Community Engagement

An Eastern for any age
Eastern joins Age-Friendly University Global Network

Eastern Connecticut State University is committed to being an environment where students from all backgrounds gather. It is that commitment that led the University to join the Age-Friendly...

Posted on October 28, 2026 by Tim Stevens

Local entrepreneurs discuss business challenges at Eastern
'Running a business is no joke’

Two dozen local small business owners discussed their economic challenges during a roundtable discussion at Eastern Connecticut State University on Oct. 13. Sponsored by the CT Department of...

Posted on October 22, 2026 by Michael Rouleau

ACLU talk about voting with ECSU students

Eastern hosts ACLU to get students election-ready

A recent Youth Poll from the Harvard Institute of Politics found that only 33% of voters between 18 and 29 expect the 2026 election to be conducted fairly, suggesting faith in voting is at a nadir...

Posted on October 20, 2026 by Tim Stevens

Watch: 13th Annual Poverty Awareness Marathon alleviates food insecurity

Spirits were high as a large group of Eastern Connecticut State University students, led by Business Administration Professor Charlie Chatterton, gathered for Eastern's 13th Annual Poverty...

Posted on October 08, 2026 by Daniel Roland '27

The Last Green Valley establishes headquarters at Eastern's historic Church Farm
ECSU Foundation property will continue to serve students, faculty

The Last Green Valley, Inc. (TLGV), Eastern Connecticut State University, and the ECSU Foundation, Inc. have announced a collaborative partnership that establishes Church Farm, a historic property...

Posted on October 08, 2026

A group shot of Day of Caring Volunteers

Students roll up their sleeves for Day of Caring

More than 150 Eastern Connecticut State University students and local volunteers beautified Windham on Oct. 3 for the Day of Caring, a town-wide clean-up event. Volunteers from Eastern's...

Posted on October 06, 2026 by Collin Moffitt '27

Eastern celebrates 25 years of Willimantic’s Julia de Burgos Park

Twenty-five years after an Eastern Connecticut State University student and professor successfully lobbied for the beautification and naming of a Willimantic pocket park, the University fittingly...

Posted on September 29, 2026 by Tim Stevens

Maebel Haynes receives prestigious Newman Civic Fellowship

Political science junior Maebel Haynes has been selected to represent Eastern Connecticut State University and advocate for the Willimantic community through the Newman Civic Fellowship. The...

Posted on September 02, 2026 by Kyle Berson '26

CFDRC expands childhood STEAM learning through grant

The Child and Family Development Resource Center (CFDRC) at Eastern Connecticut State University recently received a $30,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut (CFECT) to...

Posted on August 11, 2026 by Savannah Striano ‘25

Computer science duo develops app to support local food pantry
Project serves Windham Community Food Network

A student-professor duo recently partnered with the Windham Community Food Network (WCFN) to develop a computer application that assists with food pantry deliveries in the local community. The app,...

Posted on August 06, 2026 by Noel Teter '24

Technical high school teachers learn AI tips, tricks at summer institute
Eastern and CTECS ready trade school educators for the age of AI

Eastern Connecticut State University welcomed 40 educators and administrators from the Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS) to campus this July for the 2026 AI Summer...

Posted on July 29, 2026 by Kyle Berson '26

Summer program develops civic leaders
Eastern holds inaugural 'Summer Civic Leadership Program'

Nine Eastern students recently completed a new summer program designed to foster civic leadership skills. Spearheaded by the Center for Community Engagement (CCE) through a $20,000 grant from the...

Posted on July 06, 2026 by Kyle Berson '26

Child and Family Development Resource Center celebrates 20 years

Eastern Connecticut State University's Child and Family Development Resource Center celebrated its 20th anniversary on June 26, marking two decades of serving children, families, and future...

Posted on July 01, 2026 by Savannah Striano '25

'Warriors Don’t Waste' salvages thousands of items for future reuse

The Eastern community diverted more than 5,000 pounds of reusable goods this move-out season during the campus-wide donation drive known as “Warriors Don’t Waste.” Rather than...

Posted on May 27, 2026 by Michael Rouleau

VIDEO: ‘Fun Mud Day’ mediates mini-shenanigans

Adorable antics were abundant during Fun Mud Day on May 1 at Eastern's Child and Family Development Resource Center (CFDRC). The 12th annual event encourages young children to get dirty as...

Posted on May 05, 2026 by Elisabeth Craig '26

Eastern hosts housing-justice series
Alumna speaks on housing insecurity, advocacy

Eastern hosted the Housing Justice Brown Bag Lunch Series this spring 2026 semester, presented by the Center for Housing Equity & Opportunity (CHEO). The final session was held on April 29,...

Posted on May 05, 2026 by By Savannah Striano ’25

"Earth Day Market" attendees view vendors and exhibitors.

Eastern celebrates Earth Day with annual market
Earth Day Market packs the Student Center

Eastern welcomed hundreds of students and community members to its Student Center on April 22 to celebrate Earth Day. Featuring 34 vendors and exhibitors, Eastern's annual Earth Day Market...

Posted on May 01, 2026 by Noel Teter '24 and Kyle Berson '26

Video: Service Expo showcases student volunteerism

On April 16, the Center for Community Engagement’s (CCE) annual Service Expo and Awards Ceremony highlighted how Eastern students are turning volunteer efforts into meaningful change as they...

Posted on April 22, 2026 by Savannah Striano ’25

Officer Theriault earns Special Olympics recognition for Eastern
Law Enforcement Torch Run supports Special Olympics athletes

Eastern’s Police Department has been recognized by Special Olympics Connecticut (SOCT) for raising over $2,500 in support of the Special Olympics. The 2025 Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR)...

Posted on April 08, 2026 by Elisabeth Craig '26

Eastern students bring tax savings to Willimantic residents
Student tax preparers volunteer through VITA

Students from Eastern’s College of Business are providing cost-free tax preparation services to local community members through the IRS’ Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program (VITA)...

Posted on March 16, 2026 by Kyle Berson '26

Student leaders power community engagement
Semester-long programs support many causes

Since its earliest days as a teacher’s college — when student teachers worked with local children at the Windham Street Model School — Eastern Connecticut State University has...

Posted on March 10, 2026 by Ed Osborn

Students present on community IMPACT on national stage

Seven student leaders of the Center for Community Engagement (CCE) showcased the fruits of their community involvement at the IMPACT National Conference in Cincinnati, OH, from Feb 18 to Feb 22.

Posted on February 26, 2026 by Elisabeth Craig '26

Eastern Passport goes digital
Willimantic businesses offer student discounts through Apple and Google Wallet

Last fall, Eastern, in coordination with the Willimantic Downtown Neighborhood Association (WDNA), released “Eastern Passport,” a rewards and discount booklet aimed at strengthening...

Posted on February 03, 2026 by Kyle Berson '26

Benefit concert raises $15K for anti-hunger efforts
Take Me To The River All-Stars Live bring the funk to Eastern

Eastern hosted an all-star band of New Orleans musicians on Jan. 10, raising $15,000 for two local antihunger organizations. The Take Me to the River All-Stars Live presented an evening of funk,...

Posted on January 14, 2026 by Michael Rouleau '11

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

‘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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

'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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sociology professor pays tribute to former student at Hot Chocolate Run
Cara Bergstrom-Lynch raises more than $3,000 in honor of domestic violence victims

Cara Bergstrom-Lynch, professor of sociology at Eastern Connecticut State University, participated in the 21st annual Hot Chocolate Run for Safe Passage in Northampton, MA, on Dec. 8, her 12th...

Posted on December 17, 2024 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

Social work majors promote their field through high school outreach

Thirty-two social work majors at Eastern Connecticut State University conducted a series of interactive presentations for local high school and community college students this fall semester. Titled...

Posted on December 12, 2024 by Noel Teter '24

Sport management students get inside look at CT venues

During the fall 2024 semester, Eastern Connecticut State University business students went on tour throughout Connecticut’s most renowned arenas and athletic complexes. From the Bushnell...

Posted on December 10, 2024 by Kyle Berson '26

Eastern hosts 18th annual Day of Giving

Eastern welcomed more than 400 community members to campus on Nov. 27 for a cherished Thanksgiving tradition — the Day of Giving. For nearly 20 years, this event has brought the Willimantic...

Posted on December 02, 2024 by Michael Rouleau

Detective discusses cold cases with criminology students

Recently, a detective from West Hartford spoke to a class of criminology students as a part of Professor Racheal Pesta’s “True Crime” course at Eastern Connecticut State...

Posted on November 15, 2024 by Elisabeth Craig '26

Eastern's dual enrollment grows 60 percent in one year
Program grows to 16 high schools and 730 students

Eastern Connecticut State University is expanding its dual enrollment program with Connecticut high schools, supported in part by a three-year, $178,000 grant from the Connecticut State Department...

Posted on November 12, 2024 by Edward Osborn

Eastern commends service members on Veterans Day

Eastern Connecticut State University held its annual Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 11 to recognize students, staff and local veterans for their military service. The event, which was held in the...

Posted on November 12, 2024 by Elisabeth Craig '26

Prince Tech High School students explore BIS program
BIS program and BIS-ITSA Club host college day for aspiring students

Students from Hartford’s A.I. Prince Technical High School visited Eastern for a college day on Oct. 29. The Prince Tech IT students were hosted by the Business Information Systems (BIS)...

Posted on October 29, 2024

Eastern’s CCE student leaders make an impact in Willimantic

Several student leaders and interns at Eastern Connecticut State University’s Center for Community Engagement (CCE) are spearheading various outreach programs in Willimantic this semester....

Posted on October 22, 2024 by Elisabeth Craig

Eastern hosts 5th annual ‘End Relationship Violence’ event honoring Alyssiah Wiley

Eastern Connecticut State University hosted its 5th annual relationship violence awareness event on Oct. 9, bringing together faculty and students in honor of Alyssiah Wiley, an Eastern student who...

Posted on October 15, 2024 by Darlene Orozco B.

Students serve community during Day of Caring

The Center for Community Engagement’s annual Day of Caring, in partnership with United Way, mobilized more than 100 volunteers on Oct. 12 to complete community service projects across...

Posted on October 15, 2024 by Darlene Orozco B.

Literacy event unites authors, families, teachers in love of reading

Children and families filled Eastern’s Child and Family Development Resource Center on Sept. 17 for a childhood literacy event titled “Read a Book, Love a Book: Developing...

Posted on September 24, 2024 by Kyle Berson

Upcoming Big Read program connects communities to 'where we live'
NEA-funded program will explore New England-based novel ‘The Bear’

Eastern Connecticut State University is the only organization in Connecticut to receive a Big Read award from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) for the 2024-25 academic year. Following the...

Posted on June 17, 2024 by Michael Rouleau

STEM academy middle schoolers present sustainability solutions at Eastern

The Institute for Sustainability at Eastern Connecticut State University partnered with the Charles H. Barrows STEM Academy to spotlight a new generation of sustainability advocates on June 6. For...

Posted on June 13, 2024 by Elisabeth Craig

Mural featuring Elsa Núñez graces downtown Willimantic

A massive mural depicting three pioneering women was unveiled in downtown Willimantic on May 30 during a dedication ceremony. The 50-foot painting by renowned muralist Ben Keller, located on the...

Posted on June 03, 2024 by Michael Rouleau

Business students glimpse health care industry at local agency

A group of business administration students from Eastern learned about the business and operations of the health care industry at a local agency in Willimantic this spring semester. The hands-on...

Posted on May 20, 2024 by Elisabeth Craig

Eastern celebrates National Nurses Week

State officials, representatives from Hartford HealthCare and other dignitaries joined Eastern Connecticut State University faculty and administrators to celebrate National Nurses Week May...

Posted on May 15, 2024 by Ed Osborn

Eastern’s Tiny Earth Day lures high school students to the lab

Thirteen students from Norwich Free Academy learned laboratory techniques and the impact of microbiology research in a recent visit to Eastern Connecticut State University ‘s Tiny Earth Day...

Posted on April 30, 2024 by Lucinda Weiss

Rain doesn't dampen spirits during Town Pride Town Wide

The Center for Community Engagement (CCE) at Eastern Connecticut State University spread its charity to community partners on April 20 during the annual Town Wide Town Pride event. This...

Posted on April 24, 2024 by Elisabeth Craig

Eastern students highlight their community work at CCE Expo

More than one in five full-time students at Eastern Connecticut State University volunteered in the community this year, and they presented highlights of their work at the Center for Community...

Posted on April 23, 2024 by Lucinda Weiss

‘Opera for All’: Eastern partnerships bring opera to local children

Eastern Connecticut State University’s opera program has found new inspiration in bringing opera to audiences outside the University, including local children. The 2023-24 academic...

Posted on March 21, 2024 by Noel Teter

Eastern partners with Hartford HealthCare to address nursing shortage
Future Windham Hospital simulation lab will bolster new nursing program

Eastern Connecticut State University and Hartford HealthCare (HHC) are joining forces to tackle Connecticut's nursing shortage by establishing a partnership aimed at increasing the number of...

Posted on March 20, 2024 by Michael Rouleau

Business students prepped to share financial literacy tips with community

Business students taking the "Financial Literacy and Our Community" course at Eastern will share what they learn about credit, debt, financial fraud and how to buy a home in a series of...

Posted on March 13, 2024 by Lucinda Weiss

Eastern brings together experts to consider solutions to opioid epidemic

Experts on opioid epidemic open community dialogue at Eastern
Veteran EMT shares first-responder insights

Early in his career as a paramedic, in the 1990s, Peter Canning responded to a cheerleading accident in which a high school girl broke her back. Two years later, he responded to her again, this...

Posted on March 06, 2024 by Michael Rouleau

‘Lift every voice and sing’: Local NAACP branches convene at Eastern

NAACP members across Windham and Mansfield met at Eastern Connecticut State University on Feb. 24 to discuss the importance of their work and their hope for the organization's future. In a...

Posted on February 29, 2024 by Marcus Grant

Warriors transcribe Black history at Douglass Day

This year’s Douglass Day Transcribe-a-Thon at Eastern Connecticut State University gave students, faculty and staff the opportunity to celebrate Black History month by transcribing historical...

Posted on February 22, 2024 by Elisabeth Craig

Eastern hosts film festival for high schoolers

Fourteen aspiring filmmakers from high schools around the state participated in the recent first-ever high school film festival organized by the Department of Communication, Film and Theatre at...

Posted on February 16, 2024 by Elisabeth Craig

Eastern students register to donate bone marrow and stem cells

The National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) hosted a donor registry at Eastern Connecticut State University on Feb. 7 in partnership with Eastern’s men’s soccer team. The registry sought...

Posted on February 08, 2024 by Noel Teter

Forum: Collective effort needed across Connecticut to combat climate change

Eastern hosts public forum on the environment

Eastern Connecticut State University students and members of the Windham community gathered at Eastern on Feb. 5 to hear from experts and politicians about environmental issues and climate change...

Posted on February 07, 2024 by Marcus Grant

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

Combatting Connecticut’s waste crisis
Eastern students learn ways to reduce environmental impact

Connecticut is currently in a waste crisis that has great impacts on the cost of waste removal and the state’s environmental footprint. Eastern Connecticut State University students gathered...

Posted on February 01, 2024 by Marcus Grant

Pre-College Summer returns with more offerings for high schoolers

Eastern Connecticut State University is excited to welcome high school students to campus this July for its second annual Pre-College Summer. Following a successful inaugural run in 2023, the...

Posted on January 17, 2024 by Michael Rouleau

Eastern community engagement awarded $65K grant for youth development

The Center for Community Engagement (CCE) at Eastern Connecticut State University will receive $65,000 in funds for advancing youth development as part of a state pilot program to reinvest in...

Posted on December 14, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Bergstrom-Lynch and Todd support victims of domestic violence

Two Eastern Connecticut State University faculty members recently participated in an annual fundraiser for Safe Passage, an organization helping domestic violence victims recover. Cara...

Posted on December 06, 2023 by Noel Teter

Local health center features Eastern in heartfelt video

Eastern Connecticut State University was recently featured in a heartfelt video by an eastern Connecticut-based health center, United Community & Family Services (UCFS). The agency's...

Posted on November 28, 2023 by Noel Teter

17th annual Day of Giving provides a festive meal for 400

More than 400 Willimantic residents replaced the usual lunch crowd of Eastern students in the Hurley Hall dining room the day before Thanksgiving . Community members and patrons of local senior...

Posted on November 27, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Helping animals helps students
Eastern students volunteer at animal rescue and retreat farm

A new program this fall has Eastern students volunteering at Blue Iris Farm Rescue and Retreat in Lebanon, a 114-acre farm where abused or unwanted farm animals find shelter and care.

Posted on November 09, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Social Action Day tackles opioid crisis

Addressing the nation’s opioid epidemic was the topic of this year’s Social Action Day on Oct. 31, during which students prioritized an awareness campaign about this decades-long...

Posted on November 08, 2023 by Michael Rouleau

‘Big Read’ begins with discussion on translation and adaptation

Eastern students and local community members came together on Oct. 26 for a discussion of Madeline Miller’s novel “Circe.” To kick off Eastern's Big Read program--of which...

Posted on November 06, 2023 by Marcus Grant

Rainy weather doesn't dampen Day of Caring

The Center for Community Engagement (CCE) at Eastern Connecticut State University held its annual Day of Caring on Oct. 23, sending upwards of 90 students throughout the local Willimantic community...

Posted on October 24, 2023 by Elisabeth Craig

More high school students earn credits at Eastern with dual enrollment

A growing number of high school students in Connecticut are enrolling in courses that can earn credits at Eastern Connecticut State University under a dual enrollment program that recently received...

Posted on October 23, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Literary festival inspires next generation of creators

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Department of English recently hosted 200 students from Connecticut high schools for a poetry and creative writing workshop known as the Eastern...

Posted on October 20, 2023 by Noel Teter

Student designs usher in fall holidays in Willimantic

Fall holidays will get a bright boost in Willimantic with digital billboard images designed by Eastern Connecticut State University graphic design students.

Posted on October 20, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

CCE student leaders reflect on supporting local community

The Center for Community Engagement (CCE) at Eastern Connecticut State University provides many opportunities for students to volunteer around Willimantic. From after-school to pen pal programs,...

Posted on October 18, 2023 by Marcus Grant

Best Buddies fosters friendship

Members of Eastern’s Best Buddies chapter came together on Oct. 8 to raise awareness for the program, an international nonprofit organization that supports individuals with intellectual and...

Posted on October 17, 2023 by Marcus Grant

First HERfest sparks spirit of sisterhood

The spirit of sisterhood permeated the Student Center during Eastern's first HERfest on Oct. 6. Sponsored by the Women's Center and several campus partners, the event hosted woman-owned...

Posted on October 16, 2023 by Elisabeth Craig

Eastern sends its first float to Puerto Rican Day Parade

For the first time Eastern Connecticut State University entered a float and sent a delegation of 50 students and staff to the Hartford Puerto Rican Day Parade on Oct. 8. It is Hartford’s...

Posted on October 11, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

History majors uncover lost relics in Willimantic Town Hall

Eastern history majors and members of the History Club uncovered centuries worth of historical documents in the top floors of the Willimantic Town Hall at the conclusion of the spring 2023 semester.

Posted on October 04, 2023 by Elisabeth Craig

CCE barbecue promotes community programs, volunteerism

An open house sponsored by the Center for Community Engagement at Eastern Connecticut State University on Sept. 18 promoted its mission and encouraged students to volunteer.

Posted on September 25, 2023 by Elisabeth Craig

Scientists to discuss beech leaf disease in seminar at Eastern

Two scientists from the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) will describe their efforts to study and manage the beech leaf disease nematode, an invasive worm that is killing beech...

Posted on September 21, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Computer science students create tree-planting app to win their first hackathon

Brainstorming paid off for Eastern Connecticut State University computer science students Ian Valeta and Diego Hernandez Ramirez when their plan for a tree-planting digital game won them the top...

Posted on September 21, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Hundreds turn out for Student Involvement Fair

Representatives from nearly 100 clubs and organizations gathered at the annual Student Involvement fair on Sept. 7 to introduce themselves to students. From academics to sports to cultural groups,...

Posted on September 12, 2023 by Marcus Grant

Hunter Hayes to perform fall concert on Shaboo Stage

Eastern Connecticut State University will host musician Hunter Hayes on Sept. 24 on Shaboo Stage in downtown Willimantic as part of its annual fall festival.

Posted on September 12, 2023 by Noel Teter

Madeline Miller’s ‘Circe’ selected for Eastern’s 2023 ‘Big Read’ program

As part of the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Big Read program, Eastern Connecticut State University students will have the opportunity to read Madeline Miller’s novel...

Posted on September 12, 2023 by Marcus Grant

Eastern rugby hosts first clinic for Special Olympics Willimantic

Eastern Connecticut State University’s men’s rugby team hosted Special Olympics Willimantic for its inaugural Special Olympics rugby clinic on Aug. 12 at the Mansfield Sports...

Posted on August 30, 2023 by Noel Teter

Teaching sustainability strengthens Eastern partnership with Windham school

A growing collaboration between Eastern Connecticut State University’s Institute for Sustainability and the eighth-grade science classes at the Charles H. Barrows STEM Academy in Windham...

Posted on August 17, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

High school students get a taste of college life
Eastern hosts first Pre-College Summer

A group of high school students from Connecticut and beyond previewed college life in a one-week Pre-College Summer program at Eastern Connecticut State University in July.

Posted on July 24, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Police carry the torch for Special Olympics

Police officers and other Eastern Connecticut State University community members took part in the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run on June 1 to benefit Special Olympics CT. The run began at the...

Posted on June 06, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Residence hall clean-out yields a ton of donations

The “Warriors Don’t Waste” program, collecting items from May 1-12, was organized by senior Jacob Sweeney as part of his internship with Eastern’s Institute for...

Posted on May 30, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

History website shows what Willimantic was like in 1910

The second phase of “Digital Windham,” a website created by historians at Eastern Connecticut State University went live on May 4 with new exhibits exploring what Willimantic was like...

Posted on May 16, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Psychology students volunteer at senior center

Psychology students at Eastern Connecticut State University recently helped the Ashford Senior Center celebrate special occasions. Students of Jennifer Leszczyński, professor of psychological...

Posted on May 16, 2023 by Noel Teter

Philanthropy Highlights
Women’s basketball team supports breast cancer awareness

Alyssiah Wiley remembered at Hot Chocolate Run; Women’s basketball team supports breast cancer awareness; Eastern takes the plunge for hunger; Donors step up for annual fundraising campaign.

Posted on May 02, 2023

Eastern students pitch in for Windham’s spring clean-up

Eastern Connecticut State University students volunteered nearly 320 hours of service at 10 Willimantic sites during the Town Pride, Town Wide community clean-up on April 22.

Posted on April 26, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Eastern biologists contribute to Tiny Earth’s search for antibiotics

The global search for new antibiotics is getting a boost from Eastern Connecticut State University through an effort known as “Tiny Earth,” a network of researchers uniting against...

Posted on April 25, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Student volunteerism recognized at annual CCE Expo

Community service was on display at the annual Center for Community Engagement (CCE) Expo at Eastern Connecticut State University on April 10, where students collected awards for their service and...

Posted on April 12, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Eastern's Chamber Singers perform at Escuela de Bellas Artes.

Chamber Singers perform in Puerto Rico

During spring break, many college students like to vacation somewhere warm, and this year, Eastern Connecticut State University’s Chamber Singers were no exception. The performing group...

Posted on March 23, 2023 by Noel Teter

Prison Arts exhibit opens with artwork that ‘transcends’ prison

More than 350 works from 100 artists are being exhibited in the 43rd annual Prison Arts Show at Eastern Connecticut State University’s Art Gallery from March 20 to April 22.

Posted on March 21, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Eastern partnering on new affordable housing initiative

A new center devoted to improving housing affordability in eastern Connecticut will soon open as part of a partnership that includes Eastern Connecticut State University as a founding member.

Posted on March 21, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Eastern announces first Pre-College Summer for high school students

Eastern Connecticut State University will open its campus this July to high school students for the University’s first Pre-College Summer. The residential program will consist of three,...

Posted on March 20, 2023 by Michael Rouleau

Student leaders attend IMPACT Conference on civic engagement

Six student leaders at the Center for Community Engagement (CCE) at Eastern Connecticut State University attended the recent IMPACT Conference on civic engagement for students from colleges around...

Posted on March 08, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Earthquake relief sought in fundraiser

The Muslim Students Association (MSA) at Eastern Connecticut State University is raising money to benefit earthquake victims in Turkiye and Syria.

Posted on March 08, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Eastern teams up with 'Be the Match' to connect donors with patients in need

Eastern Connecticut State University’s men’s soccer team recently joined forces with Be the Match, an organization seeking to find potential donors for patients with blood diseases....

Posted on March 02, 2023 by Noel Teter

CCE celebrates Valentine’s Day and mental health awareness at local middle school

While the recent spike in reported mental health cases has predominantly affected adults, many children have also begun to experience the challenges of mental illness. To support the local...

Posted on February 24, 2023 by Jack Jones

Eastern hosts CSCA’s annual speed chess tournament

On Feb. 11, Eastern Connecticut State University was the host for the Connecticut State Chess Association’s (CSCA) speed chess state championship. Fifty-five competitors from six states...

Posted on February 16, 2023 by Jack Jones

Eastern hosts Douglass Day 'Transcribe-a-Thon'

Most people are likely to recognize Feb. 14 as Valentine’s Day. However, there is another occasion to be celebrated on this date: the birth of civil rights and anti-slavery activist Frederick...

Posted on February 16, 2023 by Noel Teter

Breast Cancer Awareness Basketball Thumbnail

Women’s basketball team advocates for breast cancer awareness

During a recent women’s basketball game, Eastern Connecticut State University athletes, coaches and Athletic Department staff met an objective that extended far beyond beating their opponent....

Posted on February 15, 2023 by Jack Jones

EastConn grant brings elementary students to Eastern’s campus

An interdistrict grant from EastConn, a public, nonprofit regional educational service agency, brought fifth-grade students from several nearby communities to Eastern Connecticut State...

Posted on February 09, 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

SUOAF raises $4,050 for local soup kitchen

Eastern’s chapter of the State University Organization of Administrative Faculty (SUOAF) raised $4,050 for the Covenant Soup Kitchen this holiday season. Local chapter members raised $1,025...

Posted on January 06, 2023

Bergstrom-Lynch and Todd participate in Hot Chocolate Run to end domestic violence
Alyssiah Wiley remembered with $4,000 donation

Sociology Professor Cara Bergstrom-Lynch raised more than $4,000 in memory of former student Alyssiah Wiley on Dec. 4 at the annual Hot Chocolate Run for Safe Passage in Northampton, MA. Wiley was...

Posted on December 07, 2022 by Noel Teter

Student Katherine Escalante advocates for DACA on Capitol Hill

Sophomore political science major Katherine Escalante received the chance of a lifetime this November when she was invited to Washington, D.C, to advocate for Deferred Action for Childhood...

Posted on November 28, 2022 by Katherine Escalante

Eastern serves turkey and trimmings to 300 community members
16th Day of Giving returns to campus

Eastern Connecticut State University’s 16th annual Day of Giving on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving was the only turkey dinner that many participants would have this holiday. More than 300...

Posted on November 23, 2022 by Lucinda Weiss

Student Kailani Therriault named VITA Rookie of the Year

Student volunteer Kailani Therriault was recently recognized as Rookie of the Year by the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program in Willimantic for completing $825,000 worth of refunds and...

Posted on November 14, 2022 by Noel Teter

Student-volunteers cleaning the Jillson House garden on Main St. in Willimantic.

Students beautify Windham during annual Day of Caring

Eastern Connecticut State University partnered with the University of Connecticut and United Way of Connecticut for a community service event called Day of Caring on Oct. 22. Groups of Eastern and...

Posted on October 26, 2022 by Noel Teter

Supreme Court hears 2 cases at Eastern
‘On Circuit’ gives students up-close look at judicial process

Eastern Connecticut State University hosted the Connecticut Supreme Court on Oct. 19 as it heard two cases in the Concert Hall of the Fine Arts Instructional Center. The event marked the return of...

Posted on October 26, 2022 by Noel Teter

Eastern students give local preschoolers a summer ‘Jumpstart’
CCE program develops pre-K skills

Four Eastern students are spending their summer working with Willimantic children through the early childhood program known as “Jumpstart.” Through the Center for Community Engagement...

Posted on August 02, 2022 by Michael Rouleau

Eastern President Elsa Núñez, left, and NAACP President Leah Ralls, right, congratulate Adalyse Gonzales on winning an NAACP scholarship

Windham NAACP presents scholarship to Eastern student

On June 4 at a packed house at the Lakeview Restaurant in Coventry, the Windham/Willimantic Branch of the NAACP presented Adalyse Gonzales ’22 a scholarship for her academic and athletic...

Posted on June 10, 2022 by Dwight Bachman

Runners carry the torch for Special Olympics

More than 20 students, campus police officers and other members of the campus community ran in this years’ Law Enforcement Torch Run on June 2. Held annually by Eastern Connecticut State...

Posted on June 03, 2022 by Ed Osborn

Isabel Logan, Eastern social work professor and co-director of the SWLE Project, presents pre-recorded remarks by U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona.

U.S. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona praises police social work project
Eastern hosts inaugural ‘Boots on the Ground’ celebration

Eastern Connecticut State University hosted the first capstone celebration for the Social Work and Law Enforcement (SWLE) Project on April 22 in the Shafer Hall Auditorium. Titled “Boots on...

Posted on April 29, 2022 by Michael Rouleau

Spring cleaning in Windham
Eastern students volunteer across town

More than 75 Eastern Connecticut State University volunteers dispersed across Windham on April 23 for the Center for Community Engagement’s (CCE) annual Town Pride Town Wide beautification...

Posted on April 25, 2022 by Michael Rouleau

Anderson Curtis speaks to attendees of ACLU event.

Period poverty to online dating safety
Social work students tackle issues with community organizations

Through service and outreach, Eastern social work students are immersing themselves in the community and gaining field experience. For a required course of the Social Work major -- "Generalist...

Posted on April 20, 2022 by Molly Boucher

CCE holds first Service Expo since 2019
Silcox urges students to take authentic path

The Center for Community Engagement (CCE) at Eastern Connecticut State University honored five members of the campus and local communities for their exemplary service during its Annual Service Expo...

Posted on April 20, 2022 by Dwight Bachman

Eastern to hold first community service expo in 3 years

The Center for Community Engagement (CCE) at Eastern Connecticut State University will hold its Annual Service Expo and Awards Ceremony on April 18 from 2–4 p.m. in the foyer of the Fine Arts...

Posted on April 11, 2022

CCE concludes successful reading program with Windham Public Schools

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Center for Community Engagement (CCE) recently completed a year-long reading program with more than 135 children in Windham Public Schools. Based on a...

Posted on April 04, 2022 by Kim Silcox

Eastern 'Habitaters' build housing in North Carolina

Thirteen members of Eastern Connecticut State University’s student chapter of Habitat for Humanity recently traveled to New Bern, NC, to help build houses with the Habitat of Craven County...

Posted on March 23, 2022 by Molly Boucher

'A college future is possible'
CCE mentoring program welcomes local middle school students to campus

The Center for Community Engagement (CCE) at Eastern Connecticut State University organizes more than 10 community service programs ranging from helping those who suffer from homelessness to...

Posted on March 07, 2022 by Bobbi Brown

Eastern celebrates 15th annual Day of Giving

For the 15th consecutive year, Eastern Connecticut State University served a special Thanksgiving meal to Willimantic community members in need. In past years, the “Day of Giving” event...

Posted on March 02, 2022 by Edward Osborn

Eastern community saves lives via blood and bone marrow drives

The Eastern campus community continued its efforts to save lives by participating in the University's 10th "Be the Match" bone marrow registry on Feb. 2 and ongoing Red Cross blood...

Posted on February 07, 2022 by Bobbi Brown

Eastern senior wins design challenge to help brand Connecticut arts nonprofit
Anayeli Arroyo’s banner designs to grace the EC-CHAP in Willington

In the coming months, Eastern Connecticut State University senior Anayeli Arroyo’s jewel-toned geometric designs will flap in the winter winds outside a century-old former mill in Willington,...

Posted on January 12, 2022 by Amanda Irwin

Eastern celebrates 15th annual of Day of Giving
500 meals distributed to Willimantic community residents

For the 15th consecutive year, Eastern Connecticut State University served a special Thanksgiving meal on Nov. 24 to Willimantic community members in need. In past years, the “Day of...

Posted on November 24, 2021 by Ed Osborn

DeVivo and Johnson speak on educational equity

Windham Mayor Tom DeVivo and State Rep. Susan Johnson visited Eastern on Oct. 27 to discuss public education and their aspirations for a new magnet school in Windham.

Posted on November 02, 2021 by Michael Rouleau

Eastern and Willimantic police spearhead statewide police-social work initiative
SWLE Project provides model for Connecticut and nation

What started as a pilot internship last year with two Eastern Connecticut State University students has evolved into a statewide collaboration that may well serve as a national model for the...

Posted on October 27, 2021 by Michael Rouleau

Student leaders run community service programs

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Center for Community Engagement (CCE) selected 12 student leaders to oversee 14 community service programs throughout the Windham area this year....

Posted on October 26, 2021 by Bobbi Brown

Eastern student builds her box for the night.

Shackathon exposes students to substandard housing
Habitat for Humanity fundraiser raises awareness

Ten Eastern Connecticut State University students slept on the lawn outside of Webb Hall in makeshift boxes for the annual Shackathon fundraiser. Hosted by Eastern’s Habitat for Humanity...

Posted on October 21, 2021 by Molly Boucher

Students beautify Windham during Day of Caring

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Center for Community Engagement held its annual Day of Caring special event on Oct. 2. In collaboration with the University of Connecticut (UConn) and...

Posted on October 06, 2021 by Bobbi Brown

Eastern students teach of The Amistad’s journey to freedom
Partnership with Discovering Amistad serves Hartford-area middle, high schoolers

Eight students from Eastern Connecticut State University are working with Discovering Amistad this September and October, teaching Hartford-area middle and high school students about the famed...

Posted on September 21, 2021 by Michael Rouleau

Student Government Association stands at their booth.

Involvement Fair draws hundreds of eager students

Eastern Connecticut State University hosted its first in-person student involvement fair and president’s picnic since 2019, with around 500 students in attendance. Spanning across Webb lawn,...

Posted on September 15, 2021 by Molly Boucher

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