A Legacy of Leadership, Rooted in Giving Back
A familiar face, a trusted colleague, and a true friend to many, Peter Cofran has left an enduring mark on the Plymouth region and beyond. From Suncook to Plymouth to Bristol, his presence as a beloved coach, steadfast volunteer, and dedicated public servant has been deeply felt.
While Cofran humbly attributes much of his impact to simply being in the right place at the right time, those who know him best recognize it’s his quiet leadership, selfless nature, and unwavering commitment to others that truly define his legacy.
Cofran’s most enduring legacy, however, may very well be his commitment to making education accessible for future generations.
“We still need skilled people in the world... Plymouth State gives students a great opportunity to become those people.”
Recently, Cofran established The Peter S. Cofran ’74 Pembroke Academy Endowed Scholarship to ensure that students are equipped to secure their Plymouth State education – and give back to their own communities in the future.
“Peter was destined to be associated with Plymouth State from the day he was born,” says former colleague Ann Thurston, ‘80, ‘00G, ‘07CAGS. “His endowed scholarship is the most recent example of his commitment to his alma mater. Current and future students will benefit greatly from his generosity.”
A proud graduate of Pembroke Academy and Plymouth State College, Cofran has always credited his mentors, teachers, coaches, and advisors for steering him toward the opportunities that shaped his life.
“About three-quarters of the staff at Pembroke had gone to Plymouth Teachers College,” he recalls, making his choice to attend a logical one.
As a manager of the men’s varsity basketball team, General Manager of WPCR, a Resident Assistant in Grafton Hall, and Student Body President, Cofran made it his mission to leave no door unopened during his formative years at PSC. Upon graduation, he remained focused on PSC as resident director of Hall Dorm and then on to the Manager of the Students in Nature City apartments. He advocated on behalf of his peers, helped build a more inclusive and welcoming campus, and laid the foundation for a lifetime of service.
His dedication to the student body and to PSC opened doors after graduation, particularly in the world of high school athletics.
Cofran became a sought-after coach for girls’ basketball and softball serving Plymouth Regional High School for 37 seasons. He also answered the call to serve his community in other ways: as a member of the Plymouth Fire Department, working as a substitute teacher and classroom aide in the Pemi-Baker School District, and serving on numerous scholastic athletic committees.
Such unwavering commitment to both athletics and community service has earned Cofran a host of honors at the local, state, and university levels.
Community and state recognition for Cofran has included Plymouth Firefighter of the Year, Plymouth Lodge of Elks #2312 Elk of the Year, the NH Union Leader Carl Lundholm Memorial Award for distinguished service to youth in athletics in NH and the Plymouth Chamber of Commerce James C. Hobart Award Volunteer of the Year for Exemplary Community Service.
Cofran (third from left) with NH Governor Meldrim Thomson (center) and members of Student Senate advocating for the construction of Hyde Hall in 1974.
Plymouth State recognition has included Van A. Hartman Award for Outstanding Senior Male, PSC Alumni Association Alumni Achievement Award, Distinguished PAT Staff Member of the Year, Alumni Distinguished Service Award and being the 50th Class Reunion Speaker at Plymouth State University Undergraduate Commencement in 2024.
Though Cofran has worn many hats throughout his career, his recent decision to establish a scholarship at his alma mater marks a particularly personal and powerful chapter.
“I could give to anyone,” Cofran says, “but why not give back to someone from my own high school?”
That simple yet profound sentiment inspired the creation of this award, which provides annual financial assistance to Pembroke Academy graduates who demonstrate financial need and choose to attend Plymouth State University.
For Cofran, this isn’t just about paying it forward – it’s about removing barriers.
“It just seemed like the right thing to do,” he says, noting how much more difficult it is for students today to afford higher education compared to his own college years.
His scholarship is open to students of all majors, with the goal of supporting those who, like him, might be searching for direction and could benefit from the kind of guidance and opportunity that he received.
“We still need skilled people in the world,” Cofran emphasizes. “We need teachers, we need nurses, we need business-savvy professionals who understand how to use the latest tools. Plymouth State gives students a great opportunity to become those people.”
Even after retiring as Director of Athletics at Newfound Regional High School in 2019, Cofran remains deeply involved in service.
Affectionately nicknamed “Mr. PSC”, his moniker is a nod to not only is initials, but his enduring connection to Plymouth State (and a title proudly displayed on his license plate).
He has continued to serve on committees, such as the Plymouth State Alumni Board of Directors, volunteer in the community, and support initiatives that benefit students. Cofran remains as committed to giving back as he was in his college years over 50 years ago, and that is not expected to change anytime soon.
“I don’t like getting bored,” he jokes.
