Skip to Main Site Navigation Skip to Content Skip to Footer
Back To Top

Inside Eastern

2025

Caio de Sousa prints a custom-made T-shirt at T-SWAP.

Student-owned ‘T-SWAP’ brings new 'purpose' to downtown Willimantic
Caio de Sousa opens ‘T-Shirts with a Purpose’

Eastern student Caio de Sousa has wasted no time getting involved in Willimantic’s small business scene. Along with friend Griffin Ryan, the sophomore accounting major co-owns and operates...

Posted on December 03, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Eastern banner on a fall day

University Senate passes resolution affirming academic freedom

The University Senate at Eastern recently passed a resolution affirming academic freedom. The resolution was voted on and approved on Oct. 21.

Posted on December 03, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Day of Giving volunteers

WATCH: Day of Giving 2025

Eastern welcomed nearly 500 guests to Hurley Hall on Nov. 26 for the 19th annual Day of Giving, a Thanksgiving feast served by students/staff and prepared by Eastern's dining service, Eastern...

Posted on December 03, 2025

A panoramic view of the Spanish for Business event

New course supports Spanish-speaking businesses
Spanish students foster community ties

Eastern's Department of World Languages and Cultures and the Latino Chamber of Windham recently hosted a special event celebrating a semester of community partnerships and hands-on learning....

Posted on December 02, 2025 by Darlene Orozco '28

Stock image of a wine cabinet (via Shutterstock)

Villanueva advances global wine research
Study of ‘a social beverage’

Emiliano Villanueva continues to be a global authority on the business of wine. The business administration professor and department chair was recently appointed as an assistant editor of the Wine...

Posted on December 01, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

Junior anthropology major Trisha Doucette explores life abroad in Greece.

Warriors take studies around the globe in fall 2025

Eight students from Eastern Connecticut State University are taking their studies abroad during the fall 2025 semester. Each of the travelers has had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the...

Posted on November 24, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig '26

Jacqueline P. McMahon speaking to students.

‘She Did It Anyway’
Event highlights women working in criminal justice

“Do it afraid. Do it anyway.” This was the message from keynote speaker Celeste Willard at “She Did It Anyway,” a networking event hosted by Eastern Connecticut State...

Posted on November 24, 2025 by Savannah Striano '25

Left to right, back row: President Karim Ismaili, Sebastian Spencer '26 (varied indigenous background and reader of statement), Beth Regan '79, Michael Thomas (Mashantucket Pequot), LaMar Coleman (VP of equity and diversity). Front row: Natasha Gambrell '15 (Eastern Pequot), Valerie Gambrell '77 (Eastern Pequot), Cassandra Sherman Keola (Golden Hill Paugussett)

Eastern holds first land acknowledgement ceremony
'The land on which we stand'

Eastern Connecticut State University made a meaningful gesture this Native American Heritage Month by holding its first land acknowledgement ceremony on Nov. 19. The ceremony featured...

Posted on November 20, 2025 by Michael Rouleau '11

Zoe Calhoun in front of the set of "No Exit"

Senior Zoe Calhoun rises through the ranks in theatre production
From tech staff to director

Crowds gasped, laughed, and reflected during a sold-out, one-night performance of Jean-Paul Sartre’s “No Exit” this past October. The existential classic, reimagined and directed...

Posted on November 19, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

Aclaimed author and activist Homeira Qaderi discusses living as a woman in Afghanistan

Homeira Qaderi shares story of resistance
Acclaimed author and activist discusses life as a woman in Afghanistan

The Women’s and Gender Studies program at Eastern hosted a conversation with award-winning Afghan writer and women’s rights advocate Homeira Qaderi on Nov. 12 at Webb Hall. Qaderi...

Posted on November 19, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

History Department Chair Caitlin Carenen introduces the alumni

History alumni discuss careers after Eastern

A quintet of alumni from Eastern’s Department of History returned to campus as panelists to share their career journeys with current history majors on Nov. 12 in the David G. Carter Science...

Posted on November 17, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig '26

A group photo of Small Business Academy students and faculty

Local entrepreneurs attend Eastern’s first Small Business Academy
Collaborative series offered through new Small Business Resource Center

Eastern Connecticut State University hosted a series of business courses for local entrepreneurs this fall 2025 semester. The inaugural session of the Small Business Academy (SBA) was offered by...

Posted on November 12, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Students gather at the Student Center for workshops at the annual CALAHE conference

CALAHE empowers Latinos in higher education

Eastern Connecticut State University hosted the annual Connecticut Association of Latinos in Higher Education (CALAHE) conference on Nov. 1 in the Student Center. The event brought together high...

Posted on November 12, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

VIDEO: Making of 'Cinderella,' an Eastern opera

Take a behind-the-scenes look at the Music Department’s latest opera production, "Cinderella," showing Nov. 14 and 16 in the Fine Arts Instructional Center Concert Hall. Meet the...

Posted on November 12, 2025

Marathon participants pose for a group photo

Poverty marathon returns to raise awareness and donations

Eastern Connecticut State University held its 12th Poverty Awareness Marathon on Nov. 7 after a six-year break. More than 100 members of the Eastern community ran and walked to raise awareness of...

Posted on November 11, 2025 by Darlene Orozco '28

Stock image of a data center server control specialist

Eastern launches new cybersecurity minor
In-demand program is open to students of all majors

Eastern Connecticut State University launched a new cybersecurity minor in the fall 2025 semester. Spurred by broad interest and increasing workforce demands, the 18-credit minor is available to...

Posted on November 11, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Major Daniel DePasquale '11

Gratitude for those who serve
Eastern holds annual Veterans Day ceremony

Eastern Connecticut State University hosted its annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Nov. 11 in the Student Center. The event featured keynote speaker Major Daniel DePasquale ’11, an Eastern...

Posted on November 11, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Eugene Z. Bertrand (left) and his book "Resilience: Breaking the Chains" (right)

'Resilience': Alum's new book confronts domestic violence
Eugene Bertrand ‘24 becomes voice for change

After discovering a love for public speaking and writing as a student at Eastern Connecticut State University, Eugene Z. Bertrand ‘24 published his first book, “Resilience: Breaking the...

Posted on November 10, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

Professor Thomas Balcerski presenting at Cumberland.

Balcerski presents on partisan history at Cumberland University

History Professor Thomas Balcerski presented a guest lecture on partisan history at a conference hosted by Cumberland University in Lebanon, TN, on Oct 28. Balcerski discussed the "Papers of...

Posted on November 10, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig '26

Alyssa Duffy and the Campus Activity Board staff at the closing dinner.

Student Activities takes home awards at NACA

Staff members and student workers from Eastern’s Office of Student Activities brought home several regional awards from the National Association of Campus Activities (NACA) conference in...

Posted on November 10, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig '26

Rigg discusses new collection of short stories

'Extinction Capital of the World': Guest author discusses new book

The English Department hosted guest author Mariah Rigg this October for a discussion with students about her new collection of short stories, “Extinction Capital of the World.”

Posted on November 07, 2025 by Savannah Striano '25

Eastern President Karim Ismaili (left) and Connecticut Attorney General William Tong

Connecticut's top lawyer urges a commitment to values
Attorney General William Tong visits Eastern

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong visited Eastern Connecticut State University for an engaging conversation with President Karim Ismaili on Oct. 29 at the Student Center Theatre. Tong...

Posted on November 06, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

Scenes from "No exit"

Student-directed play reimagines existentialist classic
Zoe Calhoun '26 directs 'No Exit'

The Department of Communication, Film, and Theatre delighted attendees with a one-night, sold-out performance of “No Exit," an existentialist play directed by senior communication and...

Posted on November 05, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '26

'Witch of Pungo' mini-documentary

Moore featured in 'Witch of Pungo' mini-documentary

History Professor Scott Moore was featured in a series of mini-documentaries by Virginia-based WHRO Public Media commemorating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution....

Posted on November 05, 2025

Silk City Coffee co-owners (left to right) Glenn Gerhard, Tammy Gerhard '92, Sarah May, Rob Ray

Alumna Tammy Gerhard ’92 opens Willimantic coffee shop
A homecoming for Silk City Coffee’s second location

Willimantic’s Main Street welcomed a new small business this fall, led by Eastern Connecticut State University alumna Tammy Gerhard ’92. Gerhard and her business partners opened Silk...

Posted on November 03, 2025 by Michael Rouleau

Computer Science Alumni speak at panel

Computer science alumni discuss careers and AI

The Computer Science Department hosted three alumni and a current student for a career and internship panel in the David G. Carter Science Building on Oct. 15. Zak Helte ‘28, Barrie Fraley...

Posted on October 31, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig '26

The panelists at "Becoming a Woman"

Documentary explores what it means to be a woman
‘Voices of Women at Eastern’

Eastern continued its “Becoming a Woman” series with an original documentary exploring what it means to be a woman. Featuring Eastern students, faculty, staff, and alumni, "Voices...

Posted on October 29, 2025 by Darlene Orozco '28

Kelly Pompa '24

Kelly Pompa '24: From Eastern to Emmy
Resilience propels young alum's sports media career

Kelly Pompa ’24 was in her element: at work in the control room during NBC/Peacock's streaming broadcast of the 2024 Paris Olympics. This was her dream job, a moment she had worked...

Posted on October 28, 2025 by Savannah Striano '25

Goodin as a stage manager for "No Exit"

Tom Goodin '73 returns to study his passion: theatre

Tom Goodin ’73 likes to call himself one of the oldest students at Eastern. After graduating from Eastern more than five decades ago with a degree in education, Goodin is currently pursuing...

Posted on October 28, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

Back row, left to right: Kendrick Constant '18, Milton Jackson '05, Brian Green '10, Raena Beetham '13, Amanda Piazza '20, Kevin Booker '00 '08 '10, Joseph Morgan '23, Amelinda Rossitto '10, Lauren Sposato '13, Interim Chief Development Officer Philip Ellmore, University Events and Engagement Director Candace DeAngelis '98. Front row, left to right: Shannon (Mumley) Frost '10, Director of Alumni Communication and Advancement Christopher Dorsey '96, Eastern President Karim Ismaili, James Woulfe '09.

New alumni council aims to strengthen Eastern’s alumni network
Alumni Advisory Council to champion connection and philanthropy

The Office of Development and Alumni Engagement has convened a new group of alumni volunteers to serve as ambassadors for Eastern Connecticut State University. The actively growing Alumni Advisory...

Posted on October 28, 2025 by Michael Rouleau '11

Eastern hosts New England conference for English teachers

Eastern welcomed English educators from across New England on Oct. 25 for the 123rd annual New England Association of Teachers of English (NEATE) conference. Hosted in partnership with the...

Posted on October 27, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

Warriors at COPLAC

Another strong showing for Eastern at COPLAC
Students present on myriad research topics at annual conference

Fourteen students from Eastern Connecticut State University presented their undergraduate research at the Council of Public Liberal Arts Colleges (COPLAC) annual conference from Oct. 17 to 18 at...

Posted on October 27, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig '26

Students gather in front of the Potomac River.

Students visit World Bank and other Washington D.C. institutions
Educational trip immerses in finance, history, culture

A group of 18 students at Eastern Connecticut State University representing various majors visited the World Bank in Washington, D.C. this October as part of a two-day educational trip exploring...

Posted on October 27, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

President Ismaili presenting the grant

Eastern receives $2.25M federal grant to strengthen student success efforts

Eastern Connecticut State University held a special meeting on Oct. 22 to discuss a newly awarded multi-million-dollar grant from the U.S. Department of Education and to hear updates on the...

Posted on October 27, 2025 by Michael Rouleau

Wonder of the World

Dark comedy ‘Wonder of the World’ delivers barrel of laughs

The Department of Communication, Film, and Theatre at Eastern Connecticut State University held showings of the dark comedy “Wonder of the World,” written by David Lindsay-Abaire and...

Posted on October 27, 2025 by Darlene Orozco '28

Business administration Lecturer Linda Ferraro (left), and business administration Assistant Professor Matthew Coyne (right)

Business faculty Coyne and Ferraro present on agritourism and DEI

Two College of Business faculty members recently presented research and insights during an industry panel discussion and academic webinar. Business administration Professor Matthew Coyne presented...

Posted on October 20, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

A group of alumni gather for the jubilee

Class of 1975 returns for 50-year reunion
Jubilee alumni receive golden diplomas

In 1975, the Vietnam War came to an end, classics “Jaws” and “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” made their cinematic debut, Microsoft was founded, and the Class of 1975...

Posted on October 20, 2025 by Michael Rouleau

Students make connections at the Fall 2025 Career Fair

VIDEO: Career Connections
Moments from fall 2025 Career and Internship Fair

Approximately 365 students gathered with their resumes in the Student Center's Betty R. Tipton Room for the opportunity to speak with 50 different employers at the fall semester career and...

Posted on October 15, 2025 by Savannah Striano '25

FieldTurf Installation underway for Eastern’s baseball and softball facilities

Turf installation underway for Eastern’s softball and baseball facilities

Two of Eastern Connecticut State University’s most decorated athletics programs are receiving major facility upgrades. The Warriors’ national championship softball and baseball teams...

Posted on October 15, 2025

Students clean Main Street in front of the Windham Town Hall

Film: Eastern Cares
Students help out around Willimantic

On Oct. 4, more than 130 Eastern students dedicated their time, effort, and energy during the annual “Day of Caring” in Willimantic. The initiative, a collaboration between...

Posted on October 14, 2025

Davis awarded fellowship at Institute for Advanced Study
History professor will work on book manuscript in spring 2026

History Professor Bradley Camp Davis has been selected as a member of the Institute for Advanced Study (IAS), an independent theoretical research center in Princeton, NJ, for the 2025-26 academic...

Posted on October 14, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

"Becoming a Woman" reception featured contributions by Ann Weathersby

'Becoming a Woman' commences with art exhibition
Series inspired by literary themes and life of Annie Ernaux

Eastern’s Art Gallery kicked off the “Becoming a Woman: Reflections Around Annie Ernaux" series with a curation of pieces inspired by the life of French Nobel Laureate Annie...

Posted on October 14, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig '26

HerFest

HERfest celebrates womanhood

Students gathered at the Student Center Betty Tipton Room on Oct. 8 to celebrate womanhood and community. Hosted by the Women’s Center at Eastern, HERfest included activities and food by...

Posted on October 14, 2025 by Darlene Orozco

Grace Carlos '23 and Katherine Escalante '25

Political science alumni take their talents to Washington, D.C.
Carlos, Escalante land work on Capitol Hill

Two recent political science graduates from Eastern Connecticut State University recently began their professional careers in the nation’s capital. Grace Carlos ’23 serves full-time as...

Posted on October 13, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

CTLA Director Julia DeLapp (right) speaks at a CTLA event.

By Students, For Faculty
Students develop course planning tool through Davis Grant initiative

Through an initiative funded by the Davis Educational Foundation, three students at Eastern Connecticut State University are currently developing a digital course planning tool to help faculty...

Posted on October 13, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Jolie Garcia and Sajae Willis at their White Coat ceremony at Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine Florida Campus in Melbourne on July 2025

Alumni couple pursues medical school side by side
Sajae Willis ’22 and Jolie Garcia ’22 motivated to serve underprivileged communities

Since meeting as first-year students, Sajae Willis ’22 and Jolie Garcia ’22 have been inseparable. Together, they navigated the rigors of Eastern’s biology program and now...

Posted on October 10, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

A family poses with Willi the Warrior

Family Day brings together students and loved ones

It was a beautiful fall day at Eastern Connecticut State University on Oct. 4 as students and their families gathered for the annual Family Day celebration. Hosted by the Office of Student...

Posted on October 09, 2025 by Savannah Striano '25

Two-time Olympic medalist Ruthie Bolton as keynote speaker

'#EndIt' raises relationship-violence awareness

Ten million people every year are affected by relationship violence, according to the National Institutes of Health. To raise awareness on this issue, Eastern Connecticut State University hosted...

Posted on October 08, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

Mathis headshot

Alumna Sharale Mathis ’98 appointed community college president

An Eastern Connecticut State University alumna is busy making her mark as a campus leader at Connecticut State Community College. Sharale (Walker) Mathis ’98 is the new campus president at...

Posted on October 01, 2025 by Ed Osborn

Craft selections at Minecraft Monday

Students level up at CAB’s video game-themed Fall Fest

Students at Eastern Connecticut State University spent the week dancing at “Club Penguin,” greeting bunnies at the “Stardew Valley” petting zoo, and enjoying video...

Posted on September 30, 2025 by Savannah Striano '26

A student networking with a prospective employer at the Accounting Fair

Alumni accountants recruit students at annual fair

Eastern’s College of Business welcomed more than 30 alumni to its 21st annual Accounting Fair on Sept. 18. More than 100 students networked with business representatives, connected with...

Posted on September 30, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

Taylor Swift singing

Swift Studies: 'The Power of Taylor Swift'
Students learn key skills through analysis of pop megastar

Eastern Connecticut State University is offering a new course for students this fall that explores pop superstar Taylor Swift’s career and influence. The course, taught by history Professor...

Posted on September 29, 2025 by Kyle Berson

History student Emma Schafer and Prof. Balcerksi by Schafer's presentation poster

'Present from the Start' spotlights Black and Indigenous colonial history

More than 150 historians, graduate, and undergraduate students from across Connecticut filled the Student Center on Sept. 20 for a conference highlighting the forgotten histories of ethnic...

Posted on September 29, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Community partners attend the SBRC networking event

Willimantic businesses rally behind new Small Business Resource Center

Eastern Connecticut State University hosted a community networking event on Sept. 22 at the J. Eugene Smith Library for its recently formalized Small Business Resource Center (SBRC). Launched in...

Posted on September 29, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

Students gather at the Fine Arts Instructional Center Art Gallery for the biennial art and design faculty exhibition

Art Gallery showcases faculty artists in 'Local Ground, Global Circuits'

Eastern Connecticut State University celebrated the opening of its biennial art and design faculty exhibition, titled “Local Ground, Global Circuits,” with a reception on Sept. 18 in...

Posted on September 26, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

Nursing students gather for ribbon cutting ceremony for nursing simulation lab in Windham Hospital

New simulation lab opens in Windham Hospital for Eastern nursing students
Lab is the only hospital-based nurse-training facility in eastern Connecticut

Eastern Connecticut State University and Hartford Healthcare unveiled a brand-new nursing simulation lab in Windham Hospital on Sept. 24. With Eastern students, state dignitaries, and Connecticut...

Posted on September 25, 2025 by Mike Rouleau

 Among the Six-Week Challenge trips is an apple-picking outing at Homberg Orchards in Gales Ferry on Sept. 21. 

Six-Week Challenge helps first-year students find their way at Eastern

A student’s first six weeks of college are critical in deciding whether that student will stay enrolled, according to housing staff at Eastern. To address this, Eastern's Six-Week...

Posted on September 17, 2025

An Eastern professor teaches a course.

Faculty workshop discusses equity and rigor in the classroom

Eastern's Center for Teaching, Learning, and Assessment (CTLA) hosted a workshop for faculty on Sept. 10 concerning the roles of equity and rigor when designing a course. Part of the...

Posted on September 16, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

"Sports Leadership in the 21st Century" cover

Kane to publish third edition of leadership textbook
‘Sports Leadership in the 21st Century’ to be published in December

Business administration Professor Gregory Kane will release the third edition of his textbook “Sports Leadership in the 21st Century” on Dec. 8. The book is co-authored by Laura J....

Posted on September 16, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

An image of a fire truck, via Shutterstock

New co-op program prepares students for emergency services careers
'Career Pathways Program' launches with ESPS Co-op

A new employability initiative at Eastern Connecticut State University will offer immersive learning experiences for students interested in a variety of career fields. Starting with a co-op program...

Posted on September 15, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

An open house participant examines the facsimile book of hours

Medieval artifacts find home in University archives
Eastern acquires 800-year-old manuscripts

A curation effort by a team of faculty members at Eastern Connecticut State University recently brought two medieval artifacts to the University Archives and Special Collections. Located on the...

Posted on September 15, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig ’26

Eastern Pride Center

Students explore new interests at annual involvement fair

Hundreds of students gathered at the Student Center Patio for Eastern’s annual Student Involvement Fair and President’s Picnic on Sept. 3. The event included 100 clubs, organizations,...

Posted on September 10, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B.

A State of Connecticut Train (Photo courtesy of Trevor Parzych)

U-Pass provides free transit to Eastern students

A new program for Eastern students provides unlimited free rides on most bus and train lines within the state of Connecticut. Through a partnership with the Office of Housing and Residential Life...

Posted on September 09, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

Sherrie Simoneau is an accomplished powerlifter

Warrior power lifter trains for success

A sophomore health sciences major at Eastern Connecticut State University balances her studies with barbells. Sherrie Simoneau is an up-and-coming powerlifter who went from soccer to...

Posted on September 05, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig '26

President Karim Ismaili at the semesterly University Meeting

Fall University Meeting outlines Eastern’s path forward
Administrators provide updates from budgets to belonging

The fall semester University Meeting kicked off the 2025-26 academic year on Aug. 22 with a packed agenda covering budgets, enrollment, organizational changes, new initiatives, and more. Hundreds...

Posted on September 03, 2025 by Michael Rouleau

'Eastern Passport' logo

‘Eastern Passport' benefits students, boosts local businesses
‘From tacos to sunglasses,’ students receive discounts

Eastern Connecticut State University is launching a new program in the fall 2025 semester aimed at spurring local businesses by encouraging students to explore downtown Willimantic. In coordination...

Posted on September 03, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

The Reinharts

Eastern sweethearts turn serial entrepreneurs
Jeff ’01 and Jessica Reinhart ’00 took a leap and launched an empire

The business empire of Jeff ’01 and Jessica Reinhart ’00 began with a call from an unlikely thought leader: their 14-year-old niece, Bella, who lived in Arizona. Bella had...

Posted on September 01, 2025 by Noel Teter ’24 

President Karim Ismaili

President’s Message
The Best of What We Are

It is an honor to lead this remarkable institution and to be part of a community that exemplifies the very best of public higher education. 

Posted on September 01, 2025

Gussie Sitkin

A Centenarian’s Journey
Gussie Sitkin ’43 on education, resilience, and 104 years of life

When Gussie (Paster) Sitkin ’43 arrived at Willimantic State Teachers College (WSTC) — now Eastern Connecticut State University — in 1939, life as she knew it was about to change.

Posted on September 01, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig ’26 and Michael Rouleau ‘11

Abby Dreyer

Becoming a Warrior
My journey to self-reliance and belonging

Going to college is one of the biggest transitions people experience in their lives. You’re away from home for the first time, solely responsible for your academic and social life, with the...

Posted on September 01, 2025 by Abigail Dreyer ‘28

The Bradley Family

A Family Affair
One alumnus sparks a multigenerational Eastern journey

It all started with Mark Bradley ’90. Since Bradley graduated from Eastern more than 30 years ago, generations of the Bradley family have followed in his footsteps, becoming Warriors and...

Posted on September 01, 2025 by Ed Osborn

For the Love of Sound

For the Love of Sound
Alumni couple creates premium headphones business

When they met two decades ago at Eastern in a scriptwriting class with Professor Edmond Chibeau, Zach ’06 and Bevin (Titcomb) Mehrbach ’07 had no idea about the romantic partnership...

Posted on September 01, 2025 by Noel Teter ‘24

Current and former members of Eastern's men's rugby team volunteer at the Special Olympics Rugby Clinic in 2024.

All = 1
Rugby alumni remain committed to club and cause

Eastern’s men’s rugby team has an ulterior motive. On the surface, it is a competitive and popular club sports team, known for its grit and sportsmanship. However, as committed as it is...

Posted on September 01, 2025 by Noel Teter '24 and Michael Rouleau '11

Kim Ward (left)

Four Decades of Opportunity
STEP/CAP’s Lasting Impact

Since the early 1980s, Eastern Connecticut State University’s Summer Transition to Eastern Program/Contract Admissions Program (STEP/CAP) has been helping students make a smooth and confident...

Posted on September 01, 2025 by Ed Osborn

Patrick Agyemang in game action for the United States Men's National Team.

From Warrior to World Stage
The Unstoppable Rise of Patrick Agyemang

A few years ago, Patrick Agyemang was just another determined college athlete — a confident striker from East Hartford playing Division III soccer at Eastern Connecticut State...

Posted on September 01, 2025 by Ryan Quigley and Noel Teter '24

Students gather at "Light the Way" ceremony

'Light the Way' kicks off fall semester
Ceremony marks a new Eastern tradition

Rihanna and Calvin Harris’ “This is What you Came For” played overhead as flashing lights and dancing incoming students filled Eastern’s Webb Lawn after sunset on Aug. 25....

Posted on August 29, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

The "Social Spark" team (left) celebrates the launch of the app.

‘Social Spark’: Recent graduates design app to streamline ‘going out’ experience

A group of several students and recent graduates from Eastern and the University of Connecticut recently launched an app intended to help college students make the most of a night out....

Posted on August 28, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

New Eastern students gather for the annual "E" photo at the start of the fall 2025 semester.

Eastern welcomes 1,000 new undergraduates in fall 2025

Eastern Connecticut State University began its 2025-26 academic year on Aug. 26, welcoming more than 1,000 new undergraduate students to its Willimantic campus. The new Warriors, comprising...

Posted on August 27, 2025 by Michael Rouleau

Rockville High School at the beginning of the bike-a-thon

Business professor bikes to fight hunger
Chatterton leads community effort to benefit Connecticut families

Eastern business administration Professor Charles Chatterton recently spearheaded a charity event utilizing biking and lacrosse on Aug. 22. The Rockville High School/North Central Connecticut...

Posted on August 27, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

A student conducts research at Dinosaur State Park in Rocky Hill, CT.

EES professors publish research on Dinosaur State Park
Hyatt, Drzewiecki examine Connecticut’s paleontological roots

Eastern Connecticut State University environmental earth science Professors Drew Hyatt and Peter Drzewiecki published several works in volume 66, issue 1, of the “Bulletin of the Yale...

Posted on August 26, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

A group of new full-time faculty members attend a faculty orientation..

Eastern welcomes 21 new professors for 2025–26 academic year

Eastern Connecticut State University is welcoming 21 new full-time professors to its faculty this academic year. Representing fields from history to nursing to finance, the cohort includes both new...

Posted on August 26, 2025 by Michael Rouleau

Junior finance major Ellis Thompson (second from left) with his team at Target

Business students gain experience via summer internships

This summer, dozens of students from the Business Division at Eastern gained professional experience through a myriad of internships. Each student exercised various professional skills they learned...

Posted on August 25, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

The Liberty Bank Foundation donates a $25,000 check to Eastern's business incubator.

Eastern partners with Liberty Bank, Town of Windham to boost local businesses
Partnership will develop small business resource center on campus

Eastern Connecticut State University, Liberty Bank, and the Town of Windham formalized a partnership on Aug. 19 to establish a small business resource center (SBRC) in Willimantic. During the...

Posted on August 25, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Residential Life Coordinator Emmanual Augustin poses with a cluster of students

RAs prepared to serve student residents in new academic year

The Office of Housing and Residential Life at Eastern hosted its annual resident assistant (RA) training workshop for 72 current campus RAs from Aug. 11 to 22. The training helped RAs cultivate key...

Posted on August 19, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig '26

Close-up of mycelial bio-block

Mushrooms as building materials
Biology researchers investigate new technology

Mushrooms — you see them in the woods, put them on salads, and inadvertently grow them on old bread. Soon, you could be living in them. Mycelial bio-blocks are building materials grown...

Posted on August 12, 2025 by Katie Gaspar

Natasha Gambrell '15 performs a traditional Eastern Pequot dance.

Natasha Gambrell ’15: ‘Everything I do is for my nation’
English alumna fights for federal recognition of Eastern Pequot tribe

Natasha Gambrell ’15 recalls the date — Oct. 12, 2005 — when United States federal recognition of her nation, the Eastern Pequots, was stripped away by the United States...

Posted on August 12, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

A graphic featuring Walter Scudder '25 on the soccer field.

Men’s soccer captain, aspiring physician named LEC Student-Athlete-of-the-Year
Walter Scudder: 'I tried to stay present and focus on the task at hand'

Walter Scudder ’25, a four-year starting midfielder and two-year captain on Eastern Connecticut State University’s men’s soccer team, was named one of three recipients of the...

Posted on August 12, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Global Field Course students go swimming in Italy

Eastern students immerse in Italian culture

Nineteen English students at Eastern embarked on an annual global field course to Florence, Italy, from June 22 to August 2. Titled "Creative Writing Abroad," the course was led by...

Posted on August 11, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Donaghy speaks at a creative writing event in the Student Center Betty Tipton Room.

Donaghy honored with CSU Professorship
Donaghy: 'I’m going to work every day for the rest of my career trying to be worthy'

Daniel Donaghy, professor of English at Eastern Connecticut State University, was recently awarded a Connecticut State University (CSU) Professorship in recognition of his professional...

Posted on August 11, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Business administration Professor Sukeshini Grandhi teaches a class in April 2022.

Grandhi appointed AAC&U senior fellow

Sukeshini Grandhi, professor of business administration at Eastern Connecticut State University, has been appointed a senior fellow with the American Association of Colleges and Universities...

Posted on August 05, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Dean of Students Kemesha Wilmot addresses STEP/CAP kids.

STEP/CAP readies hopeful students for college life

Now going strong for four decades, Eastern Connecticut State University hosted 44 hopeful first-year students during its annual Summer Transition at Eastern Program/Contract Admissions Program...

Posted on August 05, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Professor Garrett Dancik works with a duo of research students

Summer STEM program supports underrepresented students

Eighteen first- and second-year students majoring in STEM fields participated in a residential program this July meant to support historically underrepresented students in the sciences. Modeled...

Posted on July 25, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Erin Drouin '16 (left) and Renee Drouin '15 at an Honors Program reception at Eastern.

For Drouin sisters, road through Eastern leads to Ph.D.s

Erin (’16) and Renee (’15) Drouin have a close relationship as sisters — “above average closeness,” according to Erin. They also share the uncommon bond of both...

Posted on July 21, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Professors Josh Idjadi (left) and Brett Mattingly (second from left) lead a beach study session in the Bahamas.

Biology students dive into field research in the Bahamas

Thirteen biology students at Eastern submerged themselves in research on oceanic ecosystems as part of two global field courses (GFCs) on San Salvador Island in the Bahamas this past May 2025. The...

Posted on July 17, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

New students play rock paper scissors at SOAR

Incoming Warriors preview college during summer orientation

Members of Eastern Connecticut State University’s incoming Class of 2029 caught their first glimpse of college life during six different sessions of SOAR, an immersive two-day orientation...

Posted on July 08, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Coach Bill Holowaty speaks with the media at the naming of Holowaty Family Field.

Eastern names baseball field in honor of legendary Coach Bill Holowaty
Ceremony pays tribute to Eastern baseball ‘family’

Eastern Connecticut State University honored one of the most storied coaches in NCAA Division III history on June 28 with the formal naming of its baseball field as Holowaty Family Field. Taking...

Posted on July 08, 2025 by Michael Rouleau '11

Art professor June Bisantz poses next to sign

Longtime art professor designs signage for Mansfield Artwalk

A longtime faculty member at Eastern Connecticut State University has spearheaded a public art initiative that encapsulates Mansfield’s natural beauty and community identity. Art Professor...

Posted on July 07, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Students explore Arizona's wilderness.

EES students explore Arizona in field excursion
Students study geology, sedimentation, native heritage

From a snowstorm at the Grand Canyon to a climb up an active volcano, environmental earth science (EES) students at Eastern Connecticut State University experienced the natural wonders of Arizona...

Posted on July 07, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

headshot of Joe Hines

Intern to employed: BIS alum explains journey with The Hartford

An alumnus of Eastern’s business information systems program (BIS) recently advanced from his summer 2024 internship with insurance company The Hartford to a career position with the company....

Posted on July 07, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Opportunity Programs Director Christina Irizarry receives the Hartford Promise Above and Beyond Award.

Opportunity Programs director honored by Hartford Promise
Irizarry goes 'above and beyond' in student support

Christina Irizarry, director of opportunity programs at Eastern Connecticut State University, was recognized by a local college scholarship program for her efforts in serving the interests of...

Posted on July 03, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

The tournament's second-place foursome, representing TRC Environmental Corporation

Annual golf tournament raises $45,000 for ECSU Foundation

The ECSU Foundation hosted its annual golf tournament on June 18 at Mohegan Sun Golf Club in Baltic. Fifty-two golfers participated and the event raised $45,000, increasing the total amount raised...

Posted on July 01, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Group photo

Psychology students analyze lifespan development in Switzerland
Group explores 'forest kindergarten' and other eye-opening sites

Twenty-six students at Eastern Connecticut State University ventured to Switzerland as part of a course titled “PSY 471: Lifespan Development in Psychology,” from May 22 to June 2. The...

Posted on June 30, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

thumb

Barrows STEM Academy students present sustainability research at Eastern
Students focus on sustainable development in Puerto Rico

More than 60 eighth-graders from Charles H. Barrows STEM Academy presented their capstone research projects at Eastern Connecticut State University on June 6. The event was held in the Student...

Posted on June 18, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

thumb

Twin roles solidify Balcerski as a leading regional historian
Eastern faculty member named president, editor of 2 historical institutions

A faculty member in Eastern’s Department of History has recently taken major roles with two regional historical institutions. Professor Thomas Balcerski is the newly appointed president of...

Posted on June 18, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

thumb

Dean Emerita Carmen Cid honored with ESA service award

Carmen Cid, dean emerita at Eastern Connecticut State University, is the recipient of the 2025 Distinguished Service Citation from the Ecological Society of America (ESA), which recognizes long and...

Posted on June 12, 2025 by Ed Osborn

Moore

Moore earns Eastern’s only 2025 CSCU Faculty Award
Award recognizes exemplary research

History Professor Scott Moore is Eastern Connecticut State University’s only recipient of a 2025 Board of Regents (BOR) Faculty Award. Announced on May 30, Moore is one of three recipients...

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

thumb

Student curates exhibition on her artist grandfather
Art major Kate Moss honors the late Tom Gargiulo

The Art Gallery at Eastern Connecticut State University is currently presenting a colorful array of mixed-media art by Tom Gargiulo (1938-2022). Curated by his granddaughter, junior art major Kate...

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

thumb

Research institutes delve into data analytics, DNA sequencing, picture books

Eastern Connecticut State University began its summer session with three week-long summer research institutes, culminating in a final presentation on June 6 in the Student Center Theater. Students...

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Bachiochi

Bachiochi named Eastern’s Distinguished Professor of the Year
Serving psychology department, community for more than 25 years

Psychological science Professor Peter Bachiochi was named Eastern Connecticut State University’s 2025 Distinguished Professor of the Year, announced at the spring University Meeting this May....

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

thumb

Local law enforcers carry torch for Special Olympics

Law enforcement officials from Eastern Connecticut State University’s Department of Public Safety, Connecticut state troopers, and the Willimantic Police Department (WPD) participated in the...

Posted on June 09, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Big check photo

Stop & Shop donation supports Shawn's Cupboard
Local grocery store presents donation during grand re-opening

The Willimantic Stop & Shop grocery store presented Eastern with a generous donation in support of its efforts to combat food insecurity on campus. Presented during the store’s grand...

Posted on June 03, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Retiree group

Eastern honors retirees for decades of service
‘You are Eastern’s history’

Eastern Connecticut State University recently bid farewell to 20 dedicated employees who retired over the past year. These individuals served in a wide range of roles — from tenured faculty...

Posted on June 02, 2025 by Michael Rouleau

Teacher and professor

Growing dual enrollment program welcomes high school teacher-collaborators to campus

Seventy high school teachers and administrators from districts across Connecticut gathered in the Fine Arts Instructional Center foyer on May 22 for Eastern’s annual Dual Enrollment Day. The...

Posted on June 02, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

thumb

William Tong receives Eastern’s first Distinguished Public Service Award
Attorney general tells graduates: 'Fight for the nobodies'

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong delivered a deeply personal address at Eastern Connecticut State University this May when he received the inaugural Distinguished Public Service Award....

Posted on May 29, 2025 by Ed Osborn

conference photo

Eastern hosts community workshop on climate change, health equity

Eastern Connecticut State University hosted a community-focused climate change workshop in the J. Eugene Smith Library on May 22. The event, titled “Climate and Health: A Community...

Posted on May 29, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Mary Grant

Mary Grant gives powerful endorsement of the liberal arts at Eastern commencement
University president and friend of Eastern receives honorary degree

Mary Grant, president of the Massachusetts School of Art and Design, was the featured speaker at Eastern Connecticut State University’s 135th Commencement Exercises, held on May 20 at the XL...

Posted on May 29, 2025 by Ed Osborn

Ward and Bachiochi

Excellence Awards honor 8 outstanding faculty, staff members
Bachiochi named 2025 Distinguished Professor

Eight faculty and staff members received Excellence Awards at the close of the 2024-25 academic year, announced at the spring University Meeting on May 9. Awards recognized outstanding teaching,...

Posted on May 21, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

happy graduates

'The Future is Bright': Eastern graduates 900 at 135th commencement

More than 900 undergraduate students from Eastern Connecticut State University crossed the stage at the XL Center in Hartford on May 20, celebrating the University's 135th Commencement...

Posted on May 21, 2025 by Michael Rouleau '11

memorial wreath

Eastern PD honors fallen 'peace officers'

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Department of Public Safety recognized first responders who have lost their lives in the line of duty in a ceremony on May 15, known as Peace Officers...

Posted on May 21, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

winners

Library research awards honor outstanding scholarship
Projects span globalization in Russia, depression, revisionist history, and pre-term birth

The J. Eugene Smith Library's 2025 Library Research Awards honored four students for outstanding scholarship on May 16. Seniors Emma McCormack and Saoirse Ward received the awards, while...

Posted on May 21, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

umeeting

University Meeting focuses on planning, recognition, resilience

Faculty and staff filled the Student Center’s Betty R. Tipton Room on May 9 for the spring University Meeting. As the academic year draws to a close, the gathering recognized employee...

Posted on May 20, 2025 by Michael Rouleau

Josiah Gardner and family

Graduate Division confers 100 master’s degrees
Attorney General William Tong receives inaugural Distinguished Public Service Award

Eastern Connecticut State University celebrated the graduation of nearly 100 master’s degree students at its Graduate Division Commencement on May 17 at the Fine Arts Instructional Center...

Posted on May 20, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

thumb

Graduating artists celebrated at Senior Art Exhibition

The Department of Art and Art History at Eastern Connecticut State University invited its graduating seniors to showcase their masterpieces at the annual Senior Art Exhibition in the Fine Arts...

Posted on May 19, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

thumb

Fun Mud Day brings spirited fun for young children

Eastern’s Child and Family Development Resource Center (CFDRC) hosted children from its program and from E.O. Smith High School in Mansfield for its 11th annual “Fun Mud Day.” The...

Posted on May 15, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

thumb

Military students thrive on campus

Students from military backgrounds -- whether actively serving or veterans -- have long called Eastern Connecticut State University home. Several current students, on active duty and retired,...

Posted on May 15, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Panorama of NEALSB conference

Eastern hosts regional business conference

Will artificial intelligence (AI) help reduce government corruption? What roles does the virtue of honor play in American law? These were some of the questions explored by three Eastern Connecticut...

Posted on May 15, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

Lamont

Governor Lamont discusses globalization, housing, and DEI with students

Governor Ned Lamont visited Eastern Connecticut State University on May 6, where he met with university administrators and students during a productive and thoughtful campus visit. After a meeting...

Posted on May 15, 2025 by Michael Rouleau

Panorama of "Psychapalooza" poster presentations

‘Psychapalooza’ showcases undergraduate research

From examining the impacts of microaggressions to analyzing how videogames influence stress, more than 50 undergraduate psychology students gathered in the Student Center Betty Tipton Room (BTR) on...

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

thumb

Political science honor society hosts discussion on housing crisis
State Department of Housing joins Pi Sigma Alpha

Eastern’s chapter of the Pi Sigma Alpha National Political Science Honor Society hosted a discussion on housing issues on May 7 in the Gelsi-Young Hall Connecticut Room. In collaboration with...

Posted on May 12, 2025

thumb

'Here' poetry journal covers emotional trials and tribulations

Daniel Donaghy, professor of English at Eastern Connecticut State University, has curated works for the seventh issue of the “Here” poetry journal. The publication gets hundreds of...

Posted on May 07, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

thumb

Spring Fest concludes vivacious academic year

The Campus Activity Board (CAB) at Eastern Connecticut State University concluded a year of events with its annual Spring Fest celebration. The week-long festival commemorated students' hard...

Posted on May 07, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Student attendees at SHAPE American Convention and Exposition

Physical education students win big at SHAPE national convention

Eight physical education (PE) students at Eastern Connecticut State University earned top accolades at the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) America National Convention and...

Posted on May 07, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

Barnard scholars

Eastern names 2025 Barnard Scholars
Two graduating seniors earn CSCU's top honor

Eastern Connecticut State University has named its two 2025 recipients of the Henry Barnard Distinguished Student Award, the most prestigious undergraduate honor given by the Connecticut State...

Posted on May 07, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Bloomberg Connects logo

Art Gallery featured in Bloomberg Connects guide

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Art Gallery is now proudly featured in a guide on Bloomberg Connects, an app designed to connect users with more than 750 museums and other cultural...

Posted on May 06, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Students donate blood.

Strong blood-drive turnout supports Red Cross
Campus Ministry's ongoing partnership saves lives

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Campus Ministry continues to support the American Red Cross by coordinating blood drives throughout the academic year, helping to address the ongoing...

Posted on May 06, 2025 by Darlene Orozco b. '28

House of D cast.

'House of D' takes viewers behind the bars of infamous women's prison
Art exhibition culminates in theatrical production

The Department of Communication, Film, and Theatre at Eastern Connecticut State University presented its final main stage production of the year with “The Prison That Made America:...

Posted on May 06, 2025 by Darlene Orozco b. '28

Students beautify Willimantic.

'Town Pride Town Wide' beautifies Willimantic
CCE mobilizes student volunteers

Eastern students volunteered throughout Willimantic for the Center for Community Engagement's annual Town Pride Town Wide event on April 27. Dozens of students performed a variety of tasks at...

Posted on May 06, 2025 by Darlene Orozco b. '28

Belles

David Belles, architect of choral program, conducts final concert

David Belles, professor of music at Eastern for 23 years and longtime conductor of Eastern’s Concert Chorale and Chamber Singers, conducted his final concert on April 28. After this academic...

Posted on May 06, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Student demonstration at Tiny Earth Day

Biology department continues antibiotic crowd-sourcing effort
Eastern hosts Norwich Free Academy for Tiny Earth Day

High school students from Norwich Free Academy (NFA) visited Eastern on April 23 for “Tiny Earth Day,” a global project that aims to inspire students in science and address antibiotic...

Posted on May 05, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

thumb

25th CREATE conference highlights undergraduate excellence

The scholarly and artistic aptitude of Eastern students was proudly exhibited at the 25th annual CREATE conference on April 25. Standing for "Celebrating Research and Creative Activity at...

Posted on May 02, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Provost Wilson

Eastern names Cheryl A. Wilson new provost, VP of academic affairs

Cheryl A. Wilson, current dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at State University of New York–Old Westbury, has been named the new provost and vice president for academic affairs at...

Posted on May 01, 2025 by Ed Osborn

Scholarship winner at Accounting Banquet

29th Accounting Banquet celebrates future of ‘data storytellers’

Approximately 150 accounting students, alumni, and faculty came together on April 24 for the 29th annual Accounting Banquet, a celebration of department-wide successes that highlighted alumni...

Posted on May 01, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

thumb

Girasoli publishes textbook on psychological research methods

Anthony Girasoli, lecturer of psychological science at Eastern Connecticut State University, recently published his first textbook. “Research Methods and Applied Statistics” blends...

Posted on April 23, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Winners at CCE Service Expo

CCE Service Expo recognizes student leaders, volunteers

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Center for Community Engagement (CCE) hosted its CCE Service Expo and Awards ceremony on April 15 in the Fine Arts Instructional Center Susan Sukman...

Posted on April 22, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Cunningham

Symposium highlights faculty scholarship
'Engaged faculty make engaged students'

Faculty prowess and research were on display April 10 during a symposium featuring "lightning talks" and a panel discussion on the liberal arts.

Posted on April 22, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Nine Eastern students presented at NCUR

Students delve 'beyond the research' at NCUR
Nine present at National Conference on Undergraduate Research

From artificial intelligence (AI) on Mars to the impacts of cult brainwashing on parenting, nine Eastern students showcased their work at the 2025 National Conference on Undergraduate Research...

Posted on April 22, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

thumb

WECS Radio Club broadcasts beats and benevolence
Eastern’s resident radio hosts speak on the air

Eastern Connecticut State University’s WECS Radio Club has been home to a myriad of dynamic radio shows and their equally engaging hosts since 2009. The club’s focus is to provide a...

Posted on April 21, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

harm reduction experts panel

Eastern convenes forum on harm reduction and the opioid crisis

In light of the ongoing opioid addiction crisis, Eastern Connecticut State University hosted an event titled "Building Partnerships in Eastern Connecticut to Address the Opioid Epidemic"...

Posted on April 17, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

Author and survivor Sarah Gallardo

Students advocate for relationship-violence survivors
Women's Center holds annual Take Back the Night

Faculty, students, community partners, and advocates gathered at the Student Center on April 9 to be part of Eastern's annual “Take Back the Night” event. Organized by the...

Posted on April 17, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

group photo

Cheerleading team returns to national stage

Eastern’s cheerleading club traveled to Daytona Beach, FL, to compete in the National Cheerleading Association (NCA) and National Dance Association (NDA) College Nationals tournament on April...

Posted on April 17, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Mace

Karim Ismaili inaugurated as Eastern’s seventh president
Ceremony celebrates a leader dedicated to student success and the power of education

April 11, 2025, marked a momentous occasion for Eastern Connecticut State University, as the campus community celebrated the inauguration of President Karim Ismaili. The day’s events centered...

Posted on April 14, 2025 by Michael Rouleau

Students at USITCC

BIS-ITSA wins top honors at national IT conference
Students excel at USITCC

Six students from Eastern’s Business Information Systems/Information Technology Students of America (BIS-ITSA) club traveled to Springfield, MI, this past March to compete in the United...

Posted on April 14, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

thumb

Eastern inspires young writers with literary festival
Poet Frederick D. Knowles '99 tells students to "write, write, write"

The Department of English at Eastern Connecticut State University hosted its third annual Literary Festival for High School Students on April 4 in the Student Center. Coordinated by English...

Posted on April 09, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Official portrait of President Elsa M. Núñez

Eastern unveils portrait of former President Núñez

Eastern Connecticut State University is presenting for the first time the new portrait of recently retired President Elsa M. Núñez from April 7–27 in the Art Gallery as part of...

Posted on April 09, 2025 by Ed Osborn

TheDream.Us seniors

Dream Awards celebrate academic, leadership excellence
Ceremony honors TheDream.US students

Eastern's Office of Opportunity Programs hosted the “Dream Awards,” where under-documented students were recognized for their achievements and TheDream.US class of 2025 received...

Posted on April 08, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

Students check in at Accepted Students Day

Accepted Students Day draws record crowd
From mock classes to campus tours, prospective students contemplate Eastern

Eastern Connecticut State University welcomed more than 300 prospective students and 1,000 visitors to Accepted Students Day on March 29, the largest ASD event since the COVID-19 pandemic....

Posted on April 07, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

Scene of 'Summerhill'

‘Summerhill’ challenges and entrances audiences
Student-directed play puts twist on generational trauma and identity

The Department of Communication, Film, and Theatre at Eastern Connecticut State University held a one-night sold out performance of “Summerhill,” an original play written and directed...

Posted on April 07, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig '26

Murphy at podium

University Hour promotes liberal arts in the age of STEM

Eastern’s University Hour series continued on April 2 with a conversation about the liberal arts with communication Lecturer John Murphy. "Defending Liberal Arts in the STEM Age—A...

Posted on April 07, 2025 by Darlene Orozco

history conference

Students make history at system-wide conference
Eastern hosts CSU Making History Conference

History students at Eastern Connecticut State University and visiting students from other Connecticut State Universities (CSUs) presented research at the CSU Making History Conference on March 28...

Posted on April 04, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

thumb

Warriors slay the runway in Fashion Forward

Eastern Connecticut State University’s resident fashion enthusiasts are taking Eastern merch to a new level this spring. The Fashion Forward club on campus is dedicated to establishing a...

Posted on April 03, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

awardees

Social justice awards honor 3 student activists
Awards reflect values of King, Chavez, Grasso

Eastern Connecticut State University’s 2025 Equity and Social Justice Awards recently honored three students for their commitment to civil rights, systemic change, and advocating for...

Posted on April 03, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Habitat for Humanity students work on building house

Habitat for Humanity builds home for family in need
Student organization spends spring break in South Carolina

Over spring break, Eastern’s chapter of Habitat for Humanity traveled to Lake View, SC, dedicating their time, labor, and resources to help construct a home for a family in need. The mission...

Posted on April 03, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

Fanita Borges and Marisol Rodriguez

Latina professionals share stories of determination and success

Eastern’s Women’s Center, Organization of Latin American Students (OLAS), and Office of Career Services hosted "Latina Excellence,” an event celebrating the stories of two...

Posted on April 02, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

Alex Rodriguez

Environmental justice expert highlights challenges in Connecticut’s Latino communities

Eastern’s University Hour series continued on March 26 with a lecture by Alex Rodriguez, an environmental justice specialist with the regional nonprofit organization Save the Sound. The talk...

Posted on April 02, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

Kyle Lukoff at educational lecture

Award-winning children’s author shares insights with education students
Newbery Honoree Kyle Lukoff visits campus

Eastern welcomed acclaimed children’s author Kyle Lukoff to an educational lecture, Q&A session, and book signing on March 25. The event, attended by more than 40 students, faculty, and...

Posted on March 31, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

Dr. Mary K. Grant (left), and Attorney General William Tong (right)

Eastern names 2025 commencement speakers
William Tong and Dr. Mary Grant to be honored for service and leadership

Eastern Connecticut State University is proud to announce the keynote speakers for its 2025 commencement ceremonies. At the University’s 135th Undergraduate Commencement on May 20 at the XL...

Posted on March 28, 2025 by Michael Rouleau

Perez

Pérez studies Cuba tourism with Wesleyan fellowship
Anthropolgy professor's research investigates environmental impact

Eastern anthropology Professor Ricardo Pérez is spending the spring 2025 semester as a visiting research fellow in the Center for the Humanities at Wesleyan University. He is working on a book...

Posted on March 25, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

thumb

Eastern alumna excels as appellate public defender
Ruth Burke '20 passes bar, begins legal career

An alumna of the Department of Political Science, Philosophy, and Geography at Eastern Connecticut State University recently passed the Connecticut Bar Exam and now works as an appellate attorney....

Posted on March 24, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Women’s Center hosts ‘Women in Sports’ panel

Female student-athletes discuss being women in sports

Four student athletes joined Eastern’s Women’s Center on March 10 for a “Women in Sports” panel. Celeste Petrowsky, Emily Jones, Natasha Frisch, and Taylor Smith represented...

Posted on March 24, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

film screening

2 professor-producers screen 'Stepping into the Shade' documentary

Two professors at Eastern Connecticut State University recently shared their documentary series detailing the culturally rich history of Connecticut tobacco farming. An on-campus screening of...

Posted on March 24, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Narcan training

Eastern expands naloxone access to combat opioid crisis

In an effort to combat the ongoing nationwide opioid crisis and enhance campus safety, Eastern has installed public-access naloxone boxes across campus. Commonly known by its brand name Narcan,...

Posted on March 17, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

Unhidden

Business pitch competition showcases 'big ideas'

Eastern students showcased their entrepreneurial abilities at the second annual Big Idea Pitch Competition on March 5. Held in the Paul E. Johnson Sr. Community Conference Room of the J. Eugene...

Posted on March 17, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

group shot

2nd annual QUTE conference provides high schoolers with resources, connection

“Our differences make the Eastern community strong,” said LaMar Coleman, vice president of the Office of Equity and Diversity, as he welcomed local high school students to the second...

Posted on March 17, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

thumb

Acclaimed author Andrew Krivak to conclude Eastern’s Big Read program on April 8
Krivak to explore humanity’s legacy and other themes of 'The Bear'

Eastern Connecticut State University’s 2024-25 Big Read program will conclude on April 8 with a special keynote event featuring Andrew Krivak, acclaimed author of “The...

Posted on March 12, 2025 by Michael Rouleau

CCE students at VCU

Eastern community engagement on display at IMPACT conference

Two civic engagement groups at Eastern traveled to Richmond, VA, for the IMPACT conference on Feb. 27 at Virginia Commonwealth University. Eastern’s Jumpstart group and its local host, the...

Posted on March 12, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

thumb

'Under a Starry Sky' gives auctioneers an enchanted evening

The Department of Music at Eastern held a fundraiser for its opera theatre program in the form of an elegant silent auction and cocktail hour on March 8 in the Fine Arts Instructional Center...

Posted on March 12, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

BIS students talking about careers

BIS-ITSA helps students develop dynamic graduation plans

On Oct. 30, the Business Information Systems - IT Students of America (BIS-ITSA) club hosted their first Eastern-In-4 ELAC (Enhanced Liberal Arts Curriculum) advising workshop for new BIS students...

Posted on March 06, 2025

thumb

BIS-ITSA hosts first 'employability jumpstart'

The Business Information Systems - IT Students of America (BIS-ITSA) club hosted its inaugural Employability Jumpstart Event on Jan. 29 with 92 undergraduate students attending. The purpose of the...

Posted on March 06, 2025

thumb

Eastern inducts 32 students into ODK leadership honor society

32 students and two faculty members at Eastern Connecticut State University were inducted into Eastern’s chapter of the Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK) Leadership Honor Society on March 2 in the...

Posted on March 05, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

thumb

'Undocumented Archipelago' provides new take on human migration

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Department of World Languages and Culture hosted a lecture by Glorimarie Peña Alicea during University Hour on Feb. 26 in the Student Center Theatre.

Posted on March 05, 2025 by Darlene Orozco

thumb

'Zoomers' delivers witty take on Gen-Z life
Play explores human connections in a disconnected world

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Department of Communication, Film and Theatre (CFT) presented the play “Zoomers,” written by Matthew Gasda and directed by CFT Professor...

Posted on March 05, 2025 by Darlene Orozco

panel guests

Biology alumni talk job search and opportunities

Eastern’s Department of Biology welcomed three alumni to present a special career panel on Feb. 28. Natalie Cummins ’19, Scott Forbes ’24, and Jessica Tyrrell ’18 gave...

Posted on March 05, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

DeVivo (left) and Johnson

Local politicians visit Eastern for environmental panel discussion
Panel is part of Eastern’s Big Read program

Windham Mayor Tom DeVivo and Connecticut State Rep. Susan Johnson visited Eastern Connecticut State University for a panel discussion on March 4 in the Fine Arts Instructional Center Proscenium...

Posted on March 05, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Julian Akus

Son of influential art professor, Julian Akus, donates father’s works to Eastern

Eastern’s Art Gallery recently received a donation of about 40 paintings created by a key figure in the art program’s history. Jan Akus, son of former art Professor and Department Chair...

Posted on March 04, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

thumb

Rukgaber's new book reimagines bygone philosophical movement
'The Human as the Other' revisits philosophical anthropolgy

Philosophy Professor Matthew Rukgaber of Eastern Connecticut State University recently published a book examining an early 20th-century philosophical movement that blended with science to analyze...

Posted on February 28, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

thumb

Engaged on stage: Music alumni reflect on Eastern love story

Two newly engaged alumni of the music program recently shared their love story following their on-campus marriage proposal this winter. Adam Benway ‘24 proposed to Sarah Burkart ‘23 on...

Posted on February 28, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Students who won awards at International Mother Language Day's Trivia

Mother Language Day celebrates linguistic rights and diversity

Eastern welcomed students, faculty and staff to celebrate International Mother Language Day (IMLD) on Feb. 21. The event celebrates linguistic and cultural diversity, as well as the Bangladeshi...

Posted on February 28, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

legislative breakfast

Eastern advocates for increased state funding at legislative breakfast
Students voice support for Eastern's future

Eastern Connecticut State University hosted a legislative breakfast on Feb. 20, advocating for increased state funding as lawmakers work to finalize Connecticut’s upcoming two-year budget....

Posted on February 24, 2025 by Michael Rouleau

Audience at the art reception

Art exhibition ponders a world of 'no maps and no borders’
Big Read-inspired show explores nature’s resilience

The Art Gallery at Eastern held a reception for the exhibition “When There Were No Maps and No Borders: The Grandeur of Nature” on Feb. 18 at 5 p.m. The exhibition will be on display...

Posted on February 20, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

Student registering to be a donor.

Students register to donate bone marrow and change lives

Eastern Connecticut State University’s men’s soccer team hosted a donor registry in partnership with the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) on Feb. 18 in the Sports Center. The...

Posted on February 20, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

From left: Cocca, Rankins, Valeta

Eastern premieres ‘The College Tour’ episode starring students
Amazon Prime series showcases Eastern students and campus

Audience members filled Eastern’s Concert Hall on Feb. 19 for an exclusive premiere of the Amazon Prime Video series “The College Tour,” which features an episode dedicated to...

Posted on February 20, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

Group photo from KCACTF

Theatre program represents at Kennedy Center festival
Students, alumni and faculty assist in live productions, earn accolades

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Department of Communication, Film and Theatre (CFT) sent 16 students and two alumni to the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF),...

Posted on February 19, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

thumb

Eastern preserves Black history at Douglass Day 'transcribe-a-thon'

Students and faculty members at Eastern Connecticut State University gathered in the Paul E. Johnson Community Conference Room of the J. Eugene Smith Library to participate in the annual nationwide...

Posted on February 19, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Students explore the diverse academic programs Eastern has to offer.

Students explore majors at speed dating event

Eastern invited students to explore its diverse academic programs on Feb. 10 during an event titled “Speed Dating with the Majors.” The event featured student speakers sharing their...

Posted on February 18, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

asian studies thumb

Folktales and culture come alive at Asian Studies Expo

The Department of Art and Art History at Eastern held its biannual Asian Studies Expo in the Fine Arts Instructional Center Art Gallery from Jan. 31 to Feb. 14. Coordinated by art Professor Soojin...

Posted on February 18, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Michelle Riordan-Nold, executive director of the Connecticut Data Collaborative (CTData)

CTData director encourages turning data into action
Michelle Riordan-Nold promotes data as gateway to social justice

Eastern featured special guest Michelle Riordan-Nold, executive director of the Connecticut Data Collaborative (CTData), for University Hour on Feb. 12 in the Student Center Theatre. The event was...

Posted on February 18, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

Scott Tarulli

Touring musician discusses creative process during University Hour

Eastern’s spring 2025 University Hour series continued Feb. 5 with a talk featuring jazz guitarist Scott Tarulli, who shared his experiences as a professional musician and offered advice to...

Posted on February 11, 2025 by Darlene Orozco '28

Annamaria Lusardi

‘We are our own CFO’: Stanford professor preaches financial literacy
Annamaria Lusardi presents at University Hour

Eastern Connecticut State University welcomed Stanford University’s Annamaria Lusardi as the first University Hour speaker of the spring semester on Feb. 3. In her presentation, “The...

Posted on February 11, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

Nyla Graham (left)

Black History Month kick-off celebrates solidarity, community

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Intercultural Center (IC) hosted its annual Black History Month kick-off event on Feb. 3. The event featured students from various backgrounds coming...

Posted on February 05, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

thumb

Student Center showcases clubs and cultural centers

Eastern’s Student Center welcomed more than 200 students on Jan. 29 as the Office of Student Activities and the Arthur L. Johnson Unity Wing hosted their semesterly club fair and open house....

Posted on February 04, 2025 by Kyle Berson

Pasquerella (left)

AAC&U president reaffirms higher education’s public purpose
Dr. Lynn Pasquerella: ‘It’s about educating for democracy’

One of the nation’s leading advocates for higher education, Dr. Lynn Pasquerella, visited Eastern Connecticut State University on Jan. 30 for a special discussion with students, faculty, and...

Posted on February 04, 2025 by Michael Rouleau '11

Scot X. Esdaile, President CT State Conference NAACP

MLK celebration highlights legacy of justice and activism
Event convenes Eastern and NAACP communities

“Are you willing to move backward or are you willing to fight to move forward?” said Rodney Alexander, vice president of the Willimantic chapter of the National Association for the...

Posted on February 04, 2025 by Darlene Orozco '28

Plunge

Droves plunge into local river to support soup kitchen
Hundreds turn out for 14th Plunge for Hunger

The 14th annual Olga Ezis Plunge for Hunger took place Feb. 1 at 12 p.m. at Lauter Park in Willimantic. Hosted by Eastern Connecticut State University’s men’s rugby team, the event...

Posted on February 04, 2025 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

Ian Valeta

Well-rounded computer science major earns international honor society scholarship

Ian Valeta, a senior computer science major at Eastern Connecticut State University, has become involved on campus in a variety of ways. Most recently, he was accepted into Upsilon Pi Epsilon...

Posted on February 03, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

CABin Fever game show

'CABin Fever' breaks the ice as students return to campus

Eastern’s Campus Activity Board (CAB) kicked off the spring semester with “CABin Fever,” a week-long series of events from Jan. 22-26. The exciting itinerary featured a variety of...

Posted on January 31, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

Nursing students at the White Coat ceremony.

Nursing students take oath during first ‘white coat ceremony'
Inaugural ceremony is a milestone for new nursing program

“You’re about to embark on a profession that is challenging as it is rewarding and complex as it is beautiful,” said registered nurse Ashley Cote, addressing Eastern’s first...

Posted on January 28, 2025 by Kyle Berson

Rugby team members volunteer at the Covenant Soup Kitchen on Christmas 2024.

Rugby alumni remain committed to team and community

Eastern’s men’s rugby has an ulterior motive. On the surface, it is a competitive and popular club sports team, known for its grit and good sportsmanship. However, as committed as it is...

Posted on January 23, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

thumb

‘The best of who we are’: University Meeting kicks off spring 2025
Ismaili recaps Listening and Learning Tour

Faculty and staff gathered for the semesterly University Meeting on Jan. 17 to hear administrative updates prior to the start of the spring 2025 semester. In addition to recognizing longstanding...

Posted on January 22, 2025 by Michael Rouleau

thumb

Eastern represents at 'the beating heart of the historical profession’

A history student and professor at Eastern Connecticut State University recently took a national stage to share their work on the sociopolitical impacts of three cornerstones of American culture:...

Posted on January 21, 2025 by Noel Teter

thumb

Eastern’s greenhouse is a sanctuary for imperiled plants

The greenhouse within the David G. Carter Science Building is home to a garden of elusive plants. The Department of Biology has been working to cultivate rare and endangered plants from around the...

Posted on January 16, 2025 by Elisabeth Craig

Professor Bryan Connolly with the plant "Stay Classy"

Eastern botanist breeds novel plants
Connolly's latest cultivar receives patent

Botanist and biology Professor Bryan Connolly has a knack for breeding novel plant cultivars. His partner in this ongoing effort is Mark Brand, professor of horticulture and plant breeding at the...

Posted on January 15, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

thumb

Guarnieri ’03 channels radio's 'golden age' to connect with community

Christine Guarnieri ’03 is on a mission to promote history and to serve the Willimantic community. Her medium? Eastern’s on-campus radio station and the legacy of old-time radio.

Posted on January 09, 2025 by Noel Teter