Rivier University dedicated the Perreault Commons, an expansive new green space at Rivier Village on Friday, September 18, honoring Sister Jeanne Perreault, p.m., ninth President of Rivier.
The outdoor space connecting the four apartment-style residence halls was named in recognition of Sister Jeanne’s extraordinary leadership and service. Featuring a gazebo, landscaped grounds, and open green space, the Commons provides students with a welcoming setting for recreation, community, and connection.
Sister Jeanne served as President of Rivier from 1980 to 1997, leading the institution through a period of significant growth and transformation. During her 17-year presidency, Rivier expanded its campus, increased enrollment, opened new facilities, and transitioned to a coeducational institution in 1991. She strengthened the University’s governance, advanced academic programs, and positioned Rivier for long-term success with a steadfast commitment to Rivier’s Catholic heritage and mission.
The naming of Perreault Commons was made possible through the generosity of benefactor and long-serving member of the Board of Trustees, Martha O’Neill, Esq. Her leadership gift was made in memory of her mother, Mrs. Katherine O’Neill, reflecting a shared appreciation for the values of education, community, and service that have long defined Rivier.
The ceremony began with a welcome from Dr. Hank Parkinson, Vice President for Student Experience, followed by an invocation and blessing from Sister Annette Laliberte, p.m., Provincial Superior of the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary.
Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President of Rivier University, offered remarks recognizing Sister Jeanne’s legacy of service to the Rivier community.
“This Commons represents Sister Jeanne’s commitment to building connections, engaging in conversations, and experiencing life through the beauty of nature,” says Sister Paula.
Greetings were also offered by The Honorable Jim Donchess, Mayor of the City of Nashua; Dr. Cecilia Stuopis, on behalf of the Rivier Board of Trustees; and Chloe Pena, Student Government President and a member of the Class of 2028, on behalf of Rivier students.
“The completion of Rivier Village marks a significant investment here at Rivier, but also an important step forward for Nashua’s future,” says Mayor Donchess. “It is fitting that this welcoming space is named for Sister Jeanne, whose leadership, as we know, helped shape Rivier’s enduring spirit of community and of service.”
The opening of Perreault Commons marked another milestone in the development of Rivier Village, a multi-phase investment in the University’s residential student experience that has transformed a city block along South Main Street into a modern apartment-style community for upper-level students. The first phase opened in 2024 with two residence halls featuring full kitchens, living areas, multiple bathrooms, and in-unit laundry, providing students with greater independence while remaining connected to campus life.
The second phase, which opened to students earlier this month, added 76 beds in two new residence halls and further developed the area with expanded parking, new walkways, landscaping, and outdoor spaces that connect the residential community with the broader campus.
The ceremony concluded with a ribbon-cutting, celebrating the Perreault Commons in Sister Jeanne’s honor.
About Rivier University
Founded in 1933 by the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary, Rivier University is a Catholic institution recognized for distinctive academic programs, offering many of the region’s leading programs at the undergraduate, professional studies, graduate, and doctoral levels with on-campus and online options. The Rivier experience ensures that students develop leadership skills as well as an awareness and appreciation of diverse cultures in New England and around the world.
