New Hampshire Celebrates Innovators at 2025 Rising Stars Awards

The 2025 Rising Stars Awards will recognize New Hampshire’s most innovative and community-oriented individuals on **October 16, 2025**. This event, organized by **Stay Work Play** in collaboration with **New Hampshire Public Radio** and sponsored by **Eversource Energy**, will take place at The Venues at the Factory in **Manchester**.

“This isn’t just an awards ceremony; it’s a celebration of the energy, creativity, and bold ideas defining the future of New Hampshire,” remarked **Corinne Benfield**, Executive Director of Stay Work Play NH. The awards are designed to honor young professionals who excel in their fields while positively impacting their communities.

The theme for this year is “Neon Nostalgia,” reflecting the vibrant spirit of both the early 2000s and contemporary New Hampshire. Attendees can look forward to an evening filled with inspiring stories, recognition of outstanding achievements, and opportunities to connect with state leaders and innovators.

**Bob Coates**, President of New Hampshire Electric Operations for Eversource, emphasized the importance of supporting young talent: “We’re proud to celebrate the creativity, drive, and impact of this year’s Rising Stars, who are already shaping a stronger, more vibrant New Hampshire.”

The program will be hosted by **Lau Guzmán** of NHPR, featuring remarks from **Jay Ruais**, the Mayor of Manchester, alongside other special guests. Following the awards, a celebratory after-party will be held at **Revo Casino and Social House** in Manchester.

Honorees and Awards

Among the notable honorees is **Maggie O’Neill**, named Artist of the Year. A conductor, actor, and educator, O’Neill has enriched the arts and culture scene along the Seacoast. With performances alongside prestigious orchestras like the **Philadelphia Orchestra** and the **Berliner Philharmoniker**, she now brings her talents to local stages. O’Neill is also a co-founder of the **Seacoast Queer Choir**, which attracted over 220 attendees at its debut performance.

**Alyssa Pine**, awarded Entrepreneur of the Year, has redefined small business ownership in New Hampshire. Pine founded the **Live Freely Market** in Hampton, a collaborative retail space that supports over 20 businesses each weekend. Additionally, she runs **The Pine Hospitality Group** and has painted more than 75 murals across New England, enhancing public spaces with art.

The title of Student of the Year goes to **Jaime Ceniceros**, a recent honors graduate from **Manchester West High School**. Ceniceros has served as a student representative on the Manchester School Board and advocated for significant renovations to outdated facilities. He is set to begin his studies in Legal Studies at **Saint Anselm College** this fall, becoming the first in his family to attend college.

Another highlight is **Andy DeMeo**, recognized as Young Person of the Year for his work as the creator and host of **Granite Goodness**, a newsletter and podcast focusing on positive developments in New England. DeMeo’s storytelling emphasizes community resilience and innovation, reflecting his deep roots in New Hampshire.

**Mainstay Technologies** has earned the title of Coolest Employer for Young People. The company offers a mission-driven culture that promotes employee growth and community involvement. Mainstay is the first employer to win this award twice, demonstrating its commitment to fostering young talent in a supportive environment.

The newly introduced **Zenith Award** will honor **Cotton Cleveland** for her lifetime achievements in advancing opportunities for young people in New Hampshire. Cleveland’s extensive contributions include founding **Leadership New Hampshire** and her work with the **New Hampshire Women’s Foundation**. Her mentorship has inspired countless young professionals and underrepresented voices in the state.

A new category, the Young Professional Network of the Year, will recognize an outstanding network dedicated to connecting young individuals with meaningful initiatives. The inaugural winner will be announced live during the ceremony.

For those interested in attending or learning more about the event, additional information can be found at stayworkplay.org. The Rising Stars Awards promise to showcase the dynamic talent and potential driving New Hampshire’s future.