About NCEP
A series of kitchen-table conversations led by local parents inspired the founding of the Newmarket Community Education Partnership (NCEP). The group’s goal was to augment social, academic and enrichment opportunities for local youth, also considering children who have limited access to programs that are already offered in the academic and recreational settings.
In 2004 NCEP was officially formed and its 501c3 non-profit status in was achieved in 2007.
Our Values
To enhance social, recreational and educational experiences for children and youth in the town of Newmarket.
Our Vision
To maintain a respected, financially stable organization in Newmarket that provides: resources to our target population through twice yearly grant cycles; in-kind goods and services donations; and facilitating awards of recognition to unsung heroes who work with children and youth.
NCEP board members
Nicole Benson moved to Newmarket nine years ago with her husband and son. In those nine years her family grew, and grew and grew some more. While changing diapers and trying to catch up on episodes of the Simpsons, she decided to become involved in the community in a way that draws all different community institutions to work together; enter NCEP. Currently she is a stay- at-home mom and works occasionally as a birth doula and volunteer at the elementary school. Before she came to NH, she taught Sociology and Economics at Northcentral Technical College, in Wisconsin. She holds a Master’s Degree in Sociology with extra study in Economics. She lives in town with her husband and four children.
Sherry Day is a New England native and has lived in Newmarket for 10 years. She has two school-aged-children and an infant. Sherry is employed as a video producer at an educational publishing company, and has spent many years working in a variety of roles in television production. She has spent time volunteering in the schools and has also given her time at various local non-profits. She has a particular interest in projects for students with special needs.
Heidi Chase is one of the original founders of NCEP. She has lived in Newmarket with her husband, Cliff, since 1987. Heidi has a son in Newmarket Sr High School and a son at UNH. Heidi's professional interests include working with people with developmental disabilities. She is the Director of the Friends Project, a social and recreational program for people with disabilities. Heidi also likes being outdoors and biking. She especially enjoys mountain biking.
Donna Harrington made Newmarket her home twenty years ago after graduating from the University of New Hampshire. She has been married to her husband Tim for 18 years, and is the proud mother of two boys, both of whom attend Newmarket Junior/Senior High School. Donna has worked at Newmarket Elementary School for six years, and has been a volunteer for ten years. She spent 6 years as a Cub Scout leader and Assistant Boy Scout Master. In her spare time, Donna enjoys zumba, yoga, camping, and spending time with her family and friends.
Darby Johnson has lived in Newmarket since 1998 and she and her husband are the parents of a student at the Newmarket Elementary School. Originally from Buffalo, NY, Darby moved to Newmarket in 1998 from Boston. It has quickly become “home” and she and her family love living in a town with a strong sense of community where so many are working incredibly hard to preserve the past while ensuring a strong quality of life for the present and the future. Darby is a Senior Account Manager at Beaupre & Co. Public Relations in Portsmouth and holds degrees from Wellesley College, Harvard and the Simmons College Graduate School of Management.
Lisa Kumph is a mother of two Newmarket Elementary School boys. She is a parent volunteer and substitute at the elementary school as well as a rec. soccer coach. Lisa is the part time Wellness Coordinator at the Newmarket Jr/ Sr high school. She is the head of the Nutrition Task Force and is a member of the Newmarket school district wellness committee. Lisa feels that the health and wellness of our community is extremely important and is committed to the programs that support health and wellness.
After graduating from UNH, Alison Leahy settled in Newmarket with her husband. She is the mother of three school-aged children. Alsion works for a communications firm in Portsmouth and NCEP gives her an opportunity to stay involved with the community while working full-time. She also has volunteered for the Cub Scouts and other local non-profits. Alison and her family enjoy hiking in the White Mountains as well as exploring areas in and around Great Bay.
