Christiana Thornton, president and CEO of Granite Edvance, has been named chair-elect of the Business and Industry Association of New Hampshire Board of Directors.
Thornton will help guide the statewide business advocacy organization’s strategic priorities and workforce development efforts before assuming the role of board chair in spring 2027. She will succeed current Chair Patrick Closson.
Thornton has led Granite Edvance since 2018 and has focused on expanding access to higher education and career training opportunities for New Hampshire students and families. She has served on the BIA board since 2023.
BIA President and CEO Michael Skelton said Thornton’s experience in workforce development and higher education will benefit the organization and its members.
Granite Edvance is a nonprofit organization that provides college and career counseling, scholarships and student financing options for New Hampshire students. The BIA represents more than 400 member organizations and advocates for policies supporting economic growth, workforce development and talent retention.
