Granite Edvance honored with two community partner awards for supporting student success
Concord, NH — Granite Edvance has been recognized for its work in the community with awards from two partner organizations. In May, the NH nonprofit received Plymouth State University’s Community Partner Award in gratitude for its donations to the school’s Student Support Foundation. And in June, Granite Edvance received the Behind the Scenes award from the nonprofit Waypoint NH for its partnership and support.
“We believe in the power of community here at Granite Edvance, and it’s rewarding to witness the impact we’re having on students by teaming up with partners around the state,” said Granite Edvance President and CEO Christiana Thornton. “We’re honored to receive these awards and grateful to those who share a commitment to supporting New Hampshire’s students.”
Plymouth State University’s Community Partner Award is given each spring to a nonprofit or community-based organization “that has enhanced the quality of life in the community and engaged in the development of sustained, reciprocal partnerships with a college or university.”
In presenting the award, Nicole Nover, Assistant Director of Student Experience and Orientation, said that Granite Edvance “has made a significant impact on the lives of PSU students who are navigating financial hardship and unexpected emergencies. Their partnership helps ensure that students facing moments of instability can remain focused on their education and continue progressing toward their goals.”
Along with donating $200,000 to student aid funds within the University System of New Hampshire since 2025, Granite Edvance has donated food and funding to Plymouth State’s on-campus food pantry. Additionally, Granite Edvance partners with Plymouth State on initiatives and events such as its annual Destination College event.
Waypoint NH, a nonprofit that offers a variety of services and advocacy for NH residents of all ages, awarded Granite Edvance with its Behind the Scenes award at a ceremony at Bear Brook State Park in June. Granite Edvance recently began partnering with Waypoint to offer its free services and resources to the students and families Waypoint serves
About Granite Edvance
Granite Edvance is a New Hampshire nonprofit that supports New Hampshire students and their families through free career and higher-education counseling and resources, as well as through funding assistance including scholarships and competitive private student loans. Established in 1962, the organization rebranded as Granite Edvance in November 2023. Granite Edvance Corporation offers private student loan products, including the Granite Edvance Student Loan, the EdvestinU Private Student Loan, the Granite Edvance Refinance Loan, the EdvestinU Refinance Loan, and the Granite Edvance Parent Loan. Loans offered by Granite Edvance Corporation may be funded by Granite Edvance Corporation or Bank of Lake Mills, member FDIC.