Granite Edvance CEO named Chair-Elect of BIA-NH Board

Concord, NH — Christiana Thornton, President and CEO of the statewide nonprofit Granite Edvance, has been named Chair-Elect of the Board of Directors for the Business and Industry Association (BIA) of New Hampshire, the state’s leading business advocate and statewide chamber of commerce.  

Thornton’s appointment reflects her longstanding commitment to strengthening education opportunities and workforce readiness for NH students. As Chair-Elect, she will help guide the organization’s strategic priorities and its efforts to foster a strong business climate and support workforce development in the state. In the spring of 2027, Thornton will move into the role of Chair. 

“New Hampshire’s future depends on strong partnerships between education and industry,” said Thornton. “Granite Edvance and the BIA share a commitment to helping students, families, educators, and employers work together to build a skilled and resilient workforce. I’m honored to serve in this leadership role and support efforts that help New Hampshire students succeed and businesses thrive.” 

Granite Edvance and the BIA are closely aligned in their focus on workforce development and expanding pathways to education and career success. Through free college-and-career planning services, scholarships, grants, and private lending solutions, Granite Edvance helps students prepare for careers that meet the evolving needs of New Hampshire employers. 

The BIA, which represents approximately 450 member organizations, advocates for policies and initiatives that support economic growth, talent development, and workforce retention across the state. Both organizations recognize the importance of connecting education and career planning with the demands of New Hampshire’s economy. 

“We are very grateful and excited to work with Christiana Thornton in her new role as Chair-Elect for the BIA Board of Directors,” said BIA President & CEO Michael Skelton. “As the President & CEO of longtime BIA member Granite Edvance, Christiana understands our public policy goals in workforce development and higher education. We look forward to her contributions as Chair-Elect and eventual Chair position. Christiana has a thoughtful and positive approach to business, and we look forward to her leadership.”  

Thornton, who will succeed Patrick Closson as Chair, has been on the BIA-NH board since May 2023. She has served as President and CEO of Granite Edvance since 2018, leading the organization’s efforts to increase access to higher education and career training opportunities for NH students and families. She also serves as a Trustee for the University System of New Hampshire and the NH Mutual Bancorp, and as Chair of New Hampshire’s College Tuition Savings Plan Advisory Commission. Prior to joining Granite Edvance, she was President of the New Hampshire Bankers Association.