outside of volunteering, she he also enjoys animated films, travelling, reading fantasy novels, and spending time with family and friends.
Following graduation, Christianna looks forward to building a career in a field she is truly passionate about.
Amanda Munn, a graduate of NBCC’s Early Childhood Education program at the Miramichi campus, has built a life grounded in resilience, empathy, and determination. Originally from Newfoundland, she moved to New Brunswick in her early twenties, where she and her husband raised their family. After nearly two decades in the service industry, Amanda returned to school in search of a more meaningful career and now works in the inclusion support field.
Living with ADHD has shaped how she approaches learning – encouraging creatively and finding strength through challenges. A lifelong lover of words and authentic connection, Amanda hopes to use her voice to help others feel understood and valued.
Hannah-Jayne Munro, a graduate of NBCC’s Business Administration: Accounting program at the Moncton campus, has built a strong foundation in her hometown of Moncton, New Brunswick. She values collaboration and believes in leading by example, inspiring others to exceed their own expectations.
Prior to beginning her NBCC journey, Hannah-Jayne graduated from Moncton Christian Academy and was awarded the Governor General’s Academic Bronze Medal – a milestone that reflects her long-standing commitment to academic excellence. During her time at NBCC, she continued to build on that success, balancing full-time studies with part-time work at The Shoe Company, completing a practicum with Irving Consumer Products, and pursuing her own personal passions. Following graduation, Hannah-Jayne plans to continue her education and work towards earning her Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation.
Zoë Charron, a graduate of NBCC’s Practical Nurse program at the Moncton campus, has followed a path defined by determination and growth. Born and raised in Ontario to a french-speaking family, Zoë is the oldest of five children.
After high school, she studied esthetics in college and spent several years working as an esthetician in Ottawa, before relocating to Shediac, New Brunswick, to be closer to her family. In 2023, Zoe felt called to pursue a career in healthcare and applied to NBCC’s Practical Nurse program. Although she was initially waitlisted, she remained committed and was ultimately accepted in 2024.
Over the past two years, Zoë has approached her studies with resilience and dedication, building the knowledge and skills needed to provide compassionate, patient-centred care. She looks forward to beginning her nursing career and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Melana Williams, a graduate of the NBCC’s Pre-Employment Carpentry program at the Moncton campus, is the first among her siblings to complete post secondary education. From a young age, Melana developed a resilient spirit and is known for her creativity and her love of hands-on work.
Originally from Ontario, Melana was inspired to pursue a career in carpentry by her high school teacher, Mr. Wells. Through his class projects, she found connections between carpentry and her creative pursuits, including crocheting and poetry—particularly in the use of math and the sense of pride that come with completing a project.
During her studies, Melana was involved in NBCC’s Knit for NICU project, creating carefully crafted toys and baby hats. Outside of the College, she volunteered with the Humanity Project – an experience he says deepened her understanding of community needs and strengthened her sense of connection of those around her.
Following graduation, Melana is looking forward to beginning her carpentry career and plans to pursue her Red Seal Certification.
Tracey Hanlon, a graduate of NBCC’s Business Administration: Accounting program at the Fredericton campus, has been a powerful advocate for inclusion, neurodivergence, kindness, and understanding. Originally from a small community in Newfoundland, she came to New Brunswick seeking new opportunities and a fresh start.
During her time at NBCC, Tracey served as Vice President of the NBCC Fredericton Student Union, where she championed student wellness initiatives and helped create a welcoming, supportive environment for her peers. Often found in the Student Union office, she became a familiar and friendly presence – offering guidance, encouragement, and even delicious snacks to fellow students.
Tracey’s leadership and advocacy have left a lasting impact on the Fredericton campus, and she looks forward to carrying that same spirit of inclusion and belonging into the next chapter of her journey.