University News

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

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

Posted on May 07, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

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

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

Posted on May 01, 2025 by Ed Osborn

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

Cheerleading team returns to national stage

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

Posted on April 17, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

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

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

Posted on April 14, 2025 by Michael Rouleau

Official portrait of President Elsa M. Núñez

Eastern unveils portrait of former President Núñez

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

Posted on April 09, 2025 by Ed Osborn

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on April 07, 2025 by Kyle Berson '26

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

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

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

Posted on March 28, 2025 by Michael Rouleau

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

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

Posted on March 24, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

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

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

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

Posted on February 24, 2025 by Michael Rouleau

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

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

Posted on February 20, 2025 by Noel Teter '24

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

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

Posted on February 04, 2025 by Michael Rouleau '11

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

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

Posted on January 22, 2025 by Michael Rouleau

$150K grant launches PASS program for academic success
Grant bolsters existing 'Finishing Strong' initiative

Eastern Connecticut State University has received a three-year grant to enhance academic support for students striving to improve their academic standing. The Promoting Academically Successful...

Posted on November 20, 2024 by Ed Osborn

More than 100 first-generation students inducted into new honor society
Inaugural Tri Alpha ceremony caps off ‘First-Gen. Week’

Eastern Connecticut State University celebrated first-generation students with a week-long series of events Nov. 4–8, culminating with the University’s inaugural Tri Alpha National...

Posted on November 11, 2024 by Darlene Orozco B. '28

Princeton Review names Eastern a 'Green College' 15 years running
New initiatives in thrifting and food recovery advance University's sustainability mission

Eastern Connecticut State University is one of 511 institutions to be named to the Princeton Review's 2025 "Guide to Green Colleges." Since the guide was created in 2010, Eastern has...

Posted on October 30, 2024 by Noel Teter

Eastern to appear on Amazon Prime Video series 'The College Tour'

Eastern Connecticut State University will be featured on Amazon Prime's "The College Tour" next spring as one of the show's season 13 episodes. Filming took place on...

Posted on October 16, 2024 by Edward Osborn

‘Voting Matters’ kicks off with political panel featuring acclaimed professors

Eastern Connecticut State University began its “Voting Matters” week on Sept. 30 with a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring political science experts from prestigious...

Posted on October 02, 2024 by Kyle Berson

Big Read aims to connect readers to local environment
Months-long community reading program centered on 'The Bear'

Eastern Connecticut State University’s 2024-25 Big Read program kicked off on Sept. 18 with a presentation on the months-long series's themes, goals and events. The event was presented...

Posted on September 30, 2024 by Darlene Orozco B.

Eastern ranks among top 25 public universities in the North
U.S. News and World Report gives Eastern high marks in 3 categories

Eastern Connecticut State University has once again performed well in the U.S. News and World Report’s Best Colleges rankings, released on Sept. 24. In the 2025 report, Eastern ranks among...

Posted on September 24, 2024 by Michael Rouleau

'Voting Matters' campaign aims to increase voter turnout among students
Month-long series encourages participation ‘regardless of how you vote’

Eastern Connecticut State University will host a series of events throughout the month of October aimed at inspiring student participation in the 2024 presidential election. Kicking off Sept. 30 at...

Posted on September 18, 2024 by Michael Rouleau

Eastern welcomes largest class in years

Eastern welcomed its largest class of incoming students since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic on Aug. 27, when more than 800 first-year students began classes. The Class of 2028 grew 32% from...

Posted on September 03, 2024 by Michael Rouleau

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

Eastern faculty win BOR teaching and research awards

Three Eastern faculty members were recognized at the conclusion of the 2023-24 academic year as part of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) annual Board of Regents Faculty...

Posted on June 03, 2024 by Ed Osborn

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

Grant to Eastern will support work on AI in the humanities

Eastern Connecticut State University and four other public liberal arts colleges across the nation will develop new humanities courses that meet the challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI)...

Posted on May 23, 2024 by Cindy Weiss

900 receive degrees at Eastern’s 134th Commencement Exercises
Class of 2024 perseveres to graduation

Thousands of people filled the XL Center in Hartford on May 14 to celebrate nearly 900 Eastern Connecticut State University undergraduate students during the University’s annual graduation...

Posted on May 14, 2024 by Michael Rouleau

Eastern graduates 70 master’s degree candidates

“The world that we live in needs leaders; we have enough followers,” said alumnus and keynote speaker Joseph Lobe ’03, vice president and deputy general counsel for the Mohegan...

Posted on May 13, 2024 by Ed Osborn

Dr. Karim Ismaili appointed next president of Eastern Connecticut State University

Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) Chancellor Terrence Cheng announced May 7 that he will appoint Dr. Karim Ismaili as president of Eastern Connecticut State University. Dr. Ismaili...

Posted on May 07, 2024

Students honored for their impact on Eastern and beyond

3 students honored for social justice efforts

On April 30, three students were presented with awards to honor their commitment to promoting equity and social justice at Eastern Connecticut State University. The César Chávez Award was...

Posted on May 01, 2024 by Marcus Grant

Graduates of color honored at Intercultural Graduation

Students of color honored at Intercultural Graduation

Students of color gathered in the Art Gallery at Eastern Connecticut State University on April 18 to celebrate Intercultural Graduation. Organized by the Intercultural Center, the event recognized...

Posted on April 24, 2024 by Marcus Grant

2 seniors selected for Barnard Award, CSCU’s highest academic honor

Two seniors who are roommates at Eastern Connecticut State University, Kathryn Kubisek and Billi Kozak, will each receive the 2024 Henry Barnard Distinguished Student Award, the top academic award...

Posted on April 22, 2024 by Lucinda Weiss

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

Campus unites during eclipse

On April 8, 2024, the Great North American Eclipse captivated hundreds of starry-eyed Eastern Connecticut State University students on Webb Lawn as the sun and moon merged at 3 p.m.

Posted on April 15, 2024 by Elisabeth Craig

Eastern President Honored by Three National Higher Education and Immigrant Rights Organizations

President Núñez honored by 3 national immigrant rights organizations

Houston, TX - On Friday, March 29, Elsa Núñez, president of Eastern Connecticut State University, was one of 11 recipients of the first SUCCESS Awards, hosted in Houston, TX, by...

Posted on April 04, 2024 by Ed Osborn

4th annual 'End Relationship Violence' event honors Alyssiah Wiley

Eastern Connecticut State University hosted its fourth annual End Relationship Violence awareness event on April 3 in memory of Alyssiah Wiley, an Eastern student who was murdered by her...

Posted on April 04, 2024 by Noel Teter

Eastern welcomes future Warriors at Accepted Students Day

Eastern Connecticut State University welcomed 260 prospective students to campus on March 24. While there, they and their families spoke with current students, staff and faculty about life at...

Posted on April 03, 2024 by Marcus Grant

President Núñez honored at inaugural 'Shades of Success'
Women of color share their experiences in academia

President Elsa Núñez was named the inaugural honoree of the “Shades of Success” forum for her continued impact on increasing accessibility and diversity at Eastern Connecticut...

Posted on April 02, 2024 by Marcus Grant

Eastern Hall makes way for green space

Recycling cardboard, paper and plastic has become a weekly routine for many households, but Eastern Connecticut State University is taking sustainability a step further by recycling a building as...

Posted on March 28, 2024 by Lucinda Weiss

Outstanding future professionals honored at national physical education conference

Two students from Eastern Connecticut State University recently traveled to Cleveland, Ohio, for the SHAPE America National Convention — the nation’s leading convention for health and...

Posted on March 21, 2024 by Marcus Grant

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

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

CAB leaders at Pittsburgh conference gather info for Eastern events

Two student members of the Campus Activity Board (CAB) at Eastern Connecticut State University gathered ideas for future events and networked with staff and students at other universities at the...

Posted on March 05, 2024 by Lucinda Weiss

Eastern releases first Spanish language commercial

“Cada estudiante es una persona única,” or (translated) “every student is a unique person,” said student Akianys Torres ’26 in the newest commercial for Eastern...

Posted on February 20, 2024 by Marcus Grant

Psychology recognized for behavior analysis program

A new recognition for the behavior analysis concentration in Eastern Connecticut State University’s Psychology Department is “a real mark of distinction for the University” and...

Posted on February 15, 2024 by Lucinda Weiss

SUOAF donates $3,000 to local soup kitchen

Eastern’s union for administrative faculty, SUOAF, donated $3,000 to the Covenant Soup Kitchen this recent holiday season. The gift goes toward the soup kitchen’s annual Plunge For...

Posted on January 18, 2024 by Michael Rouleau

'Generation Alpha is coming,' alerts President Núñez at University Meeting

Generation Alpha will soon be going to college, and “We have to be ready to welcome the Alphas on campus,” said President Elsa Núñez to faculty and staff at the University...

Posted on January 17, 2024 by Lucinda Weiss

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

4 advanced graduate programs move fully online this spring

Four accelerated online graduate programs designed to meet the needs of working professionals will begin at Eastern Connecticut State University in the Spring 2024 semester, with master’s...

Posted on December 06, 2023 by Cindy Weiss

$500k grant aims to increase STEM diversity and retention

Minority students applying to Eastern Connecticut State University in 2024 who plan to major in the sciences or mathematics will be recruited for a new STEM mentoring program funded by a National...

Posted on November 28, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Eastern students stand out at physical education conference

Physical education students stand out at state conference
Eastern wins College Bowl second year in a row

Eastern’s physical education majors won the College Bowl at the Connecticut Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (CTAHPERD) fall conference on Nov. 16 and 17,...

Posted on November 28, 2023 by Marcus Grant

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

Eastern's preschool staff present on dramatic retelling

Two representatives from Eastern’s Child and Family Development Research Center (CFDRC) recently presented at the National Association for the Education of Young Children in Nashville, TN....

Posted on November 27, 2023 by Elisabeth Craig

CAB recognized for programming excellence

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Campus Activity Board (CAB) has been recognized for its achievements in on-campus programs. The Northeast Region of the National Association for Campus...

Posted on November 20, 2023 by Noel Teter

Eastern earns dual honors from Princeton Review for sustainability and campus life

Eastern Connecticut State University is traditionally recognized for its sustainability efforts, and this year is no exception. For 2024, Eastern has been named to The Princeton Review’s...

Posted on November 20, 2023 by Noel Teter

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

Veterans Day ceremony honors service, unites campus community

Eastern Connecticut State University recognized Veterans Day at the Student Center on Nov. 10 with a ceremony of several heartfelt speeches, a presentation of colors and a performance of “The...

Posted on November 10, 2023 by Noel Teter

Open House welcomes prospective students to campus
Current students explain why Eastern is a 'beacon of opportunity'

Eastern Connecticut State University welcomed prospective students and their families to campus on Oct. 21 for the opportunity to walk around campus, speak with current students and faculty and get...

Posted on October 24, 2023 by Marcus Grant

Wintner awarded Fulbright-Nehru fellowship to teach in India

Julia Wintner, director of Eastern Connecticut State University’s Art Gallery, was recently awarded a Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Fellowship to teach in Bangalore, South India....

Posted on October 18, 2023 by Marcus Grant

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

Eastern police recognized for commitment to officer wellness

The Eastern Connecticut State University Police Department has won recognition for its commitment to maintaining wellness in its staff members. The Connecticut Police Chiefs Association (CPCA) on...

Posted on October 11, 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

Gov. Lamont urges students to seek jobs in Connecticut

Gov. Ned Lamont urged Eastern Connecticut State University students to build careers in Connecticut during a visit with the Student Government Association (SGA) on Sept. 18. During the SGA meeting,...

Posted on September 25, 2023 by Elisabeth Craig

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

Eastern documentary on Tulsa Race Massacre well received at film festivals

A documentary film directed by Eastern Connecticut State University’s theatre Professor Brian Day about the Tulsa race massacre of 1921 captured attention at several film festivals this past...

Posted on September 08, 2023 by Elisabeth Craig

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

CALAHE awards scholarships at Eastern luncheon

The Connecticut Association of Latinos in Higher Education (CALAHE) held its annual scholarship luncheon at Eastern Connecticut State University on Aug. 3, offering scholarships to first-generation...

Posted on August 14, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

New College of Business brings together business majors
Communication, Film and Theatre also merge

Students majoring in business subjects will now be part of the College of Business at Eastern Connecticut State University. The move is part of a rebranding this past spring that includes the...

Posted on July 05, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Núñez writes about how to broaden college access
Eastern’s president authors chapter in ‘The Evolving College Presidency’

Improving access to higher education for underrepresented students will help ensure future economic prosperity and social stability, explains Eastern Connecticut State University President Elsa...

Posted on June 15, 2023 by Cindy Weiss and Michael Rouleau

Eastern again cited as a ‘College of Distinction’

Eastern Connecticut State University is a “College of Distinction” for the 2023-24 academic year, a designation given by an organization of the same name that evaluates undergraduate...

Posted on June 06, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

2 professors win Board of Regents awards for teaching, research

Two Eastern Connecticut State University faculty were recognized for excellence in teaching and research by the Connecticut Board of Regents in its annual faculty awards.

Posted on May 30, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Daniel Donaghy named Eastern’s Distinguished Professor of the Year

Poet Daniel Donaghy, professor of English, was named the 2023 Distinguished Professor of the Year at Eastern Connecticut State University, affirming his own belief that, “Yes, you can teach...

Posted on May 30, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

President Elsa Núñez announces retirement
After serving 18 years, University's sixth president announces transition

Elsa M. Núñez, the sixth president of Eastern Connecticut State University, announced her retirement today. Núñez began her presidency in 2006 and will support the University as...

Posted on May 18, 2023 by Michael Stenko

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

Regent McCarthy makes first visit to Eastern

James McCarthy, a new board member of the Connecticut Board of Regents for Higher Education (BOR), visited Eastern Connecticut State University on May 4 to hear about the concerns of faculty and...

Posted on May 04, 2023

3 students awarded for equity and social justice

Three Eastern Connecticut State University students have won Equity and Social Justice Awards for their work promoting civil rights, resources for undocumented students, and mental health services...

Posted on April 27, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

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 police win Tier I accreditation from state standards council

The Eastern Connecticut State University police department has earned Tier I state accreditation, the first step in a continuing process to ensure that the department’s policies, procedures...

Posted on April 25, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Treasurer Russell kicks off Diversity Week calling for an inclusive Connecticut

State Treasurer Erick Russell called on the Eastern Connecticut State University community to maximize opportunities for all as he kicked off Diversity Week at Eastern with a talk that acknowledged...

Posted on April 18, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Senator Chris Murphy addresses students’ concerns

U.S. Senator Chris Murphy fielded questions ranging from gun violence to foreign policy at an open forum on April 12 sponsored by the Political Science Club and the Department of Political Science,...

Posted on April 17, 2023 by Jack Jones

2 Eastern seniors win CSCU’s top undergraduate award
Barnard award goes to Emily Barata and Judith Arroyo Cervantes

Two seniors at Eastern Connecticut State University, Emily Barata of New Fairfield and Judith Ariana Arroyo Cervantes of Manchester, are recipients of the 2023 Henry Barnard Distinguished Student...

Posted on April 10, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Connecticut attorney general speaks with Eastern students

Speaking to a crowd of Eastern students, faculty and staff on April 5, Connecticut Attorney General William Tong said the reasons why he pursued his law career and went on to become the first Asian...

Posted on April 06, 2023 by Amanda Irwin

Music students win prizes at statewide voice auditions

Eastern Connecticut State University music students had a strong showing in statewide student auditions held by the Connecticut chapter of the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS).

Posted on April 04, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

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

Physical education students win national college bowl

For the second year in a row and fourth year overall, Eastern physical education teacher candidates have won the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) America National College Bowl.

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

Members of Eastern's Department of Public Safety

Officer Nietupski promoted to sergeant

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Department of Public Safety celebrated the promotion of Officer Christine Nietupski on Friday, March 24, who was sworn in as sergeant during a ceremony...

Posted on March 27, 2023 by Molly Boucher

Eastern sends 2 to select institute for aspiring college executives

Two staff members at Eastern Connecticut State University who work closely with students were selected to attend the yearlong Executive Leadership Institute at Bridgewater State University in...

Posted on March 22, 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

President Cheng calls for advocacy to increase higher education budgets

President Terrence Cheng of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) urged students, faculty and staff at Eastern Connecticut State University to talk to local legislators about...

Posted on March 07, 2023 by Lucinda Weiss

Eastern requests nominations for spring 2023 excellence awards

Eastern Connecticut State University is requesting nominations for its annual excellence awards. Each year, Eastern presents six excellence awards to employees who made outstanding contributions to...

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

Eastern receives STARS Gold rating for sustainability
Eastern joins Yale and Conn College as state's only Gold campuses

Eastern Connecticut State University has received its first Gold rating for sustainability by STARS--the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System. Eastern has one of only three Gold...

Posted on December 12, 2022 by by Michael Rouleau

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

Physical education majors win College Bowl

Six physical education teacher candidates at Eastern placed first in the 13th annual Connecticut Association for Health Physical Education and Dance (CTAHPERD) Dee Perilli College Bowl on Nov. 17...

Posted on December 05, 2022 by Jack Jones

Eastern’s Joshua Sumrell receives Prospanica’s Education Leadership Award

The Prospanica Connecticut Chapter Board of Directors selected Joshua Sumrell, coordinator of the Intercultural Center, to receive its 2022 Education Leadership Award. The award recognizes...

Posted on November 16, 2022 by Jack Jones

Eastern makes Princeton Review's Green Colleges list for 13th year

For the 13th year in a row, Eastern Connecticut State University is recognized in the Princeton Review’s “Guide to Green Colleges.” More than 700 schools were reviewed for their...

Posted on November 16, 2022 by Molly Boucher

Price of freedom invoked at Veterans Day ceremony
Eastern hosts Command Sergeant Major John S. Carragher

The price of freedom and gratitude toward veterans resounded at the annual Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 11 at Eastern Connecticut State University.

Posted on November 11, 2022 by Lucinda Weiss

CAB wins programming excellence award

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Campus Activity Board (CAB) was recently recognized for its dedication to campus involvement at the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA)...

Posted on November 09, 2022 by Molly Boucher

Meet the Deans
A conversation with Niti Pandey and Emily Todd

Niti Pandey and Emily Todd come from different realms of academia, but as Eastern’s two deans, they are united in their mission to advance the liberal arts. Niti Pandey is the dean of the...

Posted on November 07, 2022 by Molly Boucher

CSCU President Terrence Cheng speaks at Eastern Connecticut State University.

‘What qualifies as American?’
CSCU President Terrence Cheng dissects model minority stereotype in ‘Big Read’ talk

Eastern kicked off its National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) ‘Big Read’ program on Oct. 27 with a talk by Terrence Cheng, president of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities...

Posted on November 02, 2022 by Michael Rouleau

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's teacher preparation programs receive Frank Murray Recognition

Eastern’s teacher preparation programs recently received the 2022 “Frank Murray Recognition for Continuous Improvement” by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator...

Posted on October 12, 2022 by Jack Jones

Princeton Review names Eastern a 2023 top college in Northeast

Eastern is featured as one of the 224 best colleges in the Northeast for the 2023 academic year in the Princeton Review’s annual “Best Regional Colleges” list, released this past...

Posted on September 26, 2022 by Jack Jones

Eastern police swear in Officer Morgan Velez

On Sept. 20, the Campus Police at Eastern Connecticut State University swore in a new officer. Morgan Velez will enter the Connecticut Police Academy’s 376th session on Sept. 22 and is...

Posted on September 22, 2022 by Noel Teter

Eastern to host congressional debate prior to November elections

Eastern Connecticut State University will host a debate for the 2nd Congressional District on Oct. 4 as part of a series of election-season debates sponsored by Connecticut Public and the...

Posted on September 14, 2022

Eastern ranked in top 20 by U.S. News & World Report
2022-23 rankings place Eastern among the best public institutions in the North

Eastern Connecticut State University is ranked among the top 20 public regional universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report in its 2022-23 rankings, released Sept. 12. Considered the...

Posted on September 12, 2022 by Michael Rouleau

‘Good and lucky’: President Núñez addresses the state of the university

Hundreds of faculty and staff packed the Betty R. Tipton Room on Aug. 24 for the first in-person University Meeting in more than two years. Following employee/retiree recognitions, President Elsa...

Posted on August 31, 2022 by Michael Rouleau

Eastern Police Chief Tavares honored at ‘100 Men of Color’ gala

Stephen Tavares ’96 of New Hartford, chief of police at Eastern Connecticut State University, was honored at the “100 Men of Color” Black-Tie Gala and Awards on Aug. 12 at the...

Posted on August 23, 2022 by Dwight Bachman

Eastern police dedicate Chief Edward Casey memorial

The Department of Public Safety dedicated the Chief Edward Casey memorial to its new location on July 13 at the Eastern police department. Chief Casey was a member of the Windham Special Police...

Posted on July 26, 2022 by Michael Rouleau

Eastern partners with Waterbury Promise
Partnership matches scholarships for Waterbury students

Eastern Connecticut State University is the first Connecticut State University (CSU) to partner with Waterbury Promise, Inc. to provide increased financial aid to students residing in Waterbury....

Posted on July 07, 2022 by Amanda Irwin

Eastern Warriors top Little East Conference in athletics and academics
Student-athletes win consecutive LEC Commissioner’s and Presidents’ Cups

Following the success of its NCAA Division III national championship baseball team, the Warriors at Eastern Connecticut State University concluded the 2021-22 academic year winning the Little East...

Posted on July 06, 2022 by Michael Rouleau

Eastern to host Connecticut’s first cannabis academic research conference
Registration now open for NECREC

Eastern Connecticut State University will host the first New England Cannabis Research and Education Conference (NECREC) on October 21-22. Connecticut’s first academic conference on cannabis...

Posted on June 22, 2022 by Amanda Irwin

Eastern names 2 deans to lead Schools of Arts & Sciences, Education & Professional Studies

After conducting national searches, Dr. Emily Todd and Dr. Niti Pandey have been named deans at Eastern Connecticut State University for the 2022-2023 school year.

Posted on June 21, 2022 by Amanda Irwin

Campus Briefs
Commissioner's Cup | 'Book of Queer' | College of Distinction

Eastern wins 5th consecutive Commissioner’s Cup; Eastern named a 2022-23 College of Distinction; Eastern names 2 permanent deans; Student wins NAACP scholarship; Historian Tom Balcerski...

Posted on June 17, 2022

Eastern named a 2022-23 College of Distinction

Colleges of Distinction has recognized Eastern Connecticut State University for a variety of distinctions in its 2022-23 rankings, including badges of distinction for Public Colleges, Connecticut...

Posted on June 16, 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

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

Nicholas Simon wins CSCU system teaching excellence award

The Board of Regents (BOR) of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities System (CSCU) has named Nicholas Simon, assistant professor of sociology at Eastern Connecticut State University, the...

Posted on May 24, 2022 by Dwight Bachman

Eastern remembers fallen police officers

On May 20, Eastern Connecticut State University students, faculty and staff gathered outside Campus Police headquarters to participate in Police Appreciation Day. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy...

Posted on May 23, 2022 by Dwight Bachman

Eastern graduates 958 at 2022 Commencement Exercises
CRT’s Lena Rodriguez gives commencement address

Eastern Connecticut State University returned to the XL Center in Hartford, CT, on May 17, for the first time in three years to hold graduation exercises. Looking out at the graduates and upwards...

Posted on May 18, 2022 by Ed Osborn

Eastern announces partnership with Hispanic Alliance of Southeastern Connecticut

On May 16, Eastern Connecticut State University signed a historic partnership agreement with the Hispanic Alliance of Southeastern Connecticut to offer scholarships to students from Latino...

Posted on May 17, 2022 by Dwight Bachman

84 receive degrees at Eastern's graduate hooding ceremony
Secretary of State Denise Merrill delivers commencement address

With more than 250 guests joining the graduating class and their faculty, the Concert Hall in the Fine Arts Instructional Center at Eastern Connecticut State University was at full capacity on May...

Posted on May 16, 2022 by Ed Osborn

University Meeting discusses plans for a sustainable future

Eastern Connecticut State University’s first in-person University Meeting in more than two years took place on May 6 in the Betty R. Tipton Room of the Student Center, showcasing the...

Posted on May 13, 2022 by Dwight Bachman

SHAPE Bowl team left to right: Sarah Gallagher '23, Cole Paquin '23, Joe Banas '22 and Madeleine McGee '22.

Third win for physical education students at SHAPE Bowl

Eastern Connecticut State University’s Physical Education program continued its tradition of winning the annual Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) College Bowl competition on...

Posted on May 02, 2022 by Molly Boucher

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

Barnard Scholars Nelson Javier Santos Ferrer and Natalie Devlin stand beside Eastern President Elsa Núñez and Todd Cooper, CSCSU board member and management program analyst with the U.S. Office of Personnel Management.

2 seniors receive Henry Barnard Distinguished Student Award

Eastern Connecticut State University students Nelson Javier Santos Ferrer ’22 of Westfield, MA, and Natalie Devlin ’22 of Somers, CT, have been named recipients of the 2022 Henry...

Posted on April 29, 2022 by Dwight Bachman

Students Edgar Escutia ('24) and Frida Nieto-Gonzalez ('24), Opportunity Scholars who attended the event with President Nunez and Chris Ambrosio.

'Under-documented' students attend first SUCCESS national conference
Conference dedicated to supporting undocumented college students

In its sixth year, the Opportunity Scholars program is privately funded through TheDream.US foundation, which provides scholarships to undocumented students in the United States. Launched by former...

Posted on April 18, 2022 by Amanda Irwin; Contributor: Ed Osborn

Cheerleading team places in top 10 at College Nationals

The club cheerleading team at Eastern Connecticut State University finished in the top 10 at the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) College Nationals this April 6–10 in Daytona Beach,...

Posted on April 18, 2022 by Michael Rouleau

Student Olivia Wronka crowned Miss Little Poland

Eastern Connecticut State University senior Olivia Wronka was crowned Miss Little Poland in September 2021 at the annual Little Poland Festival in New Britain. New Britain is home to the...

Posted on April 12, 2022 by Bobbi Brown

Nonprofit leader Lena Rodriguez named 132nd commencement speaker

Lena Rodriguez, CEO and president of the Community Renewal Team in Hartford, CT, will give the commencement address at Eastern Connecticut State University’s 132nd Commencement Exercises on...

Posted on April 06, 2022 by Ed Osborn

DeLapp appointed as Fulbright Program Adviser

Students interested in traveling abroad and advancing their academic careers will receive additional support from an Eastern staff member with close ties to the prestigious Fulbright U.S. Student...

Posted on March 16, 2022 by Molly Boucher

President Núñez voices support for Ukraine

I ask all members of the Eastern Connecticut State University family to join me in lifting up the people of Ukraine as they continue to confront a foreign invasion on their sovereign soil. Please...

Posted on February 28, 2022 by Elsa Núñez

Eastern co-founds North Star Collective to benefit faculty of color
Inaugural fellowship selects Professors Williams and Logan

Eastern Connecticut State University is one of 13 founding institutions of a new reparative justice effort by the New England Board of Higher Education (NEBHE). The North Star Collective comprises...

Posted on January 26, 2022 by Michael Rouleau

Eastern marches forward with success and cautious optimism

Citing Eastern Connecticut State University’s successful operation during the fall semester — NECHE reaccreditation, outstanding rankings in U.S. News and World Report, low COVID rates...

Posted on January 20, 2022 by Dwight Bachman

Eastern receives National Endowment for the Arts Big Read grant
University to read and celebrate ‘The Best We Could Do’

Eastern Connecticut State University is one of 61 organizations nationwide selected to receive a 2021-22 Big Read grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). The grant of $20,000 —...

Posted on July 21, 2021

Eastern is top university for ‘Opportunity Scholars’
TheDream.US program provides full scholarships to undocumented students

Since TheDream.US started its groundbreaking scholarship program to support undocumented students in 2016, it has relied on five institutions nationwide to host more than 600 Opportunity Scholars....

Posted on July 15, 2021 by Michael Rouleau

Campus Briefs

See the graduates of the class of 2021; Eastern named a 2021–22 'College of Distinction; SOAR welcomes Class of 2025: Murdoch honored as faculty mentor by QUBES; Police departments runs...

Posted on July 14, 2021

Eastern named a 2021–22 ‘College of Distinction’

Colleges of Distinction has recognized Eastern Connecticut State University for a variety of distinctions in its 2021-22 rankings, including badges of distinction for Public Colleges, Connecticut...

Posted on July 13, 2021

Eastern releases Title IX report
TNG Group recommends staffing and process changes

Eastern released a report today from TNG Consulting group, following a two-month review of the University's Title IX practices and procedures. The report recommends staffing and process...

Posted on June 30, 2021 by Ed Osborn

Eastern's early childhood center wins 7th Telly Award
Video investigating play of dual-language learners wins bronze award

The Center for Early Childhood Education (CECE) at Eastern Connecticut State University was recently awarded a “Telly Award” for one of its video productions. The video, “A Study...

Posted on June 03, 2021 by Dwight Bachman

Kemesha Wilmot honored at '100 Women of Color' gala

Kemesha Wilmot '05 of New Britain, associate director for the Center for Community Engagement (CCE) at Eastern Connecticut State University, was honored at the June Archer and Eleven28...

Posted on May 24, 2021 by Bobbi Brown

Hundreds recognized at honor societies, award ceremonies

More than 20 academic programs and departments at Eastern Connecticut State University recognized student achievements this 2020-21 academic year during award ceremonies and honor society inductions.

Posted on May 19, 2021 by Michael Rouleau

Campus Briefs

Honors Program recognizes graduating members at Senior Reception; Cerra awarded at New England estuarine research conference; Mesagno hits walk-off grand slam to propel Warriors to LEC finals; and...

Posted on May 19, 2021

Eastern graduates upwards of 1,000 at on-campus commencement exercises
4 ceremonies honor the Classes of 2021 and 2020

On May 15 and May 16, Eastern Connecticut State University returned to its Willimantic, CT, campus for the first time in 13 years to hold graduation exercises.

Posted on May 16, 2021 by Ed Osborn

Inclusive Excellence Awards recognize achievements of students of color
Keynote speaker David Jones ’04 speaks to equality

Eastern Connecticut State University held its Eighth Annual Inclusive Excellence Student Awards Ceremony on May 6. The ceremony honors the academic achievements of African, Latino, Asian and Native...

Posted on May 12, 2021 by Bobbi Brown

Eastern community looks forward to a ‘return to normal’

Members of the Eastern community tuned in for what was hopefully the last virtual University Meeting on May 7. The biannual meeting recapped the trials and triumphs of an entire academic year...

Posted on May 11, 2021 by Dwight Bachman

Physical education students, professor receive SHAPE America awards

Two students and one faculty member from Eastern’s Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education (KPE) received awards at the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) Eastern...

Posted on May 06, 2021 by Bobbi Brown

3 Eastern faculty receive Board of Regents Faculty Awards

The Board of Regents (BOR) for Higher Education honored three faculty members from Eastern Connecticut State University in its annual Faculty Awards program for the 17 institutions in the...

Posted on May 05, 2021 by Dwight Bachman

Student Lizbeth Macias shares stage with U.S. Department of Education Secretary Cardona

Eastern Connecticut State University junior Lizbeth Macias of Waukesha, WI, participated in a national panel on April 20 to discuss DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) students and the...

Posted on April 27, 2021 by Ed Osborn

Eastern to host 4 Commencement Exercises for Classes of 2021 and 2020
University to award 3 honorary degrees

Eastern Connecticut State University’s 131st Annual Commencement Exercises will feature four on-ground graduation ceremonies on May 15 and May 16 to honor the classes of 2021 and 2020. With...

Posted on April 22, 2021 by Michael Rouleau

Eastern hosts Diversity and Inclusion Week

From April 12-16, Eastern Connecticut State University’s Student Affairs Diversity and Inclusion Committee sponsored a week of in-person and virtual events to raise public awareness and...

Posted on April 21, 2021 by Dwight Bachman

Gomez-Stafford and Beazoglou named 2020-21 Barnard Scholars
2 graduating seniors poised for careers in genetic counseling and healthcare management

Two graduating seniors from Eastern Connecticut State University are recipients of the Henry Barnard Distinguished Student Awards this 2020-21 academic year. The award is the highest undergraduate...

Posted on April 08, 2021 by Michael Rouleau

Third virtual town hall discusses social justice and diversity on campus

Eastern Connecticut State University’s student chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and Eastern’s Multicultural Leadership Council welcomed...

Posted on March 24, 2021 by Dwight Bachman

Eastern to offer in-person graduation ceremony for Class of 2020

On Sunday, May 16, 2021, at 10 a.m., Eastern Connecticut State University will hold in-person Commencement Exercises for the Class of 2020. The event will take place on the Windham Technical High...

Posted on March 18, 2021 by Ed Osborn

2021 Eastern commencement to be on-ground
Ceremony divided into 3 sessions

The 131st Annual Eastern Connecticut State University Commencement Exercises will take place in person on Saturday, May 15, adjacent to the Eastern campus.

Posted on March 11, 2021 by Ed Osborn

Eastern reaffirms commitment to climate as nation pivots
University’s 2020 Climate Action Plan outlines way to a greener future

Eastern Connecticut State University has reaffirmed its commitment to meeting the challenges of climate change, reflecting recent moves by the federal government and thousands of environmental...

Posted on February 24, 2021 by Michael Rouleau