Speare Memorial Hospital welcomes Patrick Cate, president of Lakes Region Community College (LRCC), to the hospital’s board of directors. Cate, a resident of Campton, New Hampshire, brings more than two decades of leadership experience in higher education and a deep commitment to community engagement.

“I am truly honored to join the Speare Memorial Hospital board. As a resident of the region for 25 years with both of my children born at Speare and my family relying on the hospital for our own healthcare needs, I know firsthand the impact this organization has on Plymouth and the entire central New Hampshire region,” says Cate. “I look forward to supporting Speare’s continued service to our communities with distinction. I also want to recognize the dedication of the entire Speare team; their hard work and commitment to patient care are the foundation of the hospital’s success, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to that mission.”

Cate became the 13th President of LRCC in 2022, after serving in several leadership roles at the college since 2018, including associate vice president of academic and student affairs, vice president, and interim president. During his tenure, he has led significant program expansions, including the firefighter/paramedic program and the licensed practical nurse program to align academic programs with workforce needs.

Prior to joining LRCC, Cate spent 17 years at Plymouth State University in roles such as dean of student success, director of the college of university studies, and academic and transfer advisor, while also serving as an adjunct faculty member at both undergraduate and graduate levels. He has also held administrative and advising positions at Rivier University and Walnut Hill College in Pennsylvania.

Cate holds degrees from Keene State College and Plymouth State University. He resides in Campton, NH, with his family.