Alumni and Friends

Watch: Hundreds take the Plunge for Hunger
Annual rugby fundraiser supports local soup kitchen

Hundreds of Eastern students, alumni, and Willimantic community members gathered at Philip Lauter Park in Willimantic to support community members facing food insecurity at the 15th annual Olga...

Posted on February 26, 2026 by Kyle Berson '26

Anthropology Day explores contemporary human issues

Eastern’s Department of Sociology, Anthropology, Criminology, and Social Work held an all-day celebration in recognition of “Anthropology Day” on Feb. 19 in the Student Center....

Posted on February 26, 2026 by Noel Teter '24

Alumna champions liberal arts on Capitol Hill
Grace Carlos ’23 speaks at COPLAC legislative breakfast

Political science alumna Grace Carlos ‘23 represented Eastern Connecticut State University at the Council of Public Liberal Arts Colleges’ (COPLAC) legislative breakfast on Jan. 22 in...

Posted on January 29, 2026

Steve Emt ’03 inspires others to be ‘their own hero’
Decorated curler prepares for Winter Paralympics

Steve Emt '03 knows all about adversity — a March 1995 car accident left him paralyzed below the waist. Today, Emt is a world-class wheelchair curling champion. When not competing on the...

Posted on January 08, 2026 by Ed Osborn

4 alumni take the helm as school principals

Since its founding in 1889 as a normal school tasked with preparing primary school teachers, Eastern Connecticut State University has seen thousands of teaching candidates graduate to become...

Posted on January 08, 2026 by Ed Osborn

‘He is still teaching me’
A student-professor bond spans 40 years

When Robert “Bob” Polito ’86 retired from his job as senior vice president at Webster Bank in 2019, he found he had a bit of time on his hands. COVID-19 exploded a few months...

Posted on December 30, 2025 by Ed Osborn

Brian Betesh ‘05 named Connecticut Teacher of the Year

Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont and Connecticut Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker recognized Eastern alum Brian Betesh ’05 as the 2026 Connecticut Teacher of the Year this...

Posted on December 22, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

Biology alumni forge careers in genetics and neurobiology
Charnysh ’17 and Zlotnick ’23 discuss careers post Eastern

Where does a biology degree at Connecticut’s public liberal arts university get you? For Liz Charnysh ’17 and Kristine Zlotnick ’23, an Eastern education helped launch careers in...

Posted on December 16, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

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

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

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

'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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 

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

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
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

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

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

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

‘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

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

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

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

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

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

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

'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

'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

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

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

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

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

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

Alumna Jessica Chapman ’11 wins prestigious Milken Educator Award
Chapman is Connecticut’s only 2024 recipient, one of 45 nationwide

Eastern Connecticut State University alumna Jessica Chapman ’11, a history and social studies teacher at Norwich Free Academy (NFA), was recently surprised with one of the nation’s top...

Posted on December 12, 2024 by Noel Teter '24

Fall semester graduates celebrated at reception

Eastern Connecticut State University hosted a reception on Dec. 4 at the Fine Arts Instructional Center lobby for December 2024 graduates, celebrating a milestone in the students' lives.

Posted on December 10, 2024 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

Walner Homere ’95: From STEP/CAP to the White House
Proud alum honored at Haitian Diaspora Celebration

Walner Homere’s educational beginnings were humble. Originally from Haiti, Homere was left with limited options for higher education after scoring a 670 on his SAT. After applying to Eastern...

Posted on December 03, 2024 by Noel Teter '24

Answering the Call
Alumni forge careers in emergency response and public service

From public health to emergency services, many Eastern Connecticut State University alumni are leaving their mark on communities as dedicated first responders. Through a diverse range of...

Posted on November 26, 2024 by Noel Teter ’24

Education by Design
Catching up with alumni who created an individualized major

The right side of your brain says, “I want to be a ballet dancer,” but the left side says, “Let’s study astronomy.” That was yesterday. Today you can’t decide...

Posted on November 26, 2024 by Ed Osborn

Business alumni share professional experiences at networking event

Eastern Connecticut State University alumni returned to campus on Nov. 20 to participate in a networking event for the Department of Business Administration. The event showcased a range of career...

Posted on November 26, 2024 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

Athletics

Warriors softball wins 4th championship in 5 years; Outdoor track & field claims LEC title; 4 Warriors inducted into Athletics Hall of Fame; Kyle Gallo named golf coach; and more.

Posted on November 25, 2024

#WarriorsGive campaign raises $60,000 for students
Kalber family provides $20,000 boost

The 9th annual #WarriorsGive online campaign generated more than $60,000 for Eastern students over three days this November. With a $20,000 matching gift from Theresa Kalber ’70 and her...

Posted on November 21, 2024 by Michael Rouleau

College of Business spotlights new HR minor at networking event

Eastern Connecticut State University’s College of Business promoted its new minor in human resources (HR) on Nov. 11 at a career and networking event. The event brought together students and...

Posted on November 21, 2024 by Kyle Berson '26

History alum connects with his Armenian heritage through volunteering

An alumnus of the history program at Eastern Connecticut State University has spent the past few months in Armenia through a volunteer program called Birthright Armenia. Ara Daglian ‘18 has...

Posted on November 12, 2024 by Elisabeth Craig '26

Alumna donates West African artifacts to Art Gallery
'Jane Gold’s African Treasures' celebrate Mandinka cultural

This past October, the Art Gallery presented “Jane Gold’s African Treasures” during a temporary exhibition, displaying a variety of Mandinka and other West African cultural items....

Posted on November 07, 2024 by Kyle Berson '26

Biology alum shares animal rescue journey at Mystic Aquarium

“Every day is different,” said Eastern Connecticut State University alumna Jessica Verrato at a seminar on Oct. 25, as part of Eastern’s Biology Seminar Series.

Posted on October 31, 2024 by Kyle Berson

Psychology alum featured in APA magazine

Brett Gelino ’16, a graduate of the psychology program at Eastern Connecticut State University, was recently featured in an American Psychological Association (APA) publication for his work...

Posted on October 14, 2024 by Noel Teter

Generations unite at Alumni and Family Day
Class of 1974 celebrates 50 years

Eastern Connecticut State University’s campus was abuzz on Oct. 5, as more than 1,000 alumni, students and family members gathered for the annual Alumni and Family Day. The day-long event...

Posted on October 10, 2024 by Michael Rouleau

Jeff Benedict ’91 screens Emmy-winning film and offers storytelling advice

Two days before winning an Emmy for his Netflix documentary, “Poisoned: The Dirty Truth About Your Food,” Jeff Benedict ’91 returned to Eastern Connecticut State University on...

Posted on October 02, 2024 by Noel Teter

Accounting Fair draws praise and crowds
Annual event highlights alumni connections and student talent

The accounting program at Eastern hosted its annual Accounting Fair on Sept. 19, drawing a strong turnout from both firms and students alike. The event, which has been a staple at Eastern for more...

Posted on October 02, 2024 by Michael Rouleau

2 recent Eastern alumni accepted into medical school

Eastern Connecticut State University biology alumni Madison Greenfield ’20 and Catrina Sullivan ’22 have been accepted into medical school programs for the fall 2024 semester.

Posted on September 10, 2024 by Noel Teter

10 years after classes, Megan Saunders ’15 still raises her hand
Seizing opportunity leads alumna to Emmy award

Megan Saunders ’15, senior producer at NBCUniversal Local in Boston, MA, understands the importance of creating opportunities for oneself. Due in part to this self-motivation, Saunders led...

Posted on July 09, 2024 by Noel Teter

ECSU Foundation Golf Tournament finds success at new course

The annual ECSU Foundation Golf Tournament took place on June 20 at Mohegan Sun Golf Club in Baltic. This marked the first year the tournament was held at Mohegan Sun following long stints at Lake...

Posted on June 25, 2024 by Noel Teter

DiMauro '24 races in celebration of Class of 2024

On a campus where students can blend in effortlessly, one senior at Eastern Connecticut State University will soon race around a local competitive track wearing a helmet signed by his classmates.

Posted on May 07, 2024 by Noel Teter

Eastern seniors pursue advanced degrees after graduation

Recent graduates prepared for advanced degree programs

With the Class of 2024 recently graduated, many of Eastern's newest alumni are beginning their careers while others are choosing to continue their studies in advanced degree programs.

Posted on May 07, 2024 by Marcus Grant

28th Accounting Banquet encourages students to seek opportunities at small firms

More than 100 guests attended the 28th annual Accounting Banquet this April to hear from keynote speaker Alex Bancroft ’05 and honor current accounting students with scholarship awards.

Posted on May 02, 2024 by Michael Rouleau

Alumni offer career advice to communication students
‘Dip your toes into anything you can’

A spring 2024 communication course at Eastern Connecticut State University offered perspectives from many alumni on how to advance professionally.

Posted on May 01, 2024 by Noel Teter

Matches Made at Eastern

Students often forge lifelong relationships during their time at Eastern, including romantic ones. The Lommes, who met at Eastern in the 1970s, will celebrate their 49th anniversary in June, while...

Posted on April 25, 2024

Why I Give
Philip Morales ’99

Philip Morales ’99 is a self-employed software engineer based in Virginia. His steady record of giving to Eastern grew this spring with a generous five-figure gift, establishing the Philip...

Posted on April 24, 2024

Biology professionals discuss careers on panel

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Department of Biology hosted a panel discussion on April 17 about careers available to students with a bachelor’s degree in biology.

Posted on April 24, 2024 by Noel Teter

Yard Goats baseball hosts Eastern Day at Dunkin' Park

More than 200 Eastern Connecticut State University students, faculty, staff, alumni and their families recently came together for a day of baseball and springtime fun in celebration of Eastern Day...

Posted on April 18, 2024 by Noel Teter

Author Jeff Benedict to speak at Eastern's commencement

Best-selling author Jeffrey Benedict '91 will speak at the Eastern Connecticut State University commencement on May 14 at the XL Center in Hartford.

Posted on April 16, 2024

Music alumna speaks on conducting elementary school bands

The Department of Music at Eastern Connecticut State University highlighted alumna Emily Kennedy ‘21 at a recent afternoon music colloquium hour. Kennedy, who is an elementary band director,...

Posted on March 20, 2024 by Elisabeth Craig

Bestselling author Jeff Benedict ’91 presents ‘The Dynasty’ to his alma mater
Benedict gives master class on storytelling

Jeff Benedict ‘91 visited Eastern Connecticut State University on March 5 to discuss “The Dynasty,” his nonfiction book-turned-television docuseries about the New England...

Posted on March 06, 2024 by Noel Teter

English undergraduates publish in academic journals

Two honor students in the English Department recently published major writing projects in academic journals. Recent alumna Kai-li Davey ‘23 was featured in the January 2024 Sigma Tau Delta...

Posted on February 28, 2024 by Elisabeth Craig

Hundreds take 'the plunge' for local soup kitchen
13th annual Plunge for Hunger benefits Covenant Soup Kitchen

For the 13th year, the Eastern Connecticut State University men’s rugby team led the charge as hundreds of community members dove into the freezing cold Natchaug River to help feed the...

Posted on February 06, 2024 by Noel Teter

Learning the business firsthand
Students tour sports facilities and meet alumni who manage them

The Business 340 class in facility design in sport management taught by Charles Chatterton, associate professor of business administration, includes a half dozen field trips a semester to highlight...

Posted on November 28, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

ECSU Foundation gifts benefit 3 programs on campus

Three programs at Eastern Connecticut State University — in Connecticut history, career services and summer transition — will benefit from recent gifts to the ECSU Foundation.

Posted on November 17, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

If you can make it there …
Music student Evan Wood breaks into New York City jazz scene

For jazz musicians worldwide, New York City is one of the most desired places to build a name. A young jazz drummer and music major at Eastern Connecticut State University is wasting no time...

Posted on November 15, 2023 by Noel Teter

A Space Where Everyone Is Safe
A look at the Pride Center during LGBT History Month

Eastern’s Pride Room, as it was then called, started in that small space in 2010 and grew to become the Pride Center in 2016, a hub of activity, education and support for LGBTQ+-identifying...

Posted on October 25, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Cindy Archibald ’17 gives new mission to veterans

Posted on October 25, 2023 by Noel Teter

Eastern’s Barnard Scholars

Every spring, Eastern Connecticut State University selects two graduating seniors to receive the Henry Barnard Distinguished Student Award, the premier undergraduate honor of the Connecticut State...

Posted on October 19, 2023 by Meghan Carden

A Career Driven by Curiosity
Eastern alumnus leads iconic Wadsworth Atheneum

Jeffrey Brown ’79 never expected to work at a bank. And he never expected to work at Newman’s Own, the nonprofit food company, or at an art museum. But his career has taken all those...

Posted on October 18, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Matches Made at Eastern

In this edition of Matches Made at Eastern, we recap the Eastern-made love stories of longtime staff members John and Angela Bazin and alumni Stephanie Laudone-Jones '04 and David Jones '04.

Posted on October 18, 2023 by Ed Osborn

Eastern's earth science community celebrates 50 years of EES

The Department of Environmental Earth Science (EES) celebrated its 50th year at Eastern Connecticut State University by bringing alumni – some from the earliest days of the major – to...

Posted on October 10, 2023 by Marcus Grant

Biz-tech students ‘speed date’ alumni for career information

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Business Information Systems (BIS) program recently hosted a Biz-Tech and IT Career Conversations event that gave students the opportunity to sit down...

Posted on October 10, 2023 by Noel Teter

More than 900 attend Family Day

Eastern Connecticut State University welcomed more than 900 students and families to the annual Family Day celebration on Sept. 30.

Posted on October 05, 2023 by Elisabeth Craig

A Walk Down Memory Lane
Alumni return for Eastern Celebrates

Eastern Connecticut State University alumni had the opportunity to reconnect with their classmates, meet current students and explore the campus during Eastern Celebrates on Sept. 30. The premier...

Posted on October 03, 2023 by Marcus Grant

Biologists find new signs of gene expression in model worm
The worm’s gene expression may have implications for human conditions

In research recently published in the online scientific journal “microPublication Biology,” Eastern Connecticut State University biology professor Amy Groth and her former undergraduate...

Posted on September 27, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Alumnus Ryan Kelly named East Haddam's Teacher-of-the-Year

Eastern Connecticut State University alumnus Ryan Kelly ’18 was recently named Teacher-of-the-Year in East Haddam. He credits much of his success and drive to the influence of his professors...

Posted on September 21, 2023 by Marcus Grant

Aidan Reiss receives inaugural Yaps Memorial Scholarship

Music major Aidan Reiss ’26 of Stafford Springs is the first-ever recipient of the Wendy (Taylor) and Everett W. Yaps Memorial Endowed Scholarship, which was funded through a historic gift...

Posted on September 06, 2023 by Ed Osborn

Eastern graduates 890 at XL Center commencement ceremony
Messages of purpose and unity propel graduates beyond Eastern

Optimism and jubilation filled the XL Center in Hartford on May 16 as 890 Eastern Connecticut State University students received their degrees during the University's annual graduation...

Posted on May 17, 2023 by Michael Rouleau

Eastern awards more than 100 master’s degrees

More than 100 students received master’s degrees on May 13 during Eastern Connecticut State University’s 2023 Graduate Commencement and Hooding Ceremony.

Posted on May 16, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Accounting students, alumni convene for 27th annual banquet

More than 150 administrators, alumni, faculty, students and friends of the Accounting program at Eastern Connecticut State University attended the 27th Annual Accounting Banquet on April 19. Among...

Posted on May 10, 2023 by Joseph McGann

Campus Briefs
Eastern’s sustainability efforts receive 'Gold' rating

Campus sustainability efforts receive “Gold” rating; Thread City Jazz Trio releases new album; biologists use scorpions to research new antibiotics; Early childhood education videos...

Posted on May 04, 2023

On Health Care’s Front Lines
Eastern responds to nursing shortage

The current shortage of nurses in our nation is evident to varying degrees across all 50 states, and Connecticut is certainly part of this trend. Nationally, we will need 1.2 million new registered...

Posted on May 03, 2023 by Ed Osborn

Singing the Warriors Song
Bob "Bullet" Molta champions Eastern athletics for 48 years and counting

Sports Information Director Bob “Bullet” Molta has been a fixture at Eastern going back to the fall of 1974, all the while staying current with changes in technology, student culture...

Posted on May 02, 2023 by Ed Osborn

The Spirit of Aquai
3 alumni leaders at Mohegan Sun

The Mohegan Sun casino strives to develop passionate and dedicated employees, many of whom graduated from Eastern and found a home there. We caught up with three Eastern alumni and captured their...

Posted on May 02, 2023 by Meghan Carden

Reflections of a Photojournalist

John Shishmanian ’77 retired this past November after a 43-year career as a photojournalist for the Norwich Bulletin. Born in Norwich and still living in south-eastern Connecticut,...

Posted on May 02, 2023 by Ed Osborn

Wadsworth Atheneum CEO to speak at Eastern’s graduate commencement ceremony

Jeffrey Brown ’79, CEO of the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art in Hartford, will be the keynote speaker for Eastern Connecticut State University’s Graduate Division graduation and...

Posted on April 25, 2023 by Ed Osborn

Eastern announces university chancellor Thomas Gibson ’96 as commencement speaker

Eastern Connecticut State University has announced that Dr. Thomas Gibson ’96 will be the keynote speaker for its 132nd Commencement Exercises, held May 16, 2023, at the XL Center in...

Posted on April 03, 2023 by By Michael Rouleau and Ed Osborn

Clarinetist Adella Carlson '20 returns to Eastern for alumni recital

Eastern Connecticut State University alumna Adella Carlson ’20 will make a welcome return to the Fine Arts Instructional Center (FAIC) Concert Hall on March 9 to perform a recital of...

Posted on February 24, 2023 by Noel Teter

Eastern Rugby, Covenant Soup Kitchen Take the ‘Plunge for Hunger’

Eastern Connecticut State University’s men’s rugby team hosted the 12th annual Olga Ezis “Plunge for Hunger” on Feb. 4 at Lauter Park in Willimantic. For the first time in...

Posted on February 07, 2023 by Noel Teter

Alumna Elaine Hill ’17 wins $25,000 Milken Educator Award

Eastern Connecticut State University alumna Elaine Hill ’17 was surprised with one of the nation’s most prestigious education awards, the Milken Educator Award, on Jan. 12 in a surprise...

Posted on January 19, 2023 by Noel Teter

7th annual #WarriorsGive raises $84,000

The seventh annual #WarriorsGive fundraising campaign that concluded on Nov. 14 generated $84,629, including an anonymous matching gift of $21,629.

Posted on December 08, 2022

Philanthropy Highlights
Fundraising gala launches Walter and Maritza Diaz Endowed Scholarship Fund

Read about the fundraising gala that launched the Walter and Maritza Diaz Endowed Scholarship; the naming of the campus preschool’s “Marketplace” for Teresa James ’49; and...

Posted on December 06, 2022

Matches made at Eastern

When Marci Reisman ’12 stepped onto campus for the first time during summer orientation, she had no idea that she was about to meet her future husband. When her twin brother Matthew ’12...

Posted on December 05, 2022 by Meghan Carden

Leadership Luncheon honors 4 outstanding donors, alumni

Eastern honored four members of its alumni and donor community on June 10 at its annual President’s Leadership Luncheon and Awards ceremony. The event gathered more than 100 donors and...

Posted on December 05, 2022 by Michael Rouleau

In my spare time, I like to…

We asked alumni to share their interesting — even quirky — hobbies and talents with Eastern Magazine. Here are some of the fun and funky ways Eastern alumni spend their spare time.

Posted on December 05, 2022

Seeking Asylum
Aniko Szabo ’05 helps refugees rebuild

One only needs to listen to the news for a few minutes to be reminded of the myriad crises affecting the world. Whether impacted by natural disasters, war or persecution, millions of people are...

Posted on December 05, 2022 by Michael Rouleau

A First for the House
Connecticut’s first Muslim state representative champions education

Maryam Khan ’14 made history this past spring by becoming the first Muslim member of the Connecticut House of Representatives. After just one month of campaigning, Khan won a special election...

Posted on December 01, 2022 by Meghan Carden

A Life Lifted Twice
Two donors give in more ways than one

When student Sara Gustafson Green ’24 called her parents to share the good news that she had just received a scholarship, she didn’t realize that those same generous donors had a...

Posted on December 01, 2022

Campus Briefs
Eastern ranked in top 20 in U.S. News & World Report

Catch up on a variety of happenings on our dynamic campus, from being named one of U.S. News & World Report’s top 20 public institutions to the blooming of a rare Indonesian flower. Other...

Posted on December 01, 2022

New media studies alum shares experience from top film school

Eastern alumna Megan Campbell ‘21 returned to her alma mater on Nov. 14 to meet with undergraduates and discuss her experiences attending the nation’s top film school. Currently,...

Posted on November 18, 2022 by Jack Jones

Alumni celebrate 15th anniversary of Student Center

On Sept. 30, Eastern alumni were invited to the Student Center to celebrate the 15th anniversary of its renovation and opening. Approximately 50 alumni were in attendance for a nostalgic return to...

Posted on October 11, 2022 by Noel Teter

Alumni reunion teams with Family Day for festive weekend

Eastern Connecticut State University hosted its annual reunion weekend on Sept. 30–Oct. 1. For the first time in the school’s history, Eastern Celebrates occurred simultaneously with...

Posted on October 05, 2022 by Jack Jones

Virtual Andrej 5k draws international participation

The ECSU Foundation called upon the Eastern community to participate in the fifth annual Andrej 5k Fun Run & Walk from Sept. 16–18. The ceremonial race serves as a fundraising memorial...

Posted on September 28, 2022 by Jack Jones

Internship fair mingles accounting students with alumni

Eastern Connecticut State University students came eager with resumes in hand for the 18th annual accounting fair. Hosted by the Department of Accounting and Business Information Systems, the event...

Posted on September 22, 2022 by Molly Boucher

Eastern students, faculty produce WPKN documentary: 'The Greatest Radio Station in the World'

A faculty-student team from Eastern Connecticut State University produced a documentary on the legendary Bridgeport-based radio station WPKN-FM (89.5 FM). Titled “The Greatest Radio Station...

Posted on July 19, 2022 by Dwight Bachman

A Mentor in College and Career
Professor Tasneem guides first-generation students into computer science careers

Eastern faculty are known for developing close mentorships with students, helping them to master subject matter and even find success in the workplace after graduating. A classic example is Sarah...

Posted on July 13, 2022 by Dwight Bachman

English alumni collaborate on ‘cutting-edge’ writing studies book

Two Eastern alumni — Holly Ryan ’01 (formerly Holly Mandes) of Pawcatuck and Jason Custer ’11 of Vernon — have recently made a major contribution to the discipline of...

Posted on July 07, 2022 by Dwight Bachman

President Núñez and honorees at President’s Leadership Luncheon and Awards ceremony

Leadership Luncheon honors 4 outstanding donors, alumni
Ceremony returns after 3-year pandemic hiatus

Eastern Connecticut State University honored four members of its alumni and donor community on June 10 at its annual President’s Leadership Luncheon and Awards ceremony. The event gathered...

Posted on June 15, 2022 by Michael Rouleau

Health sciences graduate accepted into Yale public health program

Harley Webley ’21, a Health Sciences major with a concentration in Allied Health, will attend Yale University’s School of Public Health this fall. Webley, who also minored in sociology...

Posted on May 24, 2022 by Dwight Bachman

Eastern holds 26th annual accounting banquet
Attorney Joseph Lobe ’03 urges due diligence when reviewing contracts

The Accounting Program held its 26th annual banquet on April 19 in the Betty R. Tipton Room. The event gathered more than 100 accounting alumni, current students, faculty and university officials...

Posted on April 20, 2022 by Michael Rouleau

SGA: Giving students a voice

When Eastern Connecticut State University alumni return to campus they encourage students to get involved with a student club to enhance their college career, sharing their own experiences as proof...

Posted on March 23, 2022 by Dwight Bachman

Shrinking the STEM Gap
Eastern prepares a female workforce for science, technology careers

While women make up 50 percent of the overall workforce, they occupy less than 30 percent of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) jobs, according to recent data from the National...

Posted on March 02, 2022 by Michael Rouleau

Future Historians
An Eastern laboratory brings history into the digital age

The study of history is experiencing a renaissance. With the advent of new technologies, this timeless subject — long characterized by laborious research and lengthy essays — has...

Posted on March 02, 2022 by Michael Rouleau ’11

Matches Made at Eastern

Read about the origin stories of alumni couples Tom Balestracci ’13 and Melissa Groccia ’13; Amanda Quandt ’07 and Andrew Savage ’07; and Rachel Sawyer ’16 and Donald...

Posted on March 02, 2022

Eastern alumnus leads his own campus
UW-Stevens Point embraces new chancellor

When Thomas Gibson ’96 took over as chancellor at the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point on Jan. 11, 2021, he hit the ground running with three key goals in mind: to enhance academic...

Posted on March 02, 2022 by Meghan Carden

Recent health sciences graduates enter workforce, graduate programs

Three Eastern Connecticut State University Health Sciences alumni are advancing their careers to become a vibrant part of Connecticut’s public health workforce, including Brittany Cifarelli...

Posted on February 09, 2022 by Dwight Bachman

Three Eastern psychology alumni visit to discuss life after graduation.

3 psychology alumni speak on career paths and life after Eastern

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Department of Psychological Science held a series of three alumni events this fall. The events featured presentations from three alumni who spoke with...

Posted on December 06, 2021 by Bobbi Brown

2 biology research groups publish on camel spiders and endangered seabirds

Two alumni-faculty research groups from the Biology Department at Eastern Connecticut State University authored two peer-reviewed articles that were recently published in scientific journals. Jacob...

Posted on November 22, 2021 by Bobbi Brown

Eastern Celebrates! Virtually

Eastern Connecticut State University glowed on desktops, laptops and mobile devices across the country on May 14 and 15 as the Office of Alumni Affairs presented a virtual version of Eastern...

Posted on October 15, 2021

Burr Hall

As Eastern Connecticut State University’s oldest building, Burr Hall will celebrate its 100th anniversary next year. But it is not just its seniority that makes the longstanding residence...

Posted on October 15, 2021 by Dwight Bachman

Betty R. Tipton: Champion of All

Over the decades, faculty members at Eastern Connecticut State University have impacted students’ lives well beyond their coursework, teaching self-esteem, motivation, life skills and service...

Posted on October 15, 2021 by Dwight Bachman

Matches Made at Eastern

Read about the origin stories of alumni couples Robert '69 and Antoinette '70 Brzozowski, Paul and Gloria (Petrucelli) Drouin ‘71, and Garrett and Kristina (Riccio) Dukette ’07.

Posted on October 15, 2021

The Helena Miller Collection

During World War II, a number of students attending what was then the Willimantic State Teachers College (WSTC) left campus to join the Armed Forces. While the students were away at war, professor...

Posted on October 15, 2021 by Dwight Bachman

17th annual accounting fair draws large crowd

More than 100 Eastern Connecticut State University students converged on the Betty R. Tipton Room on Oct. 7 to participate in the 17th Annual Accounting Career Fair. More than 20 accounting firms...

Posted on October 11, 2021 by Dwight Bachman

4 faculty, alumni behavior analysts publish physical activity studies

Three Eastern Connecticut State University alumni and one faculty member have been published in a special edition of the academic journal “Behavior Analysis: Research and Practice."...

Posted on September 29, 2021 by Molly Boucher

Eastern holds 4th annual Andrej 5k race

Eastern Connecticut State University held the 4th Annual Andrej 5K Fun Run/Walk at Mansfield Hollow State Park on Sept. 18. Sponsored by the Office of Institutional Advancement, the annual race...

Posted on September 24, 2021 by Bobbi Brown

Campus Briefs

Track alumni finish 10th in 95-mile relay; Art Gallery presents ‘Our Tears Are Sweet, Our Laughter Venomous’; Eastern employs therapy puppies to reduce back-to-campus anxiety; Students...

Posted on September 01, 2021

Alumna Paulina Palomo ’21 selected for competitive TV Academy internship

Recent Eastern Connecticut State University graduate Paulina Palomo ’21 is one of 50 participants nationwide selected for a Television Academy Foundation Internship in 2021. The eight-week...

Posted on August 05, 2021 by Michael Rouleau

Eastern graduate and students pedal 600 miles to raise mental health awareness
'The Valley Boys Ride' benefits mental illness charity

Six Eastern Connecticut State University students and alumni recently concluded a 600-mile bike ride to raise awareness of mental health issues. The group, known as “The Valley Boys...

Posted on June 16, 2021 by Michael Rouleau

Joanne Michelle Ocampo ’11 and Tunde Olatinwo ’12.

Biology alumni speak on COVID-19, urge vaccination

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Biology Department hosted “Moving Forward: The Pandemic Tales of Two Eastern Alumni,” on April 28. Moderated by Biology Professor Joshua...

Posted on April 30, 2021 by Molly Boucher

Eastern alumni (from left to right) Lee '13, Link '14 and Galligan ’16.

English alumni speak on careers in financial technology and healthcare
‘English at Work’ panel features 3 recent graduates

Three English alumni from Eastern Connecticut State University spoke with students about their careers during an English at Work virtual panel on April 6. Kelly Galligan ’16, Marcia Lee...

Posted on April 07, 2021 by Michael Rouleau