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Eastern’s first women’s flag football team is ready to make history

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Eastern’s newest Warriors gather on Webb Lawn for Light the Way, a candle-lighting ceremony marking the start of their college journey. Publisher Quigley Executive Editor Michael Roule le eau au ’11 Assistant Editor Ashley Orcuttt Designers Leigh Balducci | Kevvin Paq aquin uin ’98 8 S yl Sk yler er Rap apac acio ioli ’28 28 Photographer Tom Hur urlb lbut lb u ut Contributors Tho homa oma mass Bal alce c rs ce rski ki Kyle Ky le Ber erso son so n ’26 | Elilisa sabe sa be etth h Cra raig ig ’26 2 Sara Sa raah Duff u y ’26 26 | Bri r an n Lasshl hley eyy | Bob o Mol o taa ’78 7 Ed dwa ward Osb ward s or o n | She heilililaa RuJou ub ’14 4 Sava Sa vann nn nah Striaan no o ’25 2 | No oe el Tet eter ’24 24 4

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WHAT'S INSIDE

FEATURES

Congratulations, Class of 2026!

Where Play Meets Purpose 20 years of the Child and Family Development Resource Center

A Hotbed of Patriotism Eastern Connecticut’s role in the founding of America

The Man Behind Occum Hall Samson Occum, a pillar of Mohegan history

In Good Company The remarkable individuals with an Eastern honorary degree

AI and Your Job Hunt How new HR technologies impact the recruitment process

The Teachers Among Us Eastern’s tradition of preparing exceptional educators continues

Clock Tower Conundrums

Beyond Borders Eastern alumni serve around the world through Peace Corps

Connecting the Dots Faculty and staff ponder the liberal arts

On Their Own Turf Eastern’s first women’s flag football team is ready to make history

SECTIONS

President's Message Campus Briefs Athletics Alumni Notes

2 4 40 43

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

Navigating Our Journey Ahead

Dear Alumni and Friends, There is an unmistakable energy at Eastern Connecticut State University right now. This fall, we welcomed the largest incoming class in Eastern’s history, with more than 1,100 firstyear students and nearly 300 new transfer students joining our community. More than 90 percent of our first-year students are living on campus, filling our residence halls and bringing renewed energy to our classrooms, dining halls, athletic fields, performance spaces, and gathering places. Seeing these students arrive was a powerful reminder of the confidence that students and families are placing in Eastern and the enduring appeal of the distinctive education we provide. Our growth is exciting, but the numbers tell only part of the story. What matters most is what students experience once they arrive. Eastern remains proudly rooted in its mission as Connecticut’s public liberal arts university. Our students learn in small classes with dedicated faculty who know them personally and challenge them to think deeply

about the world around them. They engage in research, internships, community-based learning, athletics, the arts, leadership opportunities, and experiences that connect their education to their lives beyond college. They also become part of a primarily residential community where relationships matter. That sense of belonging has always been one of Eastern’s great strengths, and it is something I hear repeatedly from our students and alumni. More than half of this year’s firstyear class are the first generation in their families to attend college. I know personally how transformative that opportunity can be. Each of these students arrives with their own story, ambitions, and hopes for the future. Our responsibility is to help them discover what is possible and give them the knowledge, confidence, and experiences to pursue lives of meaning and impact. That responsibility extends well beyond our campus. Eastern has served Connecticut for more than 135 years, and I believe deeply that public universities must contribute to the public good. We prepare graduates who strengthen our schools, businesses, healthcare organizations, nonprofits, public agencies, and communities. Our students serve throughout the region, our faculty create and share knowledge, and our alumni make an impact across Connecticut and far beyond. As we welcome this period of growth, we are also looking confidently toward our future. Over the past two years, conversations with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners

have helped us define what our community values most and where we see our greatest opportunities. Those conversations have shaped Eastern’s Strategic Compass, which will guide our work in the years ahead. The six goals of the Strategic Compass are included in this issue, and I encourage you to visit our Strategic Compass website to explore in greater detail where we are headed and the priorities that will help move Eastern forward. Together, these goals reflect our commitment to our academic identity, student success, our people, innovation, enrollment, and our relationship with the communities we serve. What gives me the greatest confidence is the strength from which we are building. Everywhere I look, I see faculty mentoring students, staff creating opportunities for them to succeed, alumni remaining deeply connected to their University, and students discovering talents and aspirations they may not have imagined before arriving here. I am excited about what lies ahead for Eastern. Thank you for your continued belief in this University, our mission, and most importantly, our students. Warm regards,

Karim Ismaili, Ph.D. President

Learn more about Eastern's Strategic Compass.

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GOALS 1

Nurture a university culture that continually seeks new opportunities and strives to operate at the leading edge of innovation. “Innovation at Eastern means building a university where modern systems, collaborative partnerships, and bold ideas empower our community to achieve lasting impact.”

Sharpen our academic identity to make it increasingly clear and compelling.

“Eastern’s academic identity is rooted in the power of the liberal arts, and we are committed to making that mission more visible, more connected, and more impactt ful for our students and society.”

Elevate student success and improve the overall student experience.

EASTERN’S

“Eastern is committed to strengthening ties with our hometown and the state at large by expanding community partnerships, supporting local economic growth, and creating meaningful opportunities for shared engagement.”

“By investing in our people, celebrating their achievements, and creating a culture of care, Eastern will continue to strengthen the sense of community that defines the best of who we are.”

STRATEGIC COMPASS MISSION

“Student success is about more than earning a degree — it means ensuring every student feels supported and equipped with the opportunities and resources to reach their full potential.”

Invigorate our relationships with the town and region to advance bolder and more imaginative initiatives together.

Strengthen Eastern’s spirit of community and support its people.

Eastern Connecticut State University engages students from diverse backgrounds in a transformative, liberal arts learning experience that provides knowledge and skills to lead enriching and purposeful lives.

Bolster our capabilities for attracting students from traditional and emerging populations. “Our future depends on meeting students where they are, creating more pathways to a degree, and building a welcoming community that empowers every student to succeed.”

VISION Eastern Connecticut State University aspires to be widely regarded as a premier public liberal arts institution, with graduates who embody the University’s mission throughout their lives.

EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 3

Nursing ‘sim lab’ opens in Windham Hospital By Michael Rouleau ’11

astern and Hartford HealthCare unveiled a new state-of-theart nursing simulation lab in Windham Hospital last fall. With Eastern students, state dignitaries, and CSCU and Hartford HealthCare executives in attendance, the ceremony marked a momentous

4 • Fall 2026 • EASTERN

development in an effort to alleviate the region's nursing shortage. Spanning 6,500 square feet, the new simulation lab is the largest facility of its kind in eastern Connecticut. Called the Eastern Connecticut State University/Hartford HealthCare Center for Education Simulation and

Innovation (Eastern/HHC CESI), the lab is a high-tech, hospital-based simulation unit and the cornerstone of Eastern’s new Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. “In this space, our students will learn, practice, and gain confidence in a setting that mirrors the realities of modern healthcare,” said Eastern President Karim Ismaili. “Thanks to the partnership of Hartford HealthCare, this state-of-the-art training environment will prepare students with the technical skills, judgment, and compassion needed to transform lives and address the urgent nursing shortage in Connecticut.” Featuring high-tech simulation spaces with industrystandard hospital equipment, the "sim lab" will help to prepare Eastern nursing students for all aspects of nursing practice. Designated simulation spaces include: an ICU room; a labor and delivery/pediatric

CAMPUS BRIEFS

“This collaboration is a model for how health systems and universities can work together to solve workforce challenges,” said Jeffrey Flaks, president and CEO of Hartford HealthCare. “We are proud to partner with Eastern to create a learning environment that not only trains nurses but inspires them. Together, we are investing in the future of healthcare — one student, one simulation, one life-changing experience at a time.” care room; three standardized patient rooms for realistic patient simulations; and a large tasks/training skills room with hospital beds, stretchers, high-fidelity manikins, and more. “I am extremely impressed with the amount of advanced equipment available in the new simulation lab,” said nursing student Miguel Torres. “While I knew the lab was coming, I didn’t expect anything of this scale. It is amazing to have this resource as part of our nursing education at Eastern, as it provides a true hospital-like experience that will prepare us for the real world.”

The creation of the new simulation lab — and Eastern’s nursing program overall — was funded by a $1.2-million grant from the CT Health Horizons Initiative, a $35-million investment aimed at addressing the nursing shortage in Connecticut. According to CT Health Horizons, hundreds of nursing positions go unfilled each year as the rate of retirements and people leaving the field outpaces the number of new nurses. Additionally, student enrollment demands continue to outpace the number of available seats in nursing programs.

Take a virtual tour of the sim lab.

EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 5

CAMPUS BRIEFS

Eastern Passport draws students to downtown Willimantic By Kyle Berson ’26

astern students are now able to frequent Willimantic businesses at a bargain rate thanks to the Eastern Passport, a rewards and discount program aimed at strengthening ties between downtown Willimantic and the Eastern student community.

The growing program features nearly 40 businesses, doling out everything from tattoos and oil changes to yoga classes and cupcakes. Available on Apple Wallet and Google Wallet, students simply redeem deals by swiping their digital “passport” at checkout. Development of the Eastern Passport was spearheaded by Sarah Duffy ’26 while working as a student employee with the Office of University Communications and Marketing. While the passport provides “deals on everything from tacos to sunglasses,” Duffy noted, “It’s not just about the discounts … it’s about getting off campus to explore Willimantic and supporting a community that supports us.” Chris McNaboe, chair of the Willimantic Downtown Neighborhood Association, envisions a growing relationship between Eastern students and

Goliath: Eastern PD's cutest recruit By Elisabeth Craig ’26

he Eastern police department recently welcomed its cutest recruit. Goliath, a young Labrador retriever, excitedly began his career as a facility dog in spring 2026. Goliath can be spotted, tail wagging, on campus during his shifts with Officer Beverly Brown, who helped bring him to Eastern through Canine Companions, a non-profit organization that trains service and facility dogs. Goliath’s work as a dedicated facility dog sets him apart from traditional police dogs and service dogs. “He’s not a bomb-sniffing dog, a biter, or a bloodhound,” said Brown. “He is a lover and here to build community relations.” While service dogs are traditionally assigned to assist a single person with specific tasks, Goliath works to support the entire university community, including helping to create a calm environment during sensitive times for students. “We hope that he will build a soothing atmosphere where someone can feel more comfortable during a challenging situation,” said Brown. Beyond crisis response, students are encouraged to approach Goliath on patrol for everyday stress relief. So far, his reception on campus has been warm. “Everybody here absolutely loves him and gets a chuckle from him,” said Brown. “Ruff ruff,” Goliath agreed.

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Learn more about Eastern Passport.

Willimantic’s small businesses. “This program not only supports local businesses,” she said, “but also helps students feel more connected to the place where they live, learn, and — hopefully — stay for years to come.”

CAMPUS BRIEFS

The land on which we stand Eastern adopts land acknowledgment statement By Michael Rouleau ’11

astern marked a historic milestone last Native American Heritage Month by holding its first land acknowledgment ceremony. The November event gathered representatives from four local tribal nations in recognition of the ancestral lands on which the University stands. During his opening remarks, President Karim Ismaili explained that the land acknowledgment statement was formally adopted by the University Senate and will be read at the beginning of major campus events. Looking forward, he pledged a strong, continued engagement with the region’s Indigenous tribes. “A land acknowledgment helps us understand the deep and enduring relationships Indigenous nations maintain with their homelands,” said Ismaili. “It brings attention to histories that have too often been overlooked and invites us to reflect on the commitments we should uphold as a university — grounded in learning, respect, and inclusion.” Beth Regan ’79 M’89, chairwoman and justice of the Mohegan Tribal Council of Elders and a proud Eastern alumna, delivered the ceremony’s keynote address. Reflecting on the land her people have stewarded for hundreds of generations, Regan said, “The land is a gift ... we are connected to the land. We are the land. We cannot be separated. This is why dispossession and removal were so traumatic for our people.” The ceremony also featured remarks from other Connecticut tribal representatives, including alumna Natasha Gambrell ’15 of the Eastern Pequot Tribal Nation, Michael Thomas of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, and Cassandra Sherman Keola of the Golden Hill Paugusset Tribe. “When you walk outside, remember that the land carries the stories of those who came before,” said Keola. “Indigenous people are everywhere. Seek us out, acknowledge us, and listen.”

EASTERN CONNECTICUT STATE UNIVERSITY LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT We respectfully acknowledge that the land on which Eastern Connecticut State University stands, and the broader land now known as the State of Connecticut, is the ancestral territory of the Eastern Pequot Tribal Nation, Golden Hill Paugussett Tribe, Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, Mohegan Tribe, Nipmuc Tribe, and Schaghticoke Tribe, who have stewarded this land throughout the generations with great care. We honor their resilience, cultural heritage, and enduring presence. As Connecticut’s public liberal arts university, we are committed to fostering greater awareness of Indigenous histories and contemporary experiences, and to building relationships grounded in respect, reciprocity, and responsibility.

"The land is a gift ... we are connected to the land." – Beth Regan EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 7

CAMPUS BRIEFS

The Evidence the Liberal Arts Needs Eastern hosts scholar Richard Detweiler By Savannah Striano ’26

Is the goal of a liberal arts education to prepare students for their first job, or to cultivate them into thoughtful, productive citizens in the long term? his question is central to the work of renowned scholar and higher education leader Richard Detweiler, president emeritus of Hartwick College and the Great Lakes Colleges Association, and author of The Evidence Liberal Arts Needs: Lives of Consequence, Inquiry, and Accomplishment. During a campus presentation in spring 2026, Detweiler acknowledged they are naturally occurring at institutions that the liberal arts have existed for centulike Eastern, where smaller classes and a ries, though their value in modern times close-knit community more easily supis often questioned in a world focused on port deeper connections. “earning a maximum salary as quickly as Contrary to popular misconception, possible,” he said. Detweiler stressed that the liberal arts Detweiler argues that the long-term are not meant solely for wealthy private value of a liberal arts education is shaped institutions. Rather than being an elite by two key elements, which ultimately luxury, he said the liberal arts can be most nurture meaningful and impactful lives: transformative for students coming from academic breadth and the “context of lower-income backgrounds and fewer education.” resources, reinforcing the importance of Academic breadth requires students to Eastern’s “public” liberal arts mission. take courses outside their major. “There Detweiler also emphasized that there are things you need to learn before you is nothing political about the “liberal” specialize,” said Detweiler, adding that a liberal arts education “Regardless of the work or field you is broad by design. “Regardless of the pursue, you should be educated broadly work or field you across the span of human knowledge.” pursue, you should be educated broadly arts. Instead of focusing on the label, he across the span of human knowledge.” said, “We should focus on the practices Detweiler describes the “context of that create a liberal arts experience,” i.e., education” as the student’s relationships the breadth and context. and experiences outside the classroom. Detweiler highlighted national re“Student engagement extends beyond search that shows that today’s college stuacademics,” he said, noting that interacdents prioritize a meaningful life over pertions with professors during office hours, sonal gain. “Money and personal benefits mentorship from staff, and connections are way down on the list,” he said. “What with peers all help to shape this broader they’re looking for is a life that allows educational experience. them to contribute to their community While students at large universities and live fully.” can seek out these interactions for themConversations with Eastern students selves — essentially recreating the liberal aligned with this trend. While securing arts experience — Detweiler noted that 8 • Fall 2026 • EASTERN

a job is important, Detweiler found that students aspire to be engaged, contributing citizens and to lead lives filled with purpose and cultural involvement. “My optimism comes from the fact that this rising generation will help bring positive change to our society.”

“I’ve gotten to know many institutions — liberal arts and not, domestic and abroad — throughout my career and as a result of writing this book. ... And I actually have never been to a college or university where the deep values associated with educating people who want to live lives that make a difference are so powerfully reflected [as they are at Eastern]. It is truly magical.” – Richard Detweiler

CAMPUS BRIEFS

Small Business Resource Center to move downtown By Michael Rouleau ’11

erving as an incubator for local entrepreneurs and a laboratory for business students, Eastern will officially relocate its Small Business Resource Center (SBRC) to Beckert Hall. At the corner of Valley Street and High Street, behind Shafer Hall, the historic brick building sits just a block away from Willimantic’s business district. “Beckert Hall is the ideal location for the SBRC given its proximity to downtown,” said Niti Pandey, dean of the School of Education and Professional Studies. “It will serve as a hub for providing resources and driving Windham Mayor Tom DeVivo, Liberty Bank Vice President of Community Development engagement with our community partners, Pamela Days-Luketich, Dean Niti Pandey, President Karim Ismaili, Liberty Bank Vice local businesses, and the town.” President of Community Development Glenn Davis, and Windham Town Manager Rob Launched through a partnership with Zarnetske display the SBRC donation from the Liberty Bank Foundation. Eastern, Liberty Bank, and the Town of WindBeckert Hall ham, the center contributes to the economic vitality of the Windham area by providing resources and education to entrepreneurs. Leveraging the talents of Eastern students, faculty, and partner organizations, the SBRC supports and actively engages with local businesses. The SBRC at Beckert Hall will also host to a Small Business Academy, the University’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, and offices for the Northeast Chamber of Commerce and Willimantic Renaissance, Inc.

‘A globe of life’ Research yields surprising discoveries about scorpion venom trio of biologists from Eastern has made a discovery that challenges long-held assumptions about one of nature’s most feared substances. Professors Barbara Murdoch and Matthew Graham, along with recent graduate Abby Heidorn ’26, have published research identifying microbial communities living in scorpion venom — a substance long believed to be sterile. Their findings could have implications for the global fight against antibiotic resistance, a growing threat in which bacteria evolve in ways that allow them to survive medicines designed to kill them. Murdoch and Graham’s study, “Microbiota Discovered in Scorpion Venom,” published in the research journal PLOS One in January 2026, was the first assessment of microbial diversity conducted in scorpion venom secretions. Heidorn took it a step further this past July as first-author of a paper

published in Frontiers in Arachnid Science. She and her mentors, Murdoch and Graham, used a novel sequencing technique to uncover a distinctive group of bacteria (Scorpion Group 1) previously found in only one other scorpion family. “Our studies refute the idea that scorpion venom is a sterile environment lacking bacteria,” said Murdoch. “They corroborate the discovery of microorganisms in the venom of other organisms, like spiders and snakes.” “What fascinates me most is the realization that every scorpion, of the nearly 3,000 species worldwide, carries a tiny globe of life in its tail,” said Graham. “These findings completely change how we think about scorpion venom. It’s not

By Kyle Berson ’26

a sterile substance, but a living, dynamic system shaped by ecology, geography, and evolutionary processes.” The researchers noted that scorpion stings pose a significant global health concern and are often complicated by infection. The discovery of bacteria thriving in the harsh environment of scorpion venom could open the door to new antibiotic discoveries. EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 9

10 • Fall 2026 • EASTERN

early 1,000 Eastern students earned undergraduate and graduate degrees during the 2025-26 academic year, culminating in two commencement ceremonies on May 16 at PeoplesBank Arena in Hartford. Representing the University’s School of Arts and Sciences, School of Education and Professional Studies, and Graduate Division, the Class of 2026 included firstgeneration college students, seasoned professionals pursuing advanced degrees, and graduates from a wide range of backgrounds. Commencement speakers included honorary degree recipients Beth Regan ’79 M’89, justice and chairwoman of the Mohegan Tribal Council of Elders, and local philanthropists David and Marilyn Foster. Graduates also heard from World Bank Executive Director Harold Tavares, recipient of Eastern’s second annual Distinguished Public Service Award.

EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 11

By Thomas J. Balcerski, professor of history

f there was an epicenter of the American Revolution in Connecticut, it may well have been eastern Connecticut. In the years before and during the Revolutionary War, the region produced numerous revolutionaries and soldiers who helped turn colonial resistance into a fight for independence. As the United States marks the 250th anniversary of its founding in 1776, it is fitting to revisit eastern Connecticut’s many contributions to the American Revolution. During the 1760s and early 1770s, eastern Connecticut and Windham County were a hotbed of patriotism and radical Sons of Liberty activity. When war began in 1775, the region was among the first to send hundreds of fighting men to the aid of General George Washington. Two of Connecticut’s four signers of the Declaration of Independence, Samuel Huntington and William Williams, and First Continental Congress delegate Eliphalet Dyer all had direct ties to Windham — the historic town that today encompasses Willimantic. Connecticut’s Revolutionary governor, Jonathan Trumbull, also came from Windham County. In total, eastern Connecticut claims four Founding Fathers whose profound contributions helped shape the birth of the United States of America, and whose legacies are still honored across the region today.

Revolutionary Windham A minor controversy erupted in July 1774, Windham was a major Revolutionary War muster when Francis Green, a prominent Boston point for Connecticut troops and a supply depot for the Loyalist (a colonist who remained loyal to army. Through a commissary, Windham collected food England), arrived at a tavern in Windham and equipment across Windham County to support on a business trip. Loyalists were generally Washington’s Continental Army. The town was also home to disapproved of in the a powder manufactory that produced Patriot town, and were and distributed an impressive 66,074 “One thing I have done which at times ousted or pounds of gunpowder between May the British will never pardon; made to recant pro21, 1776, and Nov. 8, 1783. The Willimantic Town Clerk’s I have signed the Declaration of Britain statements. When Green’s Office presently maintains meeting Independence; I shall be hung.” presence became minutes pre-dating the Revolution. known, Windham Held primarily at today’s First citizens forced him Congregational Church in historic to leave by threat Windham, meeting records as early as of a cannon positioned in front of 1768 reveal that the citizens of Windham were committed the building. Green’s problems to the Patriot cause, voting to prohibit “British and foreign continued after he superfluities.”

William Williams

12 • Fall 2026 • EASTERN

A map off the colonyy off Connecticut, 1766, draawn awn before the creation off Tolland County County.

fled fle d too nearby nea earb rbyy Nor orwi wich cch h, whe h re he was onc ncee moree thr hrea e teene ea ned d and made too lea eave ve the colony. y. Byy the fol ollo lowi w ngg yea wi ear, r the tow own ow n had d organized a mil i itia (co (c con onsisting i g off the famou us “Minutemen”) to defend Windham against British invasioon. Although the fightingg never came directlyy to Windham,, its citizens still participated in n the he wider conflict.

In June 1774, 91>1 9;:@4? .12;>1 ŋ34@5:3 .>;71 ;A@ -@ 1D5:3@;: -:0 ;:/;>0 @41 )5:04-9 @;C: /81>7 >1/;>010 -: 1D@>1918E -35@-@10 ?@-@1 ;2 -Ŋ-5>? E @45? @591 ;?@;: C-? /8;?10 -:0 ;//A<510 .E >5@5?4 @>;;<? &41 /5@5F1:? ;2 )5:04-9 C1>1 -//;>05:38E I@1D@ @>-:?/>5.10 verbatim): “ … impressed with a deep sense of the present alarming aspects of Divine Providence over the British Colonys in North America arising from the present depressed situation of the capitall of a neighbouring providence having their harbour & port blocked up by ships of warr in hostile array to the great terror of the people totally and actually restricting all commerce by sea into or from said port thereby forceably preventing the due performance of all private maritime contracts rendering useless their whole navigation stores & warfs built and erected at a vast expence of the inhabitants. A principle which threatens ruin & destruction both to the liberty & property of every subject throughout the whole British Empire.”

First Congregational Chu C rch off Windham, where town meetings were held during the Revolutionaryy era — located at 4 Win W ndham Centerr Road, Windham.

Windham at War Th war effo The ff rt rts ts of 17766 had d so eng ngrossed the attention n off Windham’s citizens th hat internaa l affairs recei eive ei ved ve d little atte at tent te ntio nt ion io n — no tow own n me meet etin et ings in gs wer eree hel eld d tha hat year until the annual election meettin ingg in Dec e ember. Records werre sim imilarly scarce acr cros cr oss neighboringg tow os owns ns, suc ns uch tha uch hatt his i to tori rian ans don o ’t’ full fu llyy k now ll w how w Connecticut’s townss and villages res e ponded es d to the news off the Declaration off In ndependence. Duringg a town meetingg held in 17880 — as the Continental Army Ar myy continued to fight for American sovereigntyy against th he British i rejection off the Declarration off Independence — Windham voted to secure fin nancial support for the enlistment off 1,000 “able-bodied effective” men, with each soldier receivingg £20 for servin ngg a six-month term. In addition, silver bounties off £12 — with w more in subsequent years — were offered to each man wh ho agreed to a three-year enlistment, thus sustainingg the requ uired quotas through the entiretyy off the war. To fund the soldiers, Windham m agreed to a taxx of “sixpence on the pound” on all resid dents and real estate. The tax, which had been imposed byy th he General Assemblyy in Hartford, was paid in provisions likee “beef, pork, and flour.”

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EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 13

Four Founding Fathers Who Called Eastern Connecticut Home Eliphalet p Dyer y

Eliphalet Dyer. Etching by Albert Rosenthal, ca. 1886.

In his prime, Eliphalet Dyer was the most influential leader off the Connecticut Colony. Born in Windham in 1721, he rose to become the town’s leadingg citizen and was regularlyy elected the moderator off the Windham town meeting. With a militaryy background and extensive landholdings, Dyer was also Windham County’s largest slaveholder, possessingg approximatelyy 800 acres and enslavingg eight African Americans byy the year 1774. He was a principal force behind the Susquehannaa Company, which aimed to acquire and settle land in present-dayy Pennsylvania. Elected as the colony’s first delegate to the Continental Congress, he missed out on signingg the Declaration of Independence. However, he returned regularlyy to represent Connecticut in Philadelphia, at one point becoming the state’s sole delegate. His strenuous efforts on behalff off the Patriot cause markk him as a forgotten Founding Father off the United States. Although he is less widelyy remembered, Dyer’s extensive political contributions remain a significant component off Windham’s Revolutionaryy history. His house still stands in Windham and is privatelyy owned.

William Williams

William Williams. Lithograph by Ole Erikson, ca. 1876.

Born in Lebanon in 1731, William Williams attended Harvard and was elected a representative to the Connecticut General Assemblyy at age 25. He married Maryy Trumbull, the second daughter off Governor Jonathan Trumbull, and became a leadingg Whigg (or Patriot) until his death in 1811. Williams was thus given the honor off receivingg the very first printed copyy off the Declaration off Independence to reach Connecticut. A speaker off the General Assemblyy and a member off the Town Council off Safetyy off Lebanon, Williams was an ardent patriot who purportedlyy participated in one off the greatest exchanges off the entire war. Should the colonies not be successful in the war, he stated, “One thingg I have done which the British will never pardon; I have signed the Declaration off Independence; I shall be hung.” A fellow w Town Council off Safetyy member, Benjamin Huntington, observed that he had never committed his name to anyy paper or document criticizingg the British government and thus was not in danger off beingg hanged. In response, Williams stood up and declared scornfully, “Then, sir, you deserve to be hanged for not doingg your duty.” Through his personal efforts, Williams secured more than 1,000 blankets from a total population off slightlyy less than 4,000, and inspired citizens to take the weights out off their clocks to supplyy lead for bullets.

Samuel Huntington g

Samuel Huntington. Oil painting by Charles Wilson Peale, ca. 1783.

Another Connecticut signer off the Declaration off Independence has a Windham connection. Born in 1731, Samuel Huntington’s birthplace is in today’s neighboringg Scotland (prior to the 1800s, this areaa was part off Windham). He later started a law w practice in Norwich, where he lived the remainder of his life. Huntington began his public life in 1765, when the Stamp Act was beingg widelyy discussed. He was a justice off the peace for New w London County, a judge off the superior court, served on manyy committees during the Revolution, and entered the Continental Congress in Januaryy 1776. He was unanimouslyy elected president off the Congress in 1779, continuingg as the presidingg officer until ill health forced him to resign in 1781. He returned home and resumed his posts as a state judge and on the Council off Connecticut. He was elected governor in 1786 and Huntington Homestead, located at 36 Huntington Road, Scotland. Todayy the house is operated as a museum byy the Huntington Homestead Museum and reelected annuallyy until his death in 1796. Familyy Center.

Jonathan Trumbull

Jonathan Trumbull, Sr. Oil on wood by John Trumbull, ca. 1793.

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Governor Jonathan Trumbull was born in Lebanon. A neighbor and father-in-law w off William Williams, “Brother Jonathan” was Washington’s closest allyy amongg the colonial governors — and the onlyy colonial governor to serve the Patriot cause in the war itself. His steadfast commitment to supplyingg the Continental Armyy earned Connecticut the moniker off the “Provisions State.” Trumbull became governor off Connecticut in 1769, servingg until the year before his death in 1784. Because off Trumbull’s prominence duringg the war, Lebanon — and thus Windham Countyy — became the center off Connecticut’s war effort.

Jonathan Trumbull House is located at 169 West Town Street, Lebanon. Todayy the house is operated as a museum byy the Connecticut Daughters off the American Revolution.

The Man Behind Occum Hall

Samson Occom, a pillar of Mohegan history By Noel Teter ’24

he name “Occum” is familiar to generations of Eastern alumni. Since the 1980s, the monolithic Occum Hall has been a cornerstone of the University’s north campus. What most people don’t know, however, is the historic figure the residence hall is named after: Samson Occom, a prominent 18th-century Mohegan tribal leader, author, and minister from eastern Connecticut. Born and raised in a wigwam on Mohegan land outside New London, Occom (1723-92) dedicated his life to advocating for Indigenous sovereignty at a time of expanding colonial influence. A champion of education, Occom was also committed to helping his people read and write in the English language, as well as to following the Christian faith.

A champion of education Occom pursued his education in present-day Columbia, CT, under the instruction of Windham minister Eleazar Wheelock (1711-79). Wheelock later founded the Moor’s Indian Charity School in 1754, a school dedicated to teaching Christianity to Indigenous children. According to a 1983 biography by former Eastern librarian Kenneth Moorhead, Occom was a schoolteacher and minister on Long Island, NY, before joining Wheelock’s mission in 1761 as a fundraiser and recruiter for the school. Occom traveled to Great Britain in 1766 to solicit funds, returning home two years later with more than £11,000 — the largest sum collected for any colonial school at the time. EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 15

Occom eventually moved to upstate New York and founded the Brothertown Indian Nation in 1785 to create a home for Native Americans who had been displaced by colonial expansion. This settlement welcomed people from many tribes, including the Montauk, Narragansett, Mohegan, Pequot, Tunxis, and Niantic. Eastern alumna Beth Regan ’79 M’89, chairwoman and justice of the Mohegan Tribal Council of Elders, commented on Occom’s enduring legacy: “We as Mohegans have always honored Occom ... for his writing talents, his herbal medicines, his commitment to education, and his elegant ability to walk from the wigwam of his birth to the global stage in support of his dream of an Indian school. “He saw firsthand how settler colonists could take advantage of the Indian should they not learn — should they not get an education — especially as it came to the ‘sale’ of their land.”

Bestowing Occom’s legacy upon Eastern

A portrait of Samson Occom, painted by Douglas Henry in 1997.

“We as Mohegans have always honored Occom … for his elegant ability to walk from the wigwam of his birth to the global stage in support of his dream of an Indian school.” Beth Regan ’79 M’89 According to the biography, he also returned home to betrayal. Wheelock had promised to care for Occom’s family during his absence. Instead, Occom returned to Connecticut and found his family destitute. Furthermore, Wheelock diverted the funds Occom raised to establish a different school in New Hampshire that would later become Dartmouth College. This institution moved away from the original mission of educating Native American youth, contradicting the promises made to Occom.

Disillusionment and renewal During the following years, Occom witnessed the American Revolution, which only strengthened his desire to fight for his Indigenous people and their rights to property and education. He remarked that Native American populations showed more Christianity than either side fighting in the war, according to the 1983 biography.

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Occum Hall arose from a housing shortage at Eastern during the 1970s and ’80s. As quoted in the Willimantic Chronicle, thenEastern President Charles R. Webb said, “Occum Hall, with its 245 beds, has helped immensely to relieve overcrowding in Eastern’s dormitories.” The hall’s dedication ceremony on Sept. 28, 1984, boasted a large Native American contingent as reported by the Chronicle. In a 1983 resolution by the Connecticut State University system, Executive Director James A. Frost cited Occom’s prominence as a historic figure in eastern Connecticut, noting his unyielding commitment to helping tribes in the New England region “maintain independence and preserve their cultures” as the impetus for naming the hall. Regan praised Eastern for honoring Occom not only through his eponymous building but also through a deeper commitment to fulfilling his mission. “He would be very happy that women are being educated here, as that was the way of our people,” she said, noting the Indigenous women who were educated at the former Moor’s Indian Charity School in Columbia. “Dozens of Mohegan educators, including yours truly, have since attended Eastern Connecticut State University, and they have created great legacies for educators and education.”

Occum or Occom? While the Eastern residence hall features the phonetic and alternative spelling, “Occum,” historical archives prefer the spelling used by the man himself: Occom.

and your job hunt H

ow new HR technologies impact the recruitment process

Savannah Striano ’25 was excited for her first interview for a full-time job after graduation. To her surprise, when she logged in to the virtual interview, she wasn’t greeted by a person, but by a series of fast-moving minigames. One was a matching game, another was a memory game, and the third asked her to express her emotional response to different photographs. Then she was video recorded while answering basic interview questions. “It felt nerve-wracking,” she said. “I didn’t know where my answers were going or who was seeing them. … School prepared me with interpersonal skills for interviews with humans, not robots.” Striano did not advance in the interview process. Baffled by the experience, she looked into the platform that hosted the interview, Hirevue, and learned that the platform uses AI to assess responses and score applicants.

By Kyle Berson ’26

“Did I choose the wrong emotion during that minigame?” she thought, feeling that she would have performed better had she been interacting with a live person rather than a computer program.

The Changing Hiring Landscape As hiring practices change with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), an increasing number of employers are adopting new methods to perform a variety of human resources (HR) tasks, from screening applications to conducting interviews. The implementation of these new technologies has prompted rapid change in the modern job search. With the U.S. Census Bureau and Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting an unemployment rate of 5.6% for recent college graduates (ages 22-27) as of March 2026 — slightly higher than the rate for all workers (4.2%) — it’s important to understand how AI is used in the recruitment process and how job applicants can stand out in this new environment. EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 17

In 2025, approximately 43% of employers used AI in HR-related capacities, an increase from 26% in 2024, according to the Society for Human Resource Management’s (SHRM) “Talent Trends Report.” A survey within the report revealed that 60% of respondents, consisting of more than 2,300 HR professionals in diverse industries, expressed optimism for AI rollouts at their organizations. The survey also found that about 24% of respondents were concerned that AI would replace jobs at their organizations. Linda Ferraro, a business administration lecturer at Eastern, explained that HR is one of the leading fields for the workplace implementation of AI tools. “HR professionals are leading the way in understanding how AI can help shape the overall culture of organizations,” she said. As job seekers grapple with this new reality, Ferraro says, “AI in HR helps create a space to focus more on critical thinking and relationships.” HR professionals utilize AI in several ways. In the recruitment process, the technology is being used to draft job descriptions, postings, and interview questions. In recent years, applicant tracking systems (ATS) have increasingly implemented AI into their workflows. These systems automate many aspects of the recruitment process for employers, such as screening applicants and their resumes, as well as tracking application statuses and communications. AI technology is also used in performance management, where AI tools are being used to comb through employee databases to draft performance evaluations, compile feedback, and help set goals. In onboarding and professional development processes, AI models are being used to draft and personalize training materials for individual learning preferences.

Professional Perspectives In the 2025-26 academic year, Eastern’s Department of Business Administration and SHRM hosted an interactive discussion titled “AI in Human Resources.” One of the event’s lead organizers, Ferraro said, “[AI] allows us to automate some of the repetitive tasks of the job and allows HR professionals to focus more on organizational culture and relationships.” After conducting in-person interviews, Ferraro explained that she feeds her notes into AI to organize them into specific themes, identify patterns, and generate insights she might not have otherwise considered. While this makes her more efficient at her job, she said, “It doesn’t eliminate the importance of the human.” Ferraro continued: “I would never give materials to a client without thoroughly assessing whether it was my voice, and that it kept the content I wanted. Using AI, I can more quickly get to the first step in what I ultimately deliver to my client.”

“You’re not going to lose your job to AI … you’re going to lose your job to someone who uses AI.” – Jensen Huang President and CEO, NVIDIA

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Emily Haythorn ’21, a talent partner with Liberty Mutual Insurance, uses AI as a “thought buddy” when analyzing large datasets for an organization with more than 6,000 employees. “Data analysis is a big piece of seeing how our organization is performing,” she said. “You can use AI to help take performance measures of how the business is doing and identify gaps, opportunities, and patterns to support being a high-performing culture.” Eric Martin ’08, executive director of Blue Pinnacle Solutions, employs AI to streamline communication. As a strategic HR consulting and services firm, Martin’s team uses AI to draft emails, schedule appointments, create PowerPoints, and summarize information that helps free time to brainstorm, problem-solve, and perform higher-level tasks. “The old-fashioned way would take hours,” he said. “Now you can do it in a few minutes.” Martin is also a founding member and innovation partner with the AI for HR Community, a resource hub and networking space for HR professionals to discuss their evolving field. “In early 2025, I didn’t know how to effectively use AI in my world,” he said. “But I did know it was going to have a huge impact on the work that I do.” Martin added that the AI for HR Community is “bringing HR professionals and leaders together to make sure that everybody has the tools, resources, and knowledge to use AI effectively in organizations.”

“The old-fashioned way would take hours. Now you can do it in a few minutes.” – Eric Martin Executive Director, Blue Pinnacle Solutions

AI Concerns for HR AI models are trained on large datasets, fueled by user input. Prompts, photos, spreadsheets, and other information are saved and used to generate its responses. Understandably, there is concern about data privacy and security when AI is used with sensitive information. “I’ve heard of several banks that aren’t using AI based on client confidentiality concerns,” said Tamela Higgins, vice president and

HR manager of Chelsea Groton Bank, who met with Eastern students last academic year. “Financial institutions are one of the most regulated industries in the United States. How are we going to use this technology to our betterment?” While AI can help businesses and organizations become more productive, Higgins warned of the consequences of over-reliance on AI in workflows. Algorithmic bias in a model’s training datasets can skew results and outputs or present misinformation in certain scenarios. “The world used to say, ‘garbage in, garbage out,’” she said. “That still applies today. … If you put garbage into AI, that’s what you’ll get out.” A report by Georgetown University’s Center for Security and Emerging Technology (CSET) titled “AI and the Future of Workforce Training” found that an AI-powered career navigation tool favored domestic, native English-speaking applicants over foreign applicants, whose education and work experience were often mislabeled by the tool. The CSET report also referenced a separate Stanford University study, which found a bias in AI writing detection tools. The tools falsely claimed 98% of essays written by nonnative English speakers were AI-generated, while EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 19

only 10% of essays by native English speakers were misidentified in the same way. Implementation of AI bots in the interviewing, onboarding, and offboarding processes has also exacerbated fears of losing the “human touch” to HR. At Blue Pinnacle Solutions, Martin believes the robotic aspect of HR will get worse before it gets better. “In HR, investments aren’t being made in people anymore,” he said, explaining that AI advancements are being prioritized over human talent. “I think this investment dynamic will shift in the coming year as organizations realize that blindly investing in AI is not a winning solution.” Another risk of generative AI is its potential to “hallucinate,” or generate a confident but false/misleading response. Haythorn of Liberty Mutual touched on how new technology isn’t always accurate. “I’ve had an instance where AI made up [a detail] in a contract because it wasn’t there,” she said. “It doesn’t come out and say, ‘I don’t have this,’ so it fills in the blanks with something else.”

Preparing for an AI-augmented job search Martin of Blue Pinnacle Solutions described changes to the recruitment process as a temporary “disruption period driven in large part by AI’s unknowns” and an urgency for companies to adopt the new technology. Martin stressed the importance of staying agile and adapting to new labor market trends. “If you’re a [firstyear student] in college right now, what you might need to learn is going to be different in three or four years than someone who’s currently a senior,” he said. “Leaders will say they want someone who knows AI. In many cases, they don’t know how to apply it. Having a basic understanding of what AI does [and can do] will make you much better off.” Martin also highlighted the utility of networking in today’s job market. “White-collar jobs are in short supply,” he said. “Seventy percent of all new roles in the professional space are being filled through referrals, not through the traditional application process.” “For a college student, your best bet is to network early,” Martin added. “Go on LinkedIn, find people already in the space, connect 20 • Fall 2026 • EASTERN

with them, and ask for somebody to be a mentor. The degree [alone] may not get you there, unfortunately, and those algorithms don’t make it easier.” Haythorn landed her job at Liberty Mutual through an internship she obtained in her sophomore year. Graduating when AI use was becoming more popular in the workplace, Haythorn stressed the importance of staying malleable. “The world is ever-changing,” she said. “It’s all about adaptability. What

do we have now? What are we going to have tomorrow, and how are we going to continue to build those skillsets?” To stay adaptable, job seekers must stay updated with current technological advancements and their practical applications to suit business goals. “Be curious and explore the technology in your own life,” said Lecturer Ferraro. “Whether that’s ChatGPT, Gemini, or any other model, utilize those tools yourself.”

Resume Tips for the AI Era Match the Job Description To stand out to both applicant tracking systems (ATS) and human recruiters, resumes should mirror the language used in job postings. Indeed’s “Career Guide” recommends removing irrelevant skills and experience to improve the chances of a resume making it to a recruiter.

Keep Formatting Simple An ATS-friendly resume should avoid images, tables, graphics, and other complex formatting. These elements can interfere with how screening software reads and analyzes applications.

Stay Flexible Not every employer relies on AI-driven screening tools, but resumes that are easy for both computers and humans to read can make a strong impression.

Still miss college life? 85%

15%

Yes!

No,, not att all

Still wear Eastern merch? 80%

20%

Definitely

Choose the same major again? 60%

Yes

AI will improve myy work?

35%

65%

Yes

In a drawer somewhere

Career change?

40% 40%

60%

I have

I have not

Follow passsionn or opportunityy? 51%

49%

Passion Opporrtun nity

Biggest poost-grad surprise? e??

29%

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Moore valua M alluuaable alu bble lee thhing thing hhiiin ing ng ng gaine gain gaaine ned from ccol olleeege ge?

77%

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60%

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Nott really Not

We asked alumni to reflect on their days at Eastern, their careers, and the world around them through a series of Instagram polls. Here’s what they had to say. EASTERN • Fall F ll 2026 • 21

rn alumni serve around t e t s a he wo E born y Ed Os B rld thro ugh Peace Corps

Since its inception on March Mar 1, 1961, in the weeks following John F. Kennedy’s inauguration, the Peace Corps has inspired 250,000 Americans to volunteerr theirr time and skills across 144 countries. This legacyy includes a dedicated group off Eastern alumni, faculty, and staff. We caught up with several off these volunteers to learn about theirr unique stories off service and adventure — journeys that deeplyy shaped theirr own lives while leaving a lasting impact on the global communities theyy served.

Catherine Hansen ’09 fter graduatingg with a degree in business administration, Catherine Hansen ’09 served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Morocco from 2013-15. The experience began with months of intensive language and cultural trainingg before beingg assigned to the village off Tameslouht. Beyond her primaryy role teachingg English at a local youth center, Hansen tookk advantage off the Peace Corps’ emphasis on community-led service byy organizingg a women’s fitness class, supportingg youth camps, leadingg environmental projects, and helpingg install the village’s first publicc trash cans. “Workingg with the women in myy village was particularly rewarding,” Hansen reflected. “Manyy had never had opportunities to participate in organized fitness activities, so I created a dancefocused aerobics class. What started as a small ideaa quicklyy grew into somethingg special. The classes became packed, and the women embraced the opportunityy not only to improve their health, but also to connect, laugh, and support one another. Watchingg their confidence grow w was one off the highlights of myy service.” Hansen also appreciated the cultural exchange of the Peace Corps experience.

22 • Fall 2026 • EASTERN

“I spent countless hours learning Darija, Morocco’s Arabic dialect, building relationships with my neighbors, and sharingg pieces off myy own American culture while learning from theirs. Lookingg back, some off the most meaningful lessons came not from the projects themselves, but from simplyy livingg alongside people whose values often challenged and expanded my own understanding of community. “One off myy greatest takeaways from Morocco was the incredible generosityy off its people. Despite beingg a developingg country, I rarely witnessed anyone goingg hungryy because sharingg was woven into everydayy life. Everyy Friday, without fail, myy neighbor would bring me a plate off couscous. This wasn’t considered extraordinary; it was simplyy what people did for one another. Meals were often shared from a single dish, with familyy and friends gathered together in a circle. There was a deep sense that the well-beingg off the community mattered as much as that off the individual. “Myy Peace Corps service changed me in ways I am still discoveringg today. It taught me humility, adaptability, patience, and the importance off genuine human connection. It showed me that while cultures mayy differ, people everywhere seekk manyy of

the same things: belonging, purpose, opportunity, and love. Iff given the chance, I would do it all over again.” Hansen recalls her time on the Eastern campus with pride and appreciation. “My time at Eastern played a foundational role in preparingg me for my career and shaping how I approach both work and life. Beyond the classroom, student life taught me how to navigate independence, build relationships, and take initiative. … Eastern didn’t just prepare me academically;

it helped me develop as a whole person. It gave me the confidence to step into unfamiliar environments, such as the Peace Corps and, later, myy professional career, with a willingness to learn, adapt, and engage meaningfullyy with people from all walks off life. In manyy ways, Eastern was the bridge between who I was and who I was becoming.”

“Looking back, some off the mostt meaningful lessons came nott from the projects themselves, butt from simplyy living alongside people whose values often challenged and expanded myy own understanding off community.” Catherine Hansen ’09

Stewart Brewster ’70 singg his Eastern education to good effect, Stewart Brewster ’70 built a highlyy successful 41-year career in the insurance industryy before retiringg in 2011. The Los Gatos, CA, resident wasn’t content to shoot golf, playy bridge, or tend his flower garden. He was readyy for a new adventure. Driven to lend a hand where needed, meet new w people, and travel the world, Brewster served in the Peace Corps from 2011-13. Located between the Blackk Seaa and the Caspian Sea, Armeniaa is the size off Maryland with a population approachingg three million people. Brewster’s assignment was in a small town in the mountains, onlyy 14 miles from the border off Azerbaijan, which shares a violent past with Armenia. Brewster’s mission was to help stabilize the countryy so that Armenians could stayy in their homeland. This was no small taskk — Armeniaa was a member off the Soviet Bloc, electoral democracy remains an uncomfortable fit, and there is wide distrust off the government. Nonetheless, Brewster found the Armenian people to be proud, gregarious, and resourceful. Reporting on his experiences in 2012, Brewster wrote, “My Armenian neighbors are jacks-of-all-trades, skilled in makingg do. Little off value is discarded … value is stretched, whether it is twice soakingg teaa bags or again usingg sodaa bottles for raw w milkk deliveryy or bottling homemade wine.” Brewster kept himselff busyy with a range off projects, from workingg with teenagers learningg English to

formingg a communityy diabetes support group to helpingg plan a regional art festival. “This enrichingg life chapter has expanded my horizons, invigorated myy life, and renewed my spirit,” he said. “Throw w off ff caution, be courageous — dare to step off!” Brewster has fond memories off his time at Eastern — then called the Willimantic State Teachers College. “Dr. Clinton Ritchie, Professor David Roth, and Dr. Frances Willeyy were myy favorites — all stimulating, smart, and dedicated. In earlyy 1966, Dr. Ritchie (dean off men) asked me to take over runningg the Student Union staff ff and its activities, which I happilyy did until I graduated. Myy pool and ping-pongg skills greatlyy improved as I ‘worked’ manyy hours there.” Professionallyy speaking, Brewster recalls: “Myy economics trainingg at Eastern clearlyy opened doors for me. I was lucky to have had manyy job offers. An insurance companyy recruiter interviewed me on campus and offered me a job in Boston before I graduated.” Over the followingg four decades of his career in insurance, Brewster happilyy worked for three companies across 11 locations.

“This enriching life chapterr has expanded myy horizons, invigorated myy life, and renewed myy spirit. Throw w off ff caution, be courageous — dare to step off!” Stewart Brewster ’70 EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 23

Lily Egan ’15 y Egan’s ’15 motivation to join oin the Peace Corps oin C began an as an Eastern student, followingg eye-o eyye-openingg experiences ex with ith the Center for Communityy Engagement and as a member em mb off the student organization People Helpingg People. ple “I felt inspired to venture out off Connecticut ne aafteer meeting m people from around the world in Willimantic, an where I waas as exp exposed d to different languages, food, and lots off da dancing!” she said. “I felt fl a sense off belongingg and pride in usingg skills from class to workk with wiith communityy members and to help those os in need, especially youth.” After not beingg accepted into thee Peace Corps fresh out off college, Egan gained more experience ri as an AmeriCorps volunteer in Bend, OR, and then as an English teacher in Spain. Her second Peace Corps application pp landed her an assignment in Cambodiaa in 2019, 9 where she worked to be an English teacher and trainer. Th The experience was life changing. “Peace Corps volunteers learn to adapt, appreciate the good and the challengingg lessons off dailyy life, and an workk hard to assimilate. I would return in a heartbeat to hear h the bustling off the tuk-tuks, the Khmer language caressing ngg me m like a warm hug, the vibrant rice paddies that stretch out to the th horizon, the Yellow-bellied Priniaa outside myy window, and the snap off fresh garlic in myy host mother’s wok. “I made lifelongg relationships with myy host family, Cambodian counterparts, Peace Corps staff, and fellow volunteers. I felt comfortable being uncomfortable. I learned Khmer fluentlyy and was accepted into the local culture. Nom banh chok quickly became my favorite noodle dish, I practiced the Cambodian dance called ‘Aspara,’ and I learned about Cambodia’s painful history byy listeningg to survivors and visitingg museums in the capital, Phnom Penh. “I learned so much from myy communityy — like how

24 • Fall 2026 • EASTERN

to wash myy clothes byy hand and navigate the busy busy streets — and I believe theyy learned arn frrom from m me too, t whether it was a new w card rd game g or the English ish llanguage.”” Eg who Egan, w now w works as a communications offi officerr at F Ford dham m University Un it y’s y’s Institute of International ati Human nitarrian Aff ffairs, cred edits Eaasterrn for preparing herr to seize opportunities poortun nitie ass theyy arise. “I took advantage a of everything included ncl in my tuition. I joined several evve clubs, s used mental health and he health services, vi attended midnight pancake dinners, and participated in careerr and networking events. Beyond attending every class, I traveled led around the United States, joined ne Leadership Greater Hartford, fo found jobs, attended games, and, most importantly, made lifelong connections.”

“I learned learne so much from my communityy — like how w to wash myy clothes byy hand and navigate the busyy streets — and I believe theyy learned from me too, whether itt was a new w card game orr the English language.” Lily Egan ’15

Joe Garzone ’15

oe Garzone ’15 graduated with a degree in history and social three rounds of coffee that get sciences with plans to become a high school teacher. That progressively weaker. The whole was before serving in the Peace Corps from 2017-19 in the Tigray process takes about an hour region of Ethiopia. and usually includes snacks and “I thought the Peace Corps would be a good way to gain teaching conversation. To this day, it’s the experience since I was considering a career as a history teacher. I best coffee I’ve ever had.” didn’t have a preference for where to serve. Ethiopia chose me, and He added: “More than anything, I went without hesitation. I appreciated the emphasis on community. I remember seeing “My primary responsibility was teaching grade 11 English, friends walking on the opposite side of the road and simply waving although classroom teaching only took up a small portion of my as I continued on my way. Later, they asked why I hadn’t crossed the day. Like many volunteers, I spent a lot of time working on other street to stop and talk. To them, that was the natural thing to do. projects, helping teachers improve their English skills, supporting It wasn’t unusual to be heading somewhere and end up spending the school’s library and computer lab, and running after-school half an hour having coffee with someone you ran into along the programs.” way, thus leaving you late for a meeting. People Garzone’s favorite project was working on the made time for one another. Relationships were “More than anything, school garden, which grew food for the teachers often more important than schedules.” and helped raise money for the school. Garzone now works for the State Department I appreciated the emphasis “One of and is currently stationed in Shanghai, China. on community. … People the goals of “The experience ultimately influenced my Peace Corps decision to join the Foreign Service. Peace made time for one another. Ethiopia was to Corps taught me adaptability, cross-cultural Relationships were encourage the communication, and how to be comfortable use of orangeoutside my comfort zone. These are lessons I often more important fleshed sweet still use every day. I stay in touch with friends than schedules.” potatoes, which from my host are droughtvillage, and Joe Garzone ’15 resistant and despite the high in Vitamin cha llenges A. We introduced them to the the region has faced in recent garden, and they became very years, I hope to return someday popular. Years later, I still receive and see them again.” photos when they’re harvested. Out of everything I worked on during my service, that’s probably the project with the most visible legacy, and it’s nice knowing it’s still around given [the Peace Corps’] objective of sustainable human development.” Garzone also fondly remembers coffee ceremonies. “Coffee in Ethiopian villages isn’t something you grab on the way to work. Someone roasts the beans, grinds them, and brews the coffee in a clay pot. The same grounds are used three times, creating

EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 25

he first game is still months away, but Eastern Connecticut State University’s women’s flag football program is already taking shape. There is a coach. There is a roster of student-athletes. There is a field — among the first in the country dedicated to the rising NCAA sport. Over the summer of 2026, Eastern added 79,550 square feet of synthetic playing surface to the Mansfield Athletic Outdoor Complex. Furnished with new bleachers and a scoreboard, the turf field runs 80 yards long and 40 yards wide. Eastern’s new athletics logos adorn the midfield and end zones, with their sleek design pointing toward a new era for the Warriors. In spring 2027, the field will be home to Eastern’s first women’s flag football team and the University’s 21st varsity sport (12th for women), as well as the first in the Little East Conference.

A pivotal moment The Warriors’ arrival comes at a pivotal moment for the sport. In January 2026, the NCAA added flag football to its Emerging Sports for Women program, creating a formal pathway toward a national championship status as early as 2028. Heading into the 2026-27 athletic year, nearly 100 colleges and universities across the country are now fielding varsity teams. The sport is even slated to make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles. For President Karim Ismaili, the new field and program are investments in both Eastern’s students and its future. “Our student-athletes deserve the very best, and this field reflects Eastern’s commitment to giving them the opportunities and resources to thrive,” said President Karim Ismaili of Eastern’s investment in its newest athletics program. “I can’t wait to see what these remarkable, trailblazing women accomplish on the field, in the classroom, and throughout the Eastern community. They are building something here that future Warriors will be proud to follow.” For some of the Warriors preparing for this first season, the opportunity represents something they have wanted for years. Sophomore health sciences major Emelia Maria-Babcock grew up surrounded by football in her hometown of Everett, MA. “I came from a football town. All my cousins played football,” she said. “I was always kind

26 • Fall 2026 • EASTERN

of jealous because I could never play, and now I’m really excited that I get the chance to.” Others found their way to flag football after first playing the tackle version of the game. Savannah Wright, a first-year health sciences major from Coventry, played tackle football for six years, including four at the high school level. “I’m excited for the opportunity to continue playing football at the college level,” she said. Lauren Ledger, a first-year health sciences major from South Windsor, played tailback and outside linebacker on her high school’s boys’ team. “It’s my favorite thing in the world. … I’m really excited about the season and meeting new people.” The new team is led by Head Coach Andy Crane, whose dynamic career spans two decades coaching collegiate golf, basketball, and baseball. A lifelong football fan, Crane played professional arena football and spent time on the field and in the front office with the NFL’s New York Jets. “I love the game of football,” he said. “I’ve played it since I was eight years old.” After his own playing career ended, Crane thought his days in football might be behind him. “Flag football lit that spark and fire again for me,” he said. “I’m lucky that I get to get up every morning and all I get to do is football.” Now his task is to build a program from the ground up. “We have been working really hard,” said Crane of the recruitment efforts. “We have some very talented football players that are looking to buy into what we are building here at Eastern, and that’s exciting.” Over the past year, Crane has attended flag football showcases and events hosted by NFL organizations that are helping to develop women’s flag football, including the Chicago Bears, Philadelphia Eagles, New York Jets, Carolina Panthers, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Crane has witnessed the sport’s explosive growth firsthand. At the 2026 Youth Flag Football World Championships in Orlando, FL, more than 6,000 players competed over the course of a single week — and some of them are now part of Eastern’s newest team. “Women’s flag football is becoming a world event and a world game,” said Crane of his aspirations to recruit far and wide. That reach is already apparent on Eastern’s roster.

Eastern’s first women’s flag football team is ready to make history By Ryan Quigley and Savannah Striano ’25

Building a roster The Warriors have recruited players from Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey, and welcomed transfers from as far away as South Carolina and the Midwest. The majority of the inaugural roster is composed of first-year students, but many of the athletes bring years of high school and travel flag football experience with them. Some arrive at Eastern as state champions or recipients of player-of-the-year honors. “Even though we’re a very young team, we’ll be a very dangerous team in year one,” said Crane. The roster also reflects just how many different ways young women are discovering the sport. First-year nursing major Jacalyn Zampieron from Ronkonkoma, NY, never planned to become a football player. She was training for volleyball at her high school when a football coach encouraged her to try flag football. Four years later, she is preparing to play at Eastern. “It was the best decision I ever made,” Zampieron said. “I’m super excited to be here, meet these girls, and win.” Chanel Grant, a first-year social work major from Springfield, MA, tried flag football out of curiosity. “The sport taught me a lot about myself, kept me in shape, and helped my mental health,” she said. “It’s a great opportunity to be one of the first sanctioned teams, and it’s the start of a new journey.” Nalina Charles, a first-year secondary education major from Albany, NY, has played flag football since her sophomore year of high school. For her, one of the sport’s biggest attractions is the way individual personalities come together around a shared goal. “I love being able to work with a team, with new people, with different people, and bring all our personalities together to become one big family,” Charles said. For Eastern, the launch comes at a moment when opportunities for women to play football are expanding dramatically. What for decades was often limited to recreational games, club teams, or isolated high school programs is developing into a true collegiate pathway — one Eastern intends to help lead. Coach Crane sees the University’s investment in the team’s new turf field as evidence of its commitment to women’s flag football. “Recruits who come to play here know we are all in, 100 percent.” For the inaugural Warriors, however, the field represents more than new turf and fresh lines. They are the first They will play the first game, score the first touchdown, and earn the first victory. They will establish traditions future teams inherit. Years from now, every player who joins Eastern women’s flag football will be joining something this group helped create. Crane understands the significance of that opportunity. His message to his players is simple: “One team, one goal. Play for the person next to you.” And when it comes to building a program from nothing, he knows there are no do-overs. “You’ve only got one shot at starting it for the first time,” Crane said. For Eastern’s newest Warriors, their field is ready. Soon, it will be their time to take it.

FLAG FOOTBALL

“Even though we’re a very young team, we’ll be a very dangerous team in year one.” – Coach Crane

Where P l ay Meets Purpose 20 years of the Child and Family Development Resource Center By Savannah Striano ’25

One of the CFDRC’s earliest preschoolers takes to the swings (2007).

28 • Fall 2026 • EASTERN

“When children walk through these doors, it’s a level playing field; every student has the same opportunities to learn and grow.” — Niloufar Rezai LANGUAGES SPOKEN Spanish, Mandarin Arabic, Nepalese Polish, Romanian Hindi, Russian Swahili, Cantonese ASL, Serbian, Bengali

$42K

Median Household Income

300

Spanish, Mandarin Arabic, Nepalesewalks into the hen a group of toddlers Polish, Romanian playroom atHindi, the Russian Margaret S. Wilson Child andSwahili, FamilyCantonese Development Resource Center (CFDRC), they seem like typical ASL, Serbian, Bengali

oolers Over Decades

9,600 Volunteer/Internship Observation Hours

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NTHS

450

Education Majors Trained

73%

of t he C FDRC

LANGUAGES SPOKEN

Underserved tor Families irec

i, d Niloufar Reza

preschoolers — curious, noisy, and busy. But in the sandbox and dramatic-play corners, their make-believe worlds are helping them develop the crucial thinking, language, and problem-solving skills that form the foundation of early learning. For 20 years, the CFDRC has been more than just a typical preschool — it functions as an early learning center where children learn through play, a launchpad where future teachers learn best practices, and a $42K living laboratory where researchers capture Median insights that could change how educators Household understand early learning. Income The CFDRC has been a hidden gem within the Willimantic and Eastern Connecticut State University communities since its founding in 2006. Director Niloufar Rezai emphasized that the CFDRC’s impact is made possible through the School Readiness Grant, funded by the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood. Since 2008, the grant has allowed the center to serve children who might otherwise be unable to attend

9,600

A physical education major spots a child on the CFDRC’s new rock wall (2014).

preschool due to financial barriers. “This funding has been instrumental in creating inclusive classrooms where children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds learn alongside their more affluent peers,” she said. Rezai’s mission is to ensure diversity in every classroom at the CFDRC: “I want them to be diverse in terms of demographics, such as socioeconomics, language, and culture.” Research underscores the significance of this objective, she says, demonstrating that such environments foster stronger literacy and oral language development — key factors in narrowing achievement and opportunity gaps. “When children walk through these doors, it’s a level playing field; every student has the same opportunities to learn and grow.”

EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 29

“I continue to be amazed at how research findings and classroom practices at Eastern's centers have impacted other countries.” — Jeffrey Trawick-Smith

An early childhood education major works with children during the 2018 TIMPANI study.

CFDRC teacher Emily Grogan ’17

oga n

’17

Investigations At the CFDRC, children learn by exploring, experimenting, and discovering through play. “We believe strongly that the best vehicle for children to learn is through play … and knowing what questions to ask, when to ask, and when to just observe,” said Rezai. This philosophy comes to life through semester-long “investigations.” Last fall, for example, the focus was communication — explored through sensory and dramatic play, math, science, and writing to support both cognitive and socialemotional growth. Emily Grogan ’17 and Coreene Charette are two CFDRC teachers who guided preschoolers through the investigative process. Studies r yG in nonverbal Emil communication began with silent video clips, prompting children to interpret facial expressions, body language, and emotions. “This 30 • Fall 2026 • EASTERN

encouraged them to guess what was happening … and how the people were feeling,” said Grogan. The inquiry soon expanded into play. Using recycled materials, children built a classroom “post office” where they sent mail, measured envelopes, and wrote letters to their stuffed animals and classmates. The experience extended beyond the classroom with a visit to Eastern’s mailroom, where children observed real-world tools like scanners, sorting bins, and signage. Role-playing as postal workers and customers helped the young students practice both verbal and written communication skills. Children also explored communication through sign language, braille, and assistive speech devices. Later, the focus shifted to expression through puppetry, movement, music, and art. The semester concluded with a hands-on introduction to tools such as typewriters, telephones, and Morse code. International Impact Sudha Swaminathan, professor and director of the Center for Early Childhood

Sudha Swaminathan, director of the CECE

Watch the CECE's research videos on YouTube.

Education (CECE) — the research center that abuts the CFDRC — describes the CFDRC as “the heart of a Venn diagram” between the CECE and some of the University’s undergraduate teacher development programs, including early childhood, elementary, and physical education. Beyond serving children and families, the CFDRC hosts much of the University’s early childhood research. “Ninety percent of the research on children’s development and teachers’ growth at the University happens through the CFDRC,” Swaminathan said. Since 2006, the CECE has partnered with the CFDRC to publish 13 major studies on children’s development, with several earning international acclaim. One renowned study was the “Toys that Inspire Mindful Play and Nurture Imagination” (TIMPANI) assessment. Conducted annually from 2009 to 2019,

researchers used a specialized rating scale to identify a new “toy of the year.” The research highlighted how different toys support high-quality play that fosters social interaction and creativity across genders, backgrounds, and learning environments. Short documentaries highlighting TIMPANI and other Eastern early childhood studies can be found on the CECE YouTube channel, which hosts 250 videos with more than 35,000 subscribers and seven million views globally. Views peaked during the pandemic, as scholars used these materials as teaching resources during the era of distance learning. Top viewership was in countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, India, the Philippines, and Singapore. Jeffrey Trawick-Smith, professor emeritus and research consultant, said, “When I travel outside the United States, I continue to be amazed at how research findings and classroom practices at Eastern’s centers have impacted other countries.”

“To say the CFDRC had an impact on our lives is an understatement. Cameron is the successful student and human he is today because of the way [the school and staff] shaped him — in creativity, openness, learning, culture, and friendship. ... The CFDRC created an open space for individuality to the point where Cameron today still speaks so highly of his time in the Purple Room.” Jennifer King

(Cameron King, ages 4-5, 2018-19)

The Great Tree within the CFDRC’s Marketplace, named in honor of Carleton P. and Teresa H. James ’49, whose generous donations have supported the CFDRC over the years.

EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 31

“The CFDRC always kept us creative and encouraged us to explore so many different subjects.” — Jaylena Portuguez

A physical education major helps cool the kids off during Fun Mud Day (2017).

mit h ’2

Nicole Smith ’25 celebrates with her child after graduating from Eastern.

Enhancing Education The CFDRC also serves as a fundamental piece of Eastern’s undergraduate and graduate early childhood education p r o g r a m s . S ole As education Nic curriculum requires practical teaching experience, Swaminathan said, “Many students are able to complete that experience next door in the preschool.” Students in the physical education program also benefit from the CFDRC. They routinely conduct “gym” classes for the children and host the annual “Fun Mud Day.” During this event, the CFDRC playground transforms into a muddy landscape for wild and messy play — all supervised by students.

32 • Fall 2026 • EASTERN

For some families, the CFDRC serves as a vital childcare resource for parents pursuing new or continuing education. As a nontraditional student balancing coursework and parenting, Nicole Smith ’25 said having her child enrolled at the CFDRC made it possible for her to continue her own education. Beyond convenience, she saw firsthand how the center has helped her child grow both socially and academically. “I don’t think I could have finished my degree without the CFDRC,” Smith said. “Having dependable, loving childcare made it possible for me to stay on track with my classes. The staff was always understanding and communicative, and Eastern was supportive as well.”

Jaylena Portuguez attended the CFDRC as a child before enrolling in Eastern’s nursing program.

Jay

lena Portuguez

A Full-Circle Moment Current Eastern student Jaylena Portuguez’s connection to campus began nearly 15 years ago as a preschooler at the CFDRC. “Even now as a young adult, I can vividly remember my childhood experience,” she said. Some of her earliest friendships began on the CFDRC playground, connections that continued through elementary, middle, and high school. She recalls favorite moments like snack time smoothies, imaginative play in the classroom kitchen, and story time on the circular carpet.

Current and former CFDRC families, staff, and supporters gathered to celebrate the center’s 20th anniversary at a special celebration on June 26, 2026.

Certain spaces remain especially vivid in her memory, including the large tree near the CFDRC entrance with a small nook inside its trunk: “As a child, it was one of the coolest things.” She remembers hands-on activities that nurtured creativity and curiosity, from painting in smocks to science explorations like observing the butterfly life cycle and learning about bones. “The CFDRC always kept us creative,” she said, “and encouraged us to explore so many different subjects.” Now attending Eastern as a nursing student, Portuguez sees the CFDRC’s impact from a new perspective. She credits early exposure to science for shaping her curiosity and career path, explaining that those early experiences “set me up to always ask questions and seek out answers.” She also points to the strong partnership between Eastern and the CFDRC, noting that it creates meaningful, hands-on learning opportunities for students while strengthening the learning environment for the young children. Por t ug ue z’s connection to the CFDRC has remained constant over the years, first through her younger sister and now through her nephews, who currently attend the center. “It always feels like a full-circle moment,” she reflected. Since her days at the CFDRC, Eastern has prepared Portuguez for the next stages of life. Recalling her preschool graduation, “I remember feeling nervous about moving on to kindergarten,” Portuguez said, “but also confident that I was ready. The CFDRC prepared me to take on whatever was ahead.” EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 33

1992

Jesse Jackson Civil rights activist

1990s

’94 Marian Wright Edelman Richard “Skip” Hayward ’95 Bernice Clark Niejadlik ’50 ’96 E. M. S. Edirisinghe ’97 Jonathan Kozol Virginia Lowney ’98 Claribel Alegria

2000

Caroll Spinney Puppeteer, Sesame Street’s Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch

2002

Walter (Wally) Lamb Bestselling author

Photo by Neil Grabowsky (Wikimedia Commons)

Photo by Shana Surek

2010

Neil deGrasse Tyson Astrophysicist, author, science communicator

2015

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie ’01 Internationally acclaimed author, Eastern graduate

2017

Donald Graham TheDream.US co-founder, former publisher of The Washington Post

2010s

*Honorary Doctorate of Science

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’11 Anthony Brandenburg ’75 ’12 Michael Roth ’13 Carlotta Walls LaNier ’14 Nicholas Lawson ’16 Jerry Franklin ’18 Elinore McCance-Katz ’78* ’19 Marilynn Malerba*

2020s

’21 Mark Boxer Maryam Elahi Jeffery Flaks ’22 Lena Rodriguez ’23 Thomas Gibson ’96 ’24 Jeff Benedict ’91

2025

Mary Grant President of Massachusetts College of Art and Design

2003

Maya Angelou Poet, memoirist, civil rights activist

The remarkable individuals with an Eastern honorary degree For more than three decades, Eastern has recognized many extraordinary leaders, innovators, and artists with honorary degrees during its May commencement ceremonies. From civil rights icon Jesse Jackson and Sesame Street performer Caroll Spinney, to celebrated author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie ’01 and Hartford HealthCare President/CEO Jeffrey Flaks, recipients of Eastern’s Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters embody the ideals of the University’s public liberal arts mission.

2009

Faith Middleton ’71 Connecticut Public Radio talk show host, Eastern Graduate

Photo by Tom Hopkins

2000s

’01 Richard W. Riley ’07 Christopher Dahl ’04 John MacArthur Rosa DeLauro ’05 Marge Piercy ’08 Susan McCray James Sandler Michael Thomas ’06 Robert Pinsky ’09 Jonathan Daube Ralph Sturges

2026

Marilyn and David Foster Philanthropists

2026

Beth Regan ’79 M’89 Chairwoman and justice of the Mohegan Tribal Council of Elders, Eastern graduate

Read more about the recipients here. EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 35

Eastern’s tradition of preparing exceptional educators continues Byy Kyle Berson ’26

Edoors in 1889 as the Willimantic State Normal School, astern’s deepest roots are in education. Since openingg its

preparingg skilled and compassionate teachers has been a pillar off Eastern’s mission. Today’s alumni continue that legacy, with several earningg recognition this past academic year as top teachers in their respective districts and across the state at large.

BRIAN BETESH ’05: “History is my vessel” Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont and Connecticut Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker personallyy recognized Eastern alumnus Brian Betesh ’05 as the 2026 Connecticut Teacher off the Year. Betesh is a sixth-grade social studies teacher at Rogers Parkk Middle School in Danbury, the same school he attended years before enrollingg at Eastern to studyy history. “I love the storyy off people … that’s what historyy is,” said Betesh. “Historyy is myy vessel to be a teacher.” In the classroom, Betesh employs innovative strategies to engage his students and stimulate learning, with interactive experiences beingg a major part off his curriculum. A prime example is his end-of-year project, “Save Rome.” “Instead off just learningg about Rome, students have to figure out how w to save the Roman Empire from collapse by analyzingg all off the problems that Rome had,” he explained. The project “immerses students into historyy instead off simply memorizingg facts.” 36 • Fall 2026 • EASTERN

Betesh also leads multiple efforts outside off his social studies curriculum. He teaches a project-based learningg class and coordinates “Rogers That!,” a student-led podcast that has interviewed more than 80 local leaders, communityy members, and Rogers Parkk alumni. Governor Lamont said off him in a press release, “Betesh is a remarkable educator whose creativity, leadership, and deep commitment to his students embodyy the spirit off Connecticut’s public schools.”

KIMBERLY DEPAOLIS ’15: “You really can’t be a great educator alone” “It feels like the culmination off the passion and love that educators have poured into me over the years,” said special education and preschool teacher Kimberly DePaolis ’15, who was named Teacher off the Year byy Newington Public Schools. This academic year marks DePaolis’ 11th year at John Paterson Elementaryy School, where she also attended as a child. DePaolis credits her recognition not onlyy to her hard work, but also to her coworkers, family, friends, and fellow w educators “This nomination is the result of the collective efforts of many people who have shaped me to be a voracious learner and dedicated teacher.”

Kimberly DePaolis ’15

who supported her alongg the wayy and provided her with growth opportunities. “You reallyy can’t be a great educator alone,” she said. “This nomination is the result off the collective efforts of manyy people who have shaped me to be a voracious learner and dedicated teacher.” At Eastern, DePaolis fostered several lastingg connections with facultyy and classmates, worked for the Center for Communityy Engagement (CCE) and the Center for Early Childhood Education (CECE), and traveled to Jamaicaa to learn about teachingg practices in the Caribbean.

LAINA RIVERS M’18: Encouraging civil discourse and conﬁdence Lainaa Rivers M’18, a third-grade teacher at Clover Street School in Windsor, was named the district’s 2026 Teacher off the Year for her strongg commitment to fosteringg a supportive and empowering classroom environment. “Third-grade students are still learning how to communicate their ideas, listen to others, disagree respectfully, and collaborate productively,” Rivers said. “Encouragingg civil discourse helps students build confidence in their voices while also learningg that their classmates’ perspectives matter.” Rivers graduated from Eastern with a master’s degree in educational studies through the Holmes Master’s Program, a partnership with the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, which supports teachers from historicallyy underrepresented populations.

“Encouraging civil discourse helps students build conﬁdence in their voices while also learning that their classmates’ perspectives matter.”

Laina Rivers M’18 “That experience deepened d myy unde understanding u nderrrsta nd s g off equity equity, quity, y, representation, ep and advocacy accyy in n education, ed duca cation i n, and d reinforc re nforce forced myy commitment to ensuring sur urin ingg that in t at students st s themselve see emselve ems lves ves reflected and value valued alued ed withi witthi w hin n sschools scc and classrooms, room oms,” ms,” said Rivers.

JAKE PACIOTTI ’21: A top new science teacher Jake Paciotti ’21, a science teacher at Coventryy High School, received the 2026 Ralph and Ruth Yulo New Teacher Award. The statewide recognition, named after esteemed Eastern Professor Emeritus Ralph Yulo Jr. and presented byy the Connecticut Science Teachers Association, honors new w K-12 science teachers in Connecticut who encourage students to question and observe, improve instructional practices, and design interdisciplinary learningg opportunities. “Myy initial reaction to winningg the award was disbelief,” Paciotti said, admittingg he hadn’t originallyy thought of himselff as an exemplaryy teacher. Coventryy Public Schools, on the contrary, reported in a social mediaa post that Paciotti was chosen to receive the award for his leadership, innovative teaching, and commitment to student success.

“If students don’t feel comfortable, properly supported, and heard while in your classroom, it becomes that much more difﬁcult to keep them engaged, learning, and open to new ideas.”

Jake Paciotti ’21 Paciotti employs project-based learning techniques and highlights diverse and marginalized identities to enrich his classroom. To support varied learningg needs, he incorporates universal design, differentiation, and backward planningg into his dailyy curriculum. “Teachingg is unattainable without first creatingg this sort off environment,” he noted. “Iff students don’t feel comfortable, properlyy supported, and heard while in your classroom, oo it becomes that much more difficult to keep them hem eng ngaged, learning, and open to new w ideas.” P ciotti Pa Paciotti Pac o graduated g fro Eastern with degrees in biology from and nd Spanish. Span Spanish He credits ed dits SSpanish p Professor Kin Chan and bi g y Profes biolog fessors Bryan fes Bry ryan yaan Connolly, C Brett Mattingly, y, and d Rooosss Ros s Ko Koning K oning on oning ing ngg as a influential ntia mentors along ngg his journey. “II real rrealized eali aliz alize lized liz ze that no matter myy path forward, d I wanted d too be the t kind off educator that theyy were th w ... considerate, co knowledgeable, patient, and impactful,” hee sa said said. ai

EASTERN ASTTE AS TE ER R • Fall F 2026 • 37

RACHEL VALENTINE ’01: Honoring childhood “As educators, we don’t do this workk for individual accolades,” said preschool teacher Rachel Valentine ’01. “We do it for daily breakthroughs, the spark off curiosityy in a student’s eyes, and the community we build within our classrooms.” Valentine was named Teacher of the Year in Plainville for her workk at Louis Toffolon Elementaryy School. Valentine utilizes play-based learning, whole-child philosophy, and social-emotional learning frameworks, helpingg youngg students learn to build emotional intelligence and foster a positive and supportive learningg environment. “Academics cannot happen without a foundation of safety, belonging, and emotional regulation,” she explained. “Ultimately, I thinkk this recognition celebrates a teaching philosophyy that honors childhood itself.”

“Teachingg is not just about content,” she said. “It’s about pouringg into your students and recognizingg that theyy are in a larger journeyy off life.” Over her 13-year career, Gilroyy has taught at both Lincoln High School and Lincoln Middle School, in addition to a year taught in Waimea, HI. This year, she was awarded a Rhode Island Department off Education grant to support a wellness room initiative called the “R.E.S.E.T. Room,” which serves as a mental wellness resource for students and staff.

“Teaching is not just about content. … It’s about pouring into your students and recognizing that they are in a larger journey of life.”

Kileen Gilroy ’10 Gilroyy describes her teachingg philosophyy as rooted in yogaa and humanitarianism. “Those principles are naturally integrated in myy work. … I view w teachingg as a service to better individual lives, the community, and ultimatelyy the planet.”

GRIFFIN MICHALEK ’20: “Building relationships is everything” “Academics cannot happen without a foundation of safety, belonging, and emotional regulation. … Ultimately, I think this recognition celebrates a teaching philosophy that honors childhood itself.”

Rachel Valentine ’01 Valentine learned manyy off her classroom philosophies and strategies duringg her time at Eastern. She credits education Professor Emeritus Jeffreyy Trawick-Smith and earlyy childhood education Professor Sudhaa Swaminathan as instrumental in her development as an educator. “It was at Eastern that I first began to understand the profound impact off play-based and inquiry-based learning,” Valentine said. “The courseworkk emphasized that a teacher’s role is to guide discoveryy rather than to dictate it.”

KILEEN GILROY ’10: A mindfulness philosophy Kileen Gilroy oy ’10, 1 10 a lan language angu gua arts teache acher ache er att Lincoln Linc Li L in nco n cool Midd dle Scho Sch School hool in Linco Li Lincoln, L in RI, I, was w s nam amed med d the h district’s i t i ’ 2026 20 202 026 26 Tea Teache eache heer off the Year for employing emp mplo mployi yin ing mindfulness to create ate tee a judgment-free learning environment. ronm

38 • Fall 2026 6 • EASTERN AS STER ST R

Griffin Michalek ’20 was pleasantlyy surprised to be named East Hartford Public Schools’ 2026-27 Teacher of the Year. “I thinkk there are a billion other teachers that deserve it more than me,” he said. The seventh-grade social studies teacher at Sunset Ridge Middle School emphasizes buildingg strong relationships with students: “Buildingg relationships is everything.” One off his students said in a testimony: “You can walkk into his class, and even iff an assignment is boring, we’ll still have a lot off fun with it.” Another expressed that “it’s excitingg to know w that the best teacher in East Hartford is Mr. Michalek.” Outside off the classroom, Michalekk runs an after-school sports program and works with East Hartford Parks and Recre Recreation, providingg students with opportunities to socialize, buil build uil community, y, and have fun.

CONNECTING THE DOTS Eastern faculty and staff ponder the liberal arts

Bryce Crapser Director of Counseling Services Thr Through [the liberal arts], students begin to develop the he emotional and intellectual flexibility necessary for life in a complicated world. They learn to sit with ambiguity, consider multiple perspectives, ask thoughtful questions, and recognize the humanity in experiences different from their own. These capacities are essential not only for citizenship and careers, but for mental health and wellbeing.

Stephen Ferruci Professor of English

I ssometimes use Sherlock Holmes as an example le when explaining the liberal arts to students. Holmes is effective not simply because he is ‘smart,’ but because he knows a little about a lot of things and can connect them: history, chemistry, literature, geography, social customs, human behavior, language, etc. That breadth of knowledge allows him to notice patterns and meanings other people miss. That seems like one of the clearest explanations of what the liberal arts are trying to do. We ask students to study broadly not because every course directly connects to a job title, but because broad knowledge deepens perception and judgment. The more frameworks students have, the better they become at interpreting complex situations and understanding people.

Hope-Marie Cook Head of Curriculum Center & Education Librarian The liberal arts teach you to think critically — to question ues what you hear, read, or see. Information is indeed power. Those who have critical thinking skills learn how to gather information and ferret out discrepancies, bias, and misinformation, and therefore will never be afraid of information.

Emiliano Villanueva Professor of Business Administration I want w students to understand issues from multiple perspectives and to consider the mu historical, economic, cultural, and social contexts. … The value of a liberal arts education lies in developing the ability to see this complexity, engage respectfully with different perspectives, and make better-informed judgments.

Kristen Morgan Professor of Communication, Film, and Theatre Our human brains are built to recognize patterns and make connections. The liberal arts not only strengthen connections conn between multiple areas, but also ask us to challenge the patterns we have already formed. What a delight to see things fit together in a new way, to challenge our long-held assumptions, to be surprised by how big the world really is, and to know that you can spend the rest of your life learning how things fit together. EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 39

Warriors take the field with a new ‘E’ The Warriors have entered a new era with a bold new look. Eastern Athletics unveiled a redesigned “E” logo in spring 2026, marking the University’s first athletics rebrand in roughly 15 years. The new look arrives at a time of significant growth for Eastern Athletics, with recently completed turf fields and the launch of the University’s 21st varsity sport: women’s flag football. “There’s so much going on with athletics right now,” said former Director of Athletics Lori Runksmeier, who retired at the conclusion of the

spring semester. “It’s the perfect time for a rebrand.” Women’s flag football head coach Andy Crane echoed that excitement, calling the logo “tough” and a fitting

symbol for the University’s newest team. “The potential for where we can go is endless,” he said, noting that flag football is the NCAA’s fastest-growing sport. The logo was designed by Varsity Brands, a subsidiary of BSN Sports, and created with input from members of the campus community. “The future of Eastern Athletics is bright,” said President Karim Ismaili. “It’s a reflection of momentum and a fresh look for what’s ahead.”

“The future of Eastern Athletics is bright. It’s a reflection of momentum and a fresh look for what’s ahead” - President Karim Ismaili

Athletic complex gets 3 more turf fields Eastern student-athletes are competing on three new state-of-the-art turf fields at the Mansfield Athletic Outdoor Complex. The turf installations at Clyde Washburne Field (softball) and Holowaty Family Field (baseball) were completed in spring 2026. This summer, the field shared by Eastern’s newly launched women’s flag football team and club rugby teams also received a synthetic playing surface, bringing the athletic complex’s total to four turfed facilities — the fourth being Rick McCarthy Field, the complex’s multi-use facility for field hockey, soccer, and lacrosse. “The new turf fields represent an exciting step forward for Eastern and our student-athletes,” said President Karim Ismaili. “This investment enhances the experience of our baseball, softball, flag football, and club rugby teams while continuing our commitment to strengthening campus facilities.” The upgrades include nearly 250,000 square feet of synthetic playing surfaces between the three new fields, upgraded fencing, and renovated bullpens. The flag football/rugby field also received a new scoreboard, flagpole, and bleachers.

40 • Fall 2026 • EASTERN

ATHLETICS

Tops in the LEC Warriors claim 7th Commissioner’s Cup

EASTERN

Class of 2026 Melvin F. Castillo ’11 2007-2010 Baseball Christian M. D’Ambrosio 2000-2021 Women’s Soccer Coach

Eastern captured the 2025-26 Little East Conference (LEC) Commissioner’s Cup, earning the conference’s top award for overall athletic performance for the seventh time in the last nine years. Consistency across Eastern’s 20 varsity programs fueled the championship. All but one program finished fifth or better in the conference standings. The Warriors claimed regular-season titles in field hockey and women’s soccer, led the LEC’s core institutions in both men’s and women’s swimming and diving, and posted strong finishes across baseball, softball, men’s and women’s golf, men’s soccer, women’s lacrosse, and indoor and outdoor track and field. “This is a proud moment for Eastern and for Warrior Athletics,” said President Karim Ismaili. “Winning the Commissioner’s Cup reflects the sustained excellence of our athletics program and the remarkable dedication of our student-athletes, coaches, and staff.”

The title capped another standout year for several programs. Field hockey completed its first undefeated conference season (6-0) and advanced to the LEC championship game aff ter winning just three conference games over the previous two seasons. Women’s soccer captured its first regular-season conference title in seven years (10th overall), finishing 5-1-2 in league play. Eastern also dominated in the pool. The women’s swimming team won its second LEC championship in three years, setting a program scoring record with 839.5 points. The men’s team, the defending conference champion, finished as the top-scoring LEC core institution at the championship meet. The Commissioner’s Cup also served as a fitting finale for Director of Athletics Lori Runksmeier, whose leadership helped guide Warrior Athletics to seven conference titles during her tenure.

Max W. Fantl ’10 2006-2010 Men’s Soccer / Lacrosse Alexandra R. (Kallgren) Revane ’18 2014-2017 Field Hockey Adrianna Mihalek ’17 2013-2016 Women’s Volleyball 2026 Little East Conference Inductee

David H. Nicholson ’06 2002-2006 Men’s Track & Field Induction Ceremony and Social Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, at 5 p.m. Fine Arts Instructional Center, Concert Hall

Purchase tickets:

EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 41

ATHLETICS

Excellence On and Off the Field

presentedd to swimmer Uzi Bhura ’26, honoring a graduating male studentathlete whose accomplishments reflect athletic excellence, loyalty, leadership, integrity, andd sportsmanship. A four-yearr memberr off the men’s swimmingg team andd a two-yearr captain, Bhuraa is onlyy the secondd swimmerr to earn the Geisslerr Award. The Morrell Service Award was

Softball Head Coach Amber Maisonet comes to Eastern after 16 seasons at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), where she compiled a 398-172-1 record. Under her leadership, the Engineers captured eight Liberty League regular-season championships, two conference tournament titles, and made four NCAA AMBER Tournament appearances. Her MAISONET coaching staff was named Liberty League Coaching Staff of the Year seven times, while her players earned All-America honors and national academic recognition. “I am excited to continue building on the program’s winning culture and to bring this team to new heights of success on and off the field,” said Maisonet in joining Eastern. Maisonet is the softball program’s seventh permanent head coach, following Diane Pepin ’92, who led the Warriors for 25 seasons from 2002 to 2026, coaching 969 games and amassing 611 victories for a career winning percentage of .632.

SOFTBALL

42 • Fall 2026 • EASTERN

HANK PENDERS

The Bonnie J. Edmondson Senior Female Sports Person off the Yearr Award was presentedd to softball player Maddy Bowen ’26. Duringg herr career, Bowen earnedd First Team All-Little Eastt Conference honors, National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) All-Region recognition, NFCA All-Americaa Scholar-Athlete honors, and Eastern's Outstanding Scholar-Athlete Award. She became justt the thirdd softball playerr to receive the Edmondson Award since its inception in 2000. The Francis E. Geisslerr Seniorr Male Sports Person off the Yearr Awardd was

UZI BHURA

Eastern Athletics recognized three outstanding student-athletes with its highest annual honors for the 2025-26 academic year, celebrating excellence in competition, academics, leadership, and service.

MADDY BOWEN

3 graduating student-athletes receive major awards

presented to baseball player Hank Penders ’26 for his years of service andd dedication to the Departmentt of Athletics, where he was a studentt employee. A three-yearr startingg infielderr and seniorr captain, Penders helpedd leadd the Warriors to the NCAA A Regional Tournamentt in 2024 while earningg Firstt Team All-Little Eastt Conference andd Little East All-Academicc honors.

Andy Crane is the inaugural head coach of Eastern’s new women’s flag football program, which will begin competition in spring 2027. The addition of flag football makes Eastern the first institution in the Little East Conference to sponsor the rapidly growing sport and expands the University’s varsity offerings to 21 programs, ANDY including 12 women’s teams. CRANE Crane brings more than two decades of coaching experience at the collegiate and high school levels, most recently serving as head men’s golf coach at Felician University after seven years of coaching golf at Mount Saint Mary College. He also gained valuable experience launching Mount Saint Mary’s club flag football program, overseeing recruiting, budgeting, and game strategy. “One team, one goal. Play for the person next to you,” Crane said. “You’ve only got one shot at starting it for the first time.”

FLAG FOOTBALL

Richard Crane ’86 was selected as the inaugural dean of faculty at Benedictine College, where he is a professor and chair of the school’s history department. In this role, he will support faculty engagement, promote the highest standards of academic excellence, and foster collaboration between senior administrators and academic professors. Kathy Gentilozzi ’81 is now chief people officer at Undefeated Tribe, a franchise group within the Crunch Fitness system. Gentilozzi, a nationally recognized human resources executive with more than three decades of experience, most recently served as chief people officer at Planet Fitness World Headquarters. Dan Delisle ’82 has been elected chairman of Cromwell’s Zoning Board of Appeals and was chairman of Cromwell’s delegation to the 2026 Republican State Convention at Mohegan Sun. Paul Dillon ’85 has been appointed diocesan finance officer for the Diocese of Norwich. Dillon is a seasoned financial executive with more than 30 years of experience in finance, accounting, treasury, and administration for international and domestic organizations.

Shelley Rubino ’87 has joined the law firm Dentons as a senior policy director in its Regulatory, Public Policy, and Government Affairs practice, based in Washington, D.C. Rubino brings extensive experience in directing policy initiatives, building bipartisan consensus, and advancing legislative priorities. Mike Nystrom ’88 was inducted into the Norwich Sports Hall of Fame on June 8, 2025. One of the most touching moments during his career came when 20 former players surprised him with a heartfelt celebration following a state tournament game that also commemorated his 40th year of coaching — a gesture that speaks volumes about the impact he has had on countless lives. Michelle Buswell ’89 has started a new position as senior vice president and chief operating officer at the Banner Life family of companies. This is the latest

stop in a career filled with leadership roles, beginning with Cigna Healthcare in January 2000.

Rob Goodwin ’90 was announced as chief operating officer of Parexel, a leading global clinical research organization. He previously served in multiple leadership roles for Pfizer from 1998 to 2025. Chris Kebalka ’90 returned to Savings Bank of Walpole (SBW) as senior vice president and commercial loan officer. Kebalka rejoins the bank with more than 13 years of experience at SBW. Jeffrey Brandt ’92 started a new position as subcontracts program senior manager at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control in Orlando, FL. He has been employed by Lockheed Martin since 2006. Jim Mitchell ’93 has started a new position as vice president of sales at Edmunds GovTech in Northfield, NJ. He has been with Edmunds since June 2022. Marc Witkowski ’94, along with the Feynman Center for Innovation at Los Alamos National Laboratory, received a national award from the Federal Laboratory Consortium for Technology Transfer (FLC). Witkowski received the Excellence in Technology Transfer Award for advancing the Ion Pair Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA) technology. Witkowski is a senior commercialization manager at the laboratory.

By Ed Osborn When Robert “Bob” Polito ’86 retired from his role as senior vice president at Webster Bank in 2019, he found himself with a bit of time on his hands. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit a few months later, Polito decided to reconnect with his favorite professor from Eastern: former political science Professor Jay Cobbledick. Since 2020, Polito and Cobbledick have scheduled a two-hour phone call each Monday night. The two friends talk about anything from politics to social issues: “Everything is up for grabs,” said Polito. Cobbledick finds the duo’s weekly calls to be “absolutely stimulating. We talk about whatever is on our minds. Sometimes we deal with personal topics. We keep each other on our toes.” Cobbledick recalls his long tenure at Eastern with fondness. He taught public policy and government at Eastern from 1971 to 2009, and helped create the Department of Political Science, Philosophy, and Geography. “Jay was my favorite professor, hands down,” said Polito. “Even though my advisor kept telling me to explore my horizons, I took every class I could of Jay’s.”

Lori Franchina ’95 and her slow-pitch softball team, Shots Fired, won the Senior Softball-USA World Championship as well as Eastern National and USA National titles — the Triple Grand Slam title of softball. Franchina finished the tournament with a batting average above .700 while driving in more than 10 runs. For her efforts, she was named the Most Valuable Player. Cynthia (D’Onofrio) Gallo ’95 is the new assistant principal at John Winthrop Elementary School in Bridgeport. The daughter of Italian immigrants who settled in Bridgeport in the 1960s, she was the first person in her family to attend college. EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 43

By Michael Rouleau ’11 Willimantic has welcomed a new small business to Main Street, owned and operated by Eastern alumna Tammy Gerhard ’92. Silk City Coffee opened its doors in fall 2025 on the nine-year anniversary of its flagship location in Manchester. “We’re celebrating a multifaceted business built around excellent products and a commitment to making a positive impact on the communities we serve,” said Gerhard of her company’s mission. Since its founding in October 2016, Silk City Coffee has grown from a neighborhood café and bakery into a full-service roastery with e-commerce and wholesale operations. In 2025, the company earned international recognition, ranking No. 67 on the inaugural list of The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops. “Every Main Street deserves an excellent, community-based coffee shop,” Gerhard said at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, adding that bringing Silk City to Willimantic feels like a homecoming. As an Eastern student, she studied psychology and lived in Winthrop Hall — “just a seven-minute walk away,” she recalled. “We couldn’t ask for a better second location. I basically grew up here.” Lisa Simonetti ’96 was appointed senior vice president and head of talent at Corbin Advisors in Farmington, a strategic consulting firm. Simonetti brings more than 20 years of leadership experience to the role, with a proven track record of driving talent strategy, supporting C-suite leaders, and building inclusive, high-performing cultures. James Wicks ’96 has started a new position as chief financial officer at Ragozzino Foods in Meriden, CT. He was CFO of XSE Group for eight years. Daniel R. Canavan ’97 joined Harris Beach Murtha in May as a partner based in the regional law firm’s New Haven office. Canavan was most recently the vice president of regulatory affairs at Avangrid, which owns United Illuminating and Southern Connecticut Gas. Marc Hovhannissian ’97 has started a new position as Northeast chief technology officer of Xerox IT Solutions after spending eight years with Microsoft. Brian LaJoie ’97 has started a new position as vice president of public entity claims at NIP Group Inc. in Iselin, NJ. He has been employed by NIP since June 2021. John Levonick ’97 has joined MAXEX as general counsel. His appointment reflects the increasingly strategic role 44 • Fall 2025 • EASTERN

Tammy Gerhard ’92 (scissors) with co-owners Glenn Gerhard, Sarah May, and Rob May at the Silk City Coffee-Willimantic grand opening in fall 2025.

of legal, regulatory, technological, and structural innovation as MAXEX advances its mission to transition the mortgage secondary market from analog to digital. Leah Pearson ’97 is a poet and host of “Speak Your Mind,” a regional community access TV show in western Connecticut that highlights local artists. Pearson told The Newtown Bee of the show’s intent: “I wanted a way to reach fellow poets, for them to feel like they have permission to write, as well as bring in some writing prompts, for them to get ideas, but also for me to learn new writing prompts from all of our wonderful local artists.” Tubby Fonville ’99 was inducted into the Norwich Sports Hall of Fame on June 8, 2025. In 1977, Fonville started a women’s softball league in Norwich. During her career at Electric Boat, the company’s athletic club presented her with the 1986 Dorothy Bliven Award for softball and volleyball. Jackie Silverstein ’99 was named among The Top 50 Women Leaders of Pittsburgh for 2025 by Women We Admire. Silverstein serves as head of enterprise risk, regulatory compliance, and policy management at MassMutual. She was promoted to this role to build, lead, and implement strategic governance, risk, and compliance practices across the organization on a larger scale

than what she had successfully established for its cybersecurity business unit. Lee Walter ’99 has been the general manager of the Norwich Sea Unicorns collegiate baseball team since January 2022. Under his leadership, the team has won three straight Futures League championships.

Eric Coelho ’00 has started a new position as thought leader liaison for rare disease neuroimmunology at Amgen. For more than 20 years, he has served in management roles with biotech firms such as Actelion, Gilead Sciences, Bayer Pharmaceuticals, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, and argenx. Birgit Girshick ’00 was appointed chief executive officer of Charles River Laboratories in January 2026, following her tenure as executive vice president and chief operating officer. Her appointment was the result of a unanimous vote by the Charles River Board of Directors as the organization transitions into its next phase of growth.

public policy, research, and science. Among the inductees was alumnus Marc Freeman ’93, director of the Vollum Institute at Oregon Health and Science University. “It is an enormous honor to be elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, whose mission is to broadly cultivate the arts and sciences to advance our understanding of the world, each other, and to enrich lives,” said Freeman. “I look forward to having the opportunity to work with members of the Academy to support science and the arts, and to try to help solve some of the hard problems we face in the world today.” A protégé of the late biology Professor Michael Adams, Freeman graduated from Eastern after earning a Henry Barnard Distinguished Student Award in 1993. He received his Ph.D. in biology from Yale University in 1999, completed postdoctoral research at the University of Oregon, and joined the University By Ed Osborn of Massachusetts Medical School faculty in The American Academy of Arts and Sciences announced its 2026 2004, where he led a neurobiology research class of elected members this April, recognizing 252 distinguished team. He received a Howard Hughes Medical leaders in academia, the arts, industry, journalism, philanthropy, Institute Early Career Scientist Award in 2009 Todd Heft ’00 and his son bring calm to the high-speed, high-stress sport of auto racing. The Hefts are race chaplains with a network called Racing With Jesus Ministries. Heft says their mission is to step into the volatility of the racing world with the peace and comfort of the gospel.

Jason Zamagni ’02 has started a new position as business process principal consultant at SAP NS2 in Virginia. He has worked in SAP (systems, applications, and products) roles throughout his career, including stints with companies such as EY, Northrop Grumman, and L3 Harris Technologies.

Andrew Loomis ’00 has started a new position as program manager of internal safety evaluation at Amazon. He has been with Amazon since 2019.

Bryan Luca ’03 has started a new position as regional account sales manager at Legend Brands.

Elroy Bernard ’01 has started a new position as manufacturing readiness level project manager at Pratt & Whitney in East Hartford. He has previously held project management positions with Quest Global, Belcan, Northrop Grumman, and Collins Aerospace. Kristen Kearney ’01 has started a new position as lead director of Medicaid provider compliance at Aetna in Hartford. She has been with the company for 11 years. Rachel Valentine ’01 was named Teacher of the Year in Plainville for her work at Louis Toffolon Elementary School. Valentine utilizes play-based learning, whole-child philosophy, and social-emotional learning to help young students learn to build emotional intelligence. Christopher Forando ’02 has started a new position as vice president of people and performance at Subway.

Heather Timney ’03 has been promoted to senior customer marketing manager at Sumo Logic. She previously led customer advocacy programs and excels at driving engagement and retention through targeted communications. Michael Bello ’04 has started a new position as account executive at WorkMarket by ADP in New York City. Bello had worked for ADP for 11 years previously. Erin Chiz ’04 started a new position as senior technical recruiter at Beacon Hill in Glastonbury. She previously held similar positions at Edge Technology Services, iTech Solutions, and Kforce Inc. Justin Wengrzynek ’04 has started a new position as sourcing manager at Avangrid in Orange after spending six years at Pitney Bowes and a decade at Unilever.

and was appointed director of the Vollum Institute in 2016. Eastern honored Freeman with its Distinguished Alumni Award in 2013. “Marc Freeman is one of Eastern’s most accomplished alumni and truly deserving of election to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences,” said Eastern President Karim Ismaili. “Since leaving Eastern, not only has he made major contributions to the international field of neurobiology, but he also inspires and supports current student researchers at Eastern through the Student Research Endowed Scholarship Fund, which was launched in 2014 by Freeman and his wife, Amy Sheehan ’93.” The American Academy of Arts and Sciences was established in 1780. The new class joins Academy members elected before them, including Benjamin Franklin (elected 1781), Ralph Waldo Emerson (1864), Charles Darwin (1874), Albert Einstein (1924), Robert Frost (1931), Margaret Mead (1948), Martin Luther King, Jr. (1966), Madeleine K. Albright (2001), Jennifer Doudna (2003), Esther Duflo (2009), John Legend (2017), José Andrés (2025), and many more.

Brian Betesh ’05, a 19-year educator, was named 2026 Connecticut Teacher of the Year, highlighting his student-centric teaching philosophy. This is the second distinguished honor for Betesh, who was also named Danbury Teacher of the Year in May 2025. Jennifer Hammer ’05 started her tenure as principal of Coventry Grammar School in August 2025. As an educator, she has more than 22 years of experience and has taught every elementary school grade except fourth grade. Ashon Avent ’08 was appointed chairman of the Norwich Public Utilities (NPU) Board of Commissioners. Avent, who has been an NPU commissioner since 2021, is the owner of T-Shirt World and an instructor in Eastern’s Department of Business Administration. John Comerford ’08 has started a new position as CAAS (client accounting and advisory services) chief financial officer at CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen) in West Hartford. He previously held accounting management positions with Accounting Resources Inc. and BlumShapiro. Ashley Flagg ’08 of The Laurel in West Hartford was named Chef of the Year by the Connecticut Restaurant Association and its CRAZIES awards. Each year, the CRAZIES recognizes the ability and talent of Connecticut’s hospitality community at its awards gala. EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 45

By Ed Osborn Sherri Vogt’s ’94 life is steeped in the military. Her many contributions to the veteran community earned her a 2026 induction into the Connecticut Veterans

Hall of Fame. A veteran herself, Vogt currently works as a veterans liaison for Hartford HealthCare, helping former service members plan for retirement and access benefits and services. One of Vogt’s primary focuses involves the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers, a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs initiative that pays family members to care for veterans with catastrophic injuries. “When I see families able to use the program, I leave their homes feeling that I was born for that moment,” said Vogt. “It fills me with a special sense of purpose.” Military service has long been a tradition in Vogt’s family. Her father served in the 173rd Airborne Brigade, and her grandfathers served in World Wars I and II. Following in their footsteps, Vogt enlisted in the Army at age 17 and served four years in Germany, including during the early stages of Desert Storm. Compared to larger institutions, Eastern offered a more welcoming environment as Vogt transitioned back to civilian life and pursued a degree in history and social science. “I loved the small classes,” she said. “The professors knew my name. They cared about me.”

Jordan Fogel ’08 has started a new position as senior vice president and head of commercial real estate at Union Savings Bank in Danbury. He previously served in a similar role at United Bank from 2012 to 2020.

policies that encourage the discovery of important, new medicines for patients by biopharmaceutical research companies.” Powaleny first joined PhRMA in July 2015 after previous stints with The Herald Group and the U.S. Congress.

Matthew McLinskey ’08 has started a new position as risk and underwriting senior manager of pharmacy at Cigna Healthcare in Bloomfield. He has been employed by Cigna since 2011. David White ’08 was appointed the new assistant principal of the middle school at Portsmouth Christian Academy in New Hampshire. Born and raised in Connecticut, White answered a call to New Hampshire 10 years ago and now resides in Rochester with his wife and family. Kerin Griffin ’09 has started a new position as an experienced accessibility consultant at Principal Financial Group. She has an information technology background. Laura Miller ’09 has started a new position as supervisor of energy efficiency at Eversource Energy in Hartford. Previously, she was the director of energy and sustainability for eight years at the University of New Haven. Andrew Powaleny ‘09 has been named deputy vice president of public affairs at PhRMA, a Washington, D.C., nonprofit with a mission to “advocate for public 46 • Fall 2026 • EASTERN

Ryan Carlin ’10 has started a new position as an investment professional at JVP Management in New York City. He previously served as vice president of originations at The Amherst Group and director of capital markets and syndications at Greystone. David Cartagena ’10 was announced as the new chief product officer at PCMI (Policy Claim Management International), a leading provider of administration software for automotive and consumer extended warranty markets. In his role, Cartagena will oversee the strategy and execution of PCMI’s product organization, leading roadmap development, scaling delivery processes, and strengthening collaboration between product, engineering, marketing, and client success teams.

While Eastern prepared Vogt to teach middle school history, it also strengthened her commitment to civic engagement. “I learned that government matters and that we can influence policy,” she said. After teaching in eastern Connecticut schools, Vogt worked for U.S. Congressman Joseph Courtney and later for Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty. During that time, she collaborated with the Connecticut National Guard and state veterans agencies to advance legislation benefiting veterans, which included expanding the caregiver assistance program for which she now serves as a liaison. Since joining Hartford HealthCare in 2019, Vogt has continued to advocate for veterans through home visits, public speaking, and community outreach. She also remains active in public service through the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs Board of Trustees, the Veterans with Disabilities Taskforce, and the Brooklyn Board of Selectmen — continuing a lifetime dedicated to serving both veterans and the community.

Jocelyn DeMaio ’10 was named one of The Top 50 Women Leaders of Hartford for 2025 by Women We Admire. DeMaio has a history of volunteering and has been recognized for her contributions, receiving the Hartford Business Journal’s 40 Under Forty award in 2015 and the President’s Volunteer Service Award in 2018, 2019, and 2020. Max Fantl ’10, a former two-sport standout at Eastern and current Farmington educator, has been selected for induction into the Eastern Athletics Alumni Hall of Fame. Fantl earned recognition as one of the most accomplished student-athletes in Eastern history during his four-year career in both men’s soccer and men’s lacrosse, while also earning three-time Little East All-Academic and Academic All-District honors. Kileen Gilroy ’10 was named the Lincoln Public Schools (Lincoln, RI) 2026 Teacher of the Year. A seventh-grade English language arts teacher, Gilroy was praised for her energy, enthusiasm, and positive attitude, as well as the high expectations she sets for her students and herself. Frank-Thomas Grogan ’10 has started a new position as executive director of data operations at OMD USA, based in the New York City Metropolitan Area. He has been employed by OMD for five years.

Nicholas Noheimer ’10 has been appointed as the 14th permanent head coach in the 54-year history of the men’s and women’s cross-country program at Eastern. A native of Willimantic and an Eastern cross-country and track & field athlete from 2005 to 2010, Noheimer is in his 15th season of collegiate coaching, having spent the past 11 years as the head men’s and women’s cross-country coach and the assistant men’s and women’s track & field coach at the University of New Haven. Brian Ackley ’11 has started a new position as senior account executive at Motion Recruitment in Boston. Motion Recruitment is a Kelly Services company, providing IT staffing and consulting solutions across North America to meet demand for technology expertise. Heather Alge ’11 was announced by The Fogarty Center’s board of directors as their new chief executive officer, having previously served as chief operating officer. Andrew DiSilvestro ’11 is president and owner of AmeriTech Contracting, a federal general contracting firm, and was named to Hartford Business Journal’s 40 under Forty Class of 2025. An Air Force veteran serving as the senior enlisted leader for the 103rd Civil Engineer Squadron, DiSilvestro fuses military precision with strategic vision to execute complex federal construction projects and build high-performing teams.

Patrick Warren ’11 has started a new position as associate director of supply chain contracts (mission systems) at Collins Aerospace in Charlotte, NC. He started his career with Pratt & Whitney in 2016.

a division of BankNewport. In this role, LeBreux oversees key national dealer and client relationships and delivers comprehensive marine financing solutions for customers across the United States.

Chris Wojick ’11 was chosen by Tulane University Head Coach Jay Uhlman as the baseball team’s pitching coach and recruiting coordinator in June 2026. “Chris has been a winner at every stop in his career, advancing through the coaching ranks while succeeding in environments where resources were not always abundant,” explained Coach Uhlman.

Samantha Esposito ’14 has started a new position as senior clinical research program manager at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. She had previously spent 2018-21 at Americares and 2021-25 at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

Jason Panek ’12 has started a new position as data services manager at Turtle & Hughes Integrated Supply in Clark, NJ. He spent the previous 12 years as a data analyst for Turtle. Matthew Caminiti ’13 has started a new position as senior manager of revenue operations at DraftKings Inc. in Boston. He has been employed by DraftKings for a decade. Anthony Gennusa ’13 has started a new position as senior director of event production at Madison Square Garden Entertainment in New York City. He has been with MSGE since 2018.

Kimberly DePaolis ’15, a prekindergarten teacher at John Paterson Elementary School, has been named the 2026-27 Teacher of the Year for Newington Public Schools. “Ms. DePaolis embodies what we want NPS to be for students and has a passion for her work, an ability to inspire learning in our youngest students, a commitment to the district mission, enthusiasm, and deep compassion for her school community — these all strongly support her selection as Newington’s Teacher of the Year,” Superintendent Maureen Brummett said. Lawrence Peterson III ’15 has started a new position as an associate operations account specialist at Travelers. He has been with the company for seven years.

Tim LeBreux ’13 was recently promoted to vice president and national account manager by OceanPoint Marine Lending,

By Ed Osborn Sharale (Walker) Mathis ’98 began her second year as president of the Capitol and Tunxis campuses of CT State Community College in fall 2026. After graduating from Hartford Public High School in 1994, Mathis started college at Howard University in Washington, D.C., determined to become an OB/GYN. After a year attending Howard, the financial cost forced her to pause her college plans. Friends encouraged her to transfer to Eastern. “It was the best decision I ever made,” she reflected. In her junior year, Mathis became pregnant with her son and thought she might have to drop out. “I spoke with Professors Alan Wright, Charles Booth, and Yaw Nsiah, and gave each of them my speech on why I felt I couldn’t continue,” said Mathis. “Each of them told me they saw no reason for me to drop out. They took care of me and I didn’t miss a single semester.”

In 2006, Mathis joined Manchester Community College, working as a program coordinator for a National Science Foundation grant to support first-generation and underrepresented students pursuing STEM careers. She later served as a biology professor. More promotions followed before taking on leadership roles at CT State Middlesex and then at Holyoke Community College in Massachusetts. “I am proud and inspired that I am the first woman to be the president at Capital,” she said, “and the first person of color to lead Tunxis. … In reflecting on my life — the twists and turns — I believe my life experiences have prepared me to serve in this role. I hope this role will give me the tools to address some of the barriers that prevent too many students from achieving success.”

EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 47

Emma Lawton ’16 has started a new position as a mental health specialist at Head Start in Jefferson County, Arvada, CO. She has been with Head Start for two years. Seth McCullock ’16 has started a new position as a data scientist at the Connecticut Insurance Department in Hartford. He has a Ph.D. from Purdue University in health communication. John Boisette ’17 was selected by Stony Brook University cross-country and track & field Head Coach Andy Ronan as the new assistant coach for the Stony Brook programs. Boisette comes to Stony Brook following a twoyear stint as head coach of the track & field and cross-country programs at West Virginia State University. Ohemeng Kyeremateng ’17 is Somerville’s (MA) newest parks and recreation director, responsible for the strategic leadership, management, and oversight of the city’s recreational programs, public spaces, departmental operations, and budget management for its portion of funds. After graduating from Eastern, he earned a master’s degree in business

administration from Fitchburg State University. Tia Lafrance Boyce ’18 has started a new position as an HR integration consultant at Hartford HealthCare. She has been with Hartford HealthCare since fall 2020. Briana Camp ’19 has started a new position as assurance director at CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen). She has been with CLA since 2021, previously serving as an assurance associate and assurance senior.

He has been working in IT since March 2020 with iTech Solutions, followed by Service Express. Samantha Hudak ’19 started a new position as director of education and advocacy marketing at the American Pet Products Association (APPA) in Stamford. She has been employed by APPA since 2019. Danielle Nadeau ’19 has started a new position as project coordinator at TPG DevCon in Cranston, RI. She has been with DevCon for more than three years.

Laina Rivers M’18, a third-grade teacher at Clover Street School in Windsor, was named the district’s 2026 Teacher of the Year for her strong commitment to fostering a supportive and empowering classroom environment. Brady Dennigan ’19 has started a new position as digital marketing executive at Coche Mobility Solutions Inc. Previously, he spent six years as a marketing manager with KemperSports. Brett Getz ’19 has started a new position as an IBM engineer at ProCern Technology Solutions in Broomfield, CO.

Griffin Michalek ’20 was named East Hartford Public Schools’ 2026 Teacher of the Year. The seventh-grade social studies teacher at Sunset Ridge Middle School emphasizes building strong relationships with students: “Building relationships is everything,” he said of his philosophy.

By Ed Osborn “Adversity is an opportunity to succeed,” says Steve Emt ’03, an author, motivational speaker, and Paralympic athlete. Emt knows all about adversity — a March 1995 car accident left him paralyzed below the waist. Today, he is a world-class wheelchair curling champion. When not competing on the national and international stage, Emt is a popular speaker on the national high school circuit. Earlier this year, Emt and his partner, Laura Dwyer, placed fourth at the 2026 Winter Paralympics in Cortina, Italy. Emt is the most decorated Paralympic curler in U.S. history. Since taking up curling in 2013, he has won 10 national championships and competed in eight world championships, finishing fourth in 2021. A star athlete at RHAM High School, Emt enrolled at the U.S. Military Academy Preparatory School in West Point, NY, in 1988. He eventually moved back to Connecticut after his father passed away, later enrolling at the University of Connecticut. Then, everything changed on a fateful night in March 1995, when, after a night of drinking, Emt crashed his vehicle. He woke up in the hospital to find that the accident left him paralyzed below the waist. Seeking to complete his bachelor’s degree, Emt enrolled at Eastern in 1998 and graduated in 2003 with a degree in psychology. “Eastern was a wonderful experience,” he said. “I had great professors. It was a perfect situation for me — I really appreciated the staff who provided accessibility services.” For 20 years, Emt taught at RHAM Middle School and also served as the high school’s basketball coach before turning his attention to a new passion — motivating young people. In 2024-25 alone, he spoke at more than 100 high schools nationwide, sharing his life experiences and offering a cautionary message about drunk driving and making good decisions. 48 • Fall 2026 • EASTERN

Steve Emt ’03 qualifies for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games during the Paralympic Trials in Sioux Falls, SD, in February 2026. Photo credit: Michael Woolheater/USA Curling.

Established in the 1980s, STEP/CAP is a pivotal summer bridge program for incoming first-year students from underrepresented backgrounds. For more than 40 years, the program’s supportive structure and mentorship have yielded more than 900 proud Eastern graduates. The STEP/CAP reunion brought together many accomplished alumni, from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee President Thomas Gibson ’96 to The Hartford Vice President Milton Jackson ’05 to Eastern’s own Associate Director of Human Resources LaShawn McBride ’93. The event also honored STEP/CAP architects and longtime program supporters Floyd Bagwell, Margaret Hebert, and Rick Hornung for their unwavering commitment to student success. The reunion was emceed by STEP/CAP alumni and Eastern Dean of Students Kemesha Wilmot ’05 and Mitchell College Professor Kevin Booker ’00. As alumni reconnected across generations over dinner and music, the gathering served as a reminder that STEP/CAP is more than an alternative admissions pathway — it is a lifelong support network. Marissa Starkel ’20 has started a new position as senior manager of communications at The Fund for American Studies (TFAS) in Washington, D.C. She has worked for TFAS for four years. Annie Audige ’21 has started a new position as an accounting coordinator at Coffee Distributing Co. in New Hyde Park, NY. She was previously an accounts payable specialist for three years at Wen-Parker Logistics. Chandler Benoit ’21 has started a new position as an investigator at the Connecticut State Department of Children and Families. He previously worked with Community Partners in Action and Judicial Marshal Services.

“As a proud STEP/CAP alumna, I have experienced firsthand the transformative impact this program can have on a student's life,” said Wilmot. “STEP/CAP provided me with a foundation of support, belonging, and confidence that helped shape my journey as a student and ultimately as a higher education leader. ... Seeing generations of alumni return to celebrate this legacy was a powerful reminder that STEP/CAP is more than a pathway to Eastern; it is a lifelong family, rooted in mentorship, resilience, and a shared commitment to helping others succeed.”

Read more: “Four Decades of Opportunity: STEP/ CAP's Lasting Impact”

Kyle Gilmore ’21 has started a new position as a Level 3 control account manager at Pratt & Whitney in East Hartford, where he has worked for the past three years. He has previously worked as an accountant at Pegasys Financial Services and as an assurance associate at CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen). Shaheera Khan ’21 graduated with an M.A. in international crime and justice from the John Jay College of Criminal Justice in 2023 and joined CACI International Inc. as a background investigator retained by the Defense, Counterintelligence, and Security Agency under the Department of Defense. She is currently based in Connecticut, but investigations take her across the Northeast.

More photos: STEP/CAP 40th Anniversary event

Jake Paciotti ’21, a science teacher at Coventry High School, received the 2026 Ralph and Ruth Yulo New Teacher Award. The statewide recognition, named after esteemed Eastern Professor Emeritus Ralph Yulo Jr. and presented by the Connecticut Science Teachers Association, honors new K-12 science teachers in Connecticut who encourage students to question and observe, improve instructional practices, and design interdisciplinary learning opportunities. Katey Guerin ’22 has started a new position as a nuclear medicine technologist at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital. She previously worked at Day Kimball in Putnam and Heywood Healthcare in Gardner, MA.

EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 49

By Noel Teter ’24 ETV News, Eastern’s live, student-run television news broadcast, has long been a staple of the University’s communication program. Professor Andrew Utterback, advisor for ETV (formerly TV22), hosted an alumni reunion in spring 2026, drawing a robust turnout of former collegiate news anchors and producers. Members of the group — both recent and longtime graduates — noted the evolution of the student-run production, which reflects developments in the broadcast news industry. “It was incredible to see how much ETV News has grown while still feeling so familiar at its core,” said Megan Saunders ’15, an Emmy-winning former journalist/producer and current media strategist at Look Left Marketing. “When I was a student, we were focused primarily on traditional broadcast production,” she said. “Now, students are navigating a streaming-first world in real time. … They have adapted to an industry that looks completely different than it did when I was in college.”

“A lot has changed in a year,” said Griffin Davis ’25, a former camera operator for ETV News and current editor for NBC Connecticut. “Back then … it was very structured — you had the Eastern block, the national block, weather, sports, and end of the show. Now, it’s like a variety show. … It’s more of a unique student vision, segment-to-segment, rather than a uniform identity of ETV.” Julia Florence ’22, communications manager for the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut, reflected on her formative years at ETV News, where she served as an anchor, reporter, producer, and E-board member. “First and foremost, it brought me out of my shell,” she said. “It encouraged me to get to know people on a deeper level, stay curious, and always look for unique angles and meaningful stories to capture.” Back row, left to right: Eric Larson ’98, Nicholas Walsh ’25, Kevin Gilbert ’03, John Zorzi ’11, Jeffry Langan ’11, Megan Saunders ’15, Nick Zeni '12, Anthony Giordano ’10, Griffin Davis ’25, Shawn McGuigan ’24, Cameron D'Arcy ’24, Chris Cruz ’25, Jared Tofil ’25. Front row, left to right: Griffen Mansfield ’21, Caroline Smith ’20, Julia Florence ’22, Professor Andrew Utterback, Daphne Beckers ’12.

Sara Johnson ’22 has started a new position as a senior financial analyst at AFC Industries, headquartered in Hamilton, OH. She began working at AFC as an accounting assistant in August 2022.

Finn Doherty ’24 has started a new position as a project engineer at Skanska in Boston. He previously worked at Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A. Inc. as an inside sales representative.

Josiah Gardner ’23 M’25 is a college admissions manager in the Barney School of Business at the University of Hartford. He earned a master’s degree in organizational management from Eastern in 2025.

Madison Glasgow ’24 has started a new position as an investment operations coordinator at USI Consulting Group in Glastonbury. Glasgow has been employed by USI since September 2024.

Itzel Martinez Garcia ’23 has started a new position as a marketing assistant at Cotton Incorporated in Cary, NC. She previously worked for three years at HEDCO as a marketing communications specialist. Noah Plantamuro ’23 was chosen by University of Hartford Head Baseball Coach Steve Malinowski as the infield coach and head coach of the developmental team. Plantamuro comes to the university after spending the past two seasons as an assistant coach with Keene State College.

50 • Fall 2026 • EASTERN

Fernando Jeronimo ’24 has started a new position in global shipping and logistics at VIKING Life-Saving Equipment in Denmark. While at Eastern, he was the ETV sports director for three years. Isabelle Lastrina ’24 has started a new position as a law clerk at Aeton Law Partners LLP in Middletown. She is a J.D. candidate at Quinnipiac University School of Law.

Kennedy Lawton ’24 has started a new position as a social and community associate at Charles & Keith Group in New York. Previously, she was an account manager at Links Drinks, LLC in Fairfield and a sales and marketing specialist at Regenerate and Restore in Colchester. Kyle Tinker-Palaia ’24 won a 2025 Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival regional design award. He earned the distinction for his work on the play Eurydice. Kiari Walston ’24 has started a new position as a U.S. PCG client onboarding coordinator at Fisher Investments in Tampa, FL. He had previously spent three years working for Dominion Energy in Waterford. Kaylee Drobish ’25 was hired as an assistant coach of the women’s lacrosse program at Connecticut College, as announced by Head Coach Lisa Voegely. Drobish joins the Camels after spending the past five years at Eastern as a member of both the field hockey and lacrosse programs.

Michaela Ellis ’25 has started a new position as a litigation paralegal at Messier, Massad, Burdick & Assoc. LLC in New London. As a student at Eastern, Ellis interned at the Connecticut General Assembly, and after graduating, she worked as a paralegal in the Connecticut Judicial Branch. Sean Ventresca ’25, a criminology major from Oakdale, has been an officer of the Willimantic Police Department since June 2025. Julia Weiland ’25 has started a new position as a behavior technician at Autism Behavioral Health, LLC in Danbury. During her final semester at Eastern, she was a student intern at Horizons. Hannah Jalowiec ’26 was sworn into the Wallingford Police Department on July 7, 2026. She graduated from Eastern with a double major in criminology and sociology.

Dan Whelton ’03 and Dan Fernandez ’14 (back row, first and second from left) stand with the cast of Circus Fire. Photo credit: Curtis Brown Photography.

Dan Fernandez ’14

By Ed Osborn The tragic Hartford circus fire of 1944 was the subject of a TheaterWorks play in spring 2026, with two Eastern alumni among the ensemble cast. Dan Whelton ’03 and Dan Fernandez ’14 each took on multiple roles in overlapping vignettes. The production explored the historic disaster of July 6, 1944, when a Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus tent packed with 7,000 spectators went up in flames in less than 10 minutes. This devastating inferno left a lasting impact on Hartford and hundreds of families, providing a powerful and solemn backdrop that set the stage for the actors’ performances. The Circus Fire performances took place on a theater-of-the-round set, a configuration that Whelton said “mirrors the big top tent of a circus.” He said this was the first time he had performed “in the round” and found it different and exciting. Fernandez added, “It’s one of the most immersive ways you can see a play.” Fernandez spent the first few years after graduating from Eastern appearing in local theater, before moving to Los Angeles in 2016 where he did voiceover work, including a Pepsi ad for the Super Bowl. Whelton has been a professional actor since graduating from Eastern, performing in regional theater throughout New England and select film and commercial assignments.

Political science alumna Grace Carlos ’23 represented Eastern at the Council of Public Liberal Arts Colleges’ (COPLAC) legislative breakfast in January 2026 in Washington, D.C. Currently working as a scheduler for the United States House of Representatives, Carlos spoke about her Eastern education and how the liberal arts have impacted her career. Carlos told legislators: “I truly realized the value of a public liberal arts education during one of my first semesters at Eastern. In an anthropology course on transnational, racial, and ethnic identity, I was learning about the culture and historical development of societies in African countries. Later that same day, in my global politics class, we examined conflicts between African nations rooted in ethnic and religious differences. Because of my earlier class, I was able to understand those conflicts not just from a political lens, but from a cultural and human one. That ability to connect ideas across disciplines is what defines a liberal arts education, and it’s what allowed me to understand not only what was happening, but why it mattered to the people involved. My ‘why’ for entering politics has always been about helping people. I’ve always had a heart for public service, whether it be serving on my local board of education, mentoring youth through my church, or traveling to advocate for young people across the country. Eastern gave me the tools to serve more effectively by teaching me to listen, to analyze context, and to understand perspectives different from my own. Studying political theory, history, and culture helped me recognize that you cannot serve people fully without first understanding where they come from. My story is only possible because institutions like Eastern Connecticut State University remain accessible and affordable. Public liberal arts institutions prepare graduates who think critically, serve compassionately, and lead with understanding. I am proud to be one of them.” EASTERN • Fall 2026 • 51

Ý 0FNPSJBN Andrea (Hansen) Clancy ’74 Manchester, CT – Sept. 7, 2025

Jennifer (Mahoney) McCarthy ’93 North Franklin, CT – June 10, 2026

Hazel (Merrell) Johnson ’51 Woodstock, CT – July 1, 2025

Mercedes Cook ’74 Baltic, CT – Jan. 4, 2026

Carol (Dumont) Cyr ’94 South Windsor, CT – Sept. 3, 2025

Walter McNally ’53 Brooklklyn, CT – Oct.t 21 21, 20 2025 25

Terrance Lomme ’74 Essex, CT – Marchh 3, 202 0266

Deanna Premo ’94 Plaiinfifieldld, CT – Aug. 4, 202 0255

Katherine (Inman) Nivison ’61 Tolland, CT – July 9, 2025

Catherine Savino ’74 Alexandria, VA – Aug. 1, 2025

Alexander Coriaty ’95 East Lyme, CT – July 17, 2026

Patricia (Hartl) Tomkunas ’62 Ponte Vedra Beach, FL – Jan. 12, 2026

Lubomyr Weselyj ’74 Windham, CT – Oct. 15, 2025

Christopher Hawkins ’97 Colchester, CT – May 4, 2026

Elizabeth (Paradise) Henseler ’64 Oakdale, CT – Jan. 5, 2026

Yvette (Desrosiers) Jacaruso ’75 Norwich, CT – May 12, 2026

Daryl Gross ’99 Hartford, CT – Oct. 3, 2025

Elizabeth (Kilmer) Cruickshank ’65 Fairview, NC – Dec. 13, 2025

Rene Charland ’76 Marlborough, CT – Oct. 4, 2025

Claudia Richards-Meade ’00 Vernon Rockville, CT – May 29, 2026

Carol (Newhall) Novosel ’65 Cromwell, CT – July 19, 2026

Kathryn Hamilton ’76 Danbury, NH – Nov. 19, 2025

Meghan Stratton ’00 Cheshire, CT – Dec. 30, 2025

Elizabeth (McConnell) Bundock ’67 Bristol, CT – July 13, 2026

Veronica (Scalzo) Kim ’78 Manchester, CT – May 4, 2026

David Engelson ’67 South Windsor, CT – Dec. 30, 2025

Kathleen (Hefter) Vincent ’78 Nashua, NH – March 4, 2026

Grace Cipriano ’03 Former Staff Mystic, CT – Nov. 15, 2025

Dixie Card ’68 Norfolk, CT – Nov. 17, 2025

Donald Fuller ’79 Oakville, CT – April 27, 2026

Robert Manwarren ’68 Hebron, CT – April 16, 2026

Stephen Grant ’79 Bristol, CT – Sept. 25, 2025

John Pantano ’68 Trinity, FL – Feb. 27, 2026

Ann Gruenberg ’80 Former Faculty Worcester, MA – Nov. 26, 2025

Blanche Muscatine ’44 New York, NY – Jan. 13, 2026

Denise Senatore ’69 South Windsor, CT – July 11, 2026 Donna (Sangster) Lott ’70 Clinton, CT – Nov. 5, 2025 Susan (Nezas) Petell ’71 Eastst Ham Ea ampt pton on, CT – Jan an. 1, 202 0266 Gail Pittman ’72 Bloomfield, CT – Oct. 13, 2025 John Armen ’73 Norwich, CT – Oct. 21, 2025

Joyce (Brown) Wells ’80 Berlin, CT – Oct. 26, 2025 Harlan Holcomb ’82 DDaggsboro, b DE – Oct. O t 14, 14 2025 Dean Scinto ’87 Vernonn Rockville, CT – Sept. 12, 2025 Susan (Stringfellow) Siegel ’88 Reed Ba Bank nk, NJ – Jul Julyy 3, 202 0266 Priscilla (Dean) Smith ’89 Zepphyrhills, FL – July 5, 2025 Ann Camillucci ’91 Wateerford, CT – March 24, 2026

Fall 2026 • EASTERN

Teresa Chiarenza ’04 Newington, CT – May 23, 2026 Brian Griffiths ’04 Former Faculty Virginia Beach, VA – Jan. 31, 2026 Katie Lewinstein ’09 Lebanon, CT – May 5, 2026 Joshua Judson '12 Manchester, CT - Sept. 6, 2026 Richard Mooney ’12 Groton, CT – Oct. 29, 2025

Mary Curran Former Faculty Hingham, MA – April 19, 2026 Colleen Durga Former Faculty Unca Un casv svilillele,, CT – Sep ept.t. 3, 20 2025 25 Hope Fitz Former Facultlty Woodstock, CT – Aug. 1, 2025 Terry Lennox Former Faculty Ivoryton, CT – Feb. 20, 2026 Weiping Liu Former Faculty Azusa, CA – Oct. 23, 2025 Gordon Marrotte Former Faculty Willimantic, CT – July 4, 2026 Ann Marie Orza Former Faculty Washington, DC – Sept. 16, 2025 C. Kevin Synnott Former Faculty Hampton, CT – Jan. 1, 2026 Joyce Wong Former Staff Mansfield Center, CT – Jan. 8, 2026 Gordon MacDonald Friend Willimantic, CT – Oct. 26, 2025

Michael Fanning ’14 Norw No rwelelelll,l, MA – Ju rw June ne 24,4, 202 025 025

David Nelson Friend Mansfield Center,, CT – Jan. 29,, 2026

Michael Adams Former Faculty South Windham, CT – Dec. 27,7, 2025

Robert Roveto Friend South Windsor, CT – May 10, 2026

Thomas Broffman Former Faculty Winnabow, NC – April 6, 20026

Kevin Tubridy Friend Pomfret, CT – Oct. 15, 2025

Big Numbers. Bright Future.

First-Year Students

1,146

First-Generation Students

54%

States Represented

Closest to Campus

.4 miles Willimantic, CT

A record-setting class of Warriors joined the Eastern community in 2026-27.

Furthest from Campus

Top 5 2,577 Majors Turlock, CA

Health Sciences Business Administration

Transfer Students

279

Average GPA

3.30

Student-Athletes

172

Transfer Students

279

Sets of Twins

Psychology Nursing Criminology

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Eastern’s 2026-27 Theatre Season Is Here! The Department of Communication, Film, and Theatre is thrilled to announce its 2026-27 mainstage schedule. Tickets & Bundles On Sale • Save up to 15% with a season bundle. Eastern Magazine Recipients • Save an extra 5% on bundles (code EasternMag5). • Save 15% on single tickets (code EasternMag15).

FALL 2026

To purchase tickets and bundles, scan the QR code or visit: https://t.ly/cft2627season

MOONCHILDREN SYZYGY April 22-25 & April 28-May 1, 2027

A play by Rick Elice based on the novel by Dave Barry & Ridley Pearson, music by Wayne Barker, directed by Jay Are Adams

A play by Michael Weller, directed by David Pellegrini

November 12-15, 2026

A collaborative project featuring the works off Alycia Bright Holland, Okon Hwang, Charliece Salters, Shatima Cruz, Zoe Czerenda, Chayanne McNeil & Zolah Daley

1984 PETER AND THE STARCATCHER

SPRING 2027

March 3-7, 2027

Based on the novel by George Orwell, adapted by Robert Owens, Wilton E. Hall Jr. & William A. Miles Jr., directed by Tim Golebiewski

October 8-14, 2026