THINK BIG
THINK
BIGGER
FREE COLLEGE CREDITS IMMERSIVE PROGRAMMING
We’re thinking bigger for future leaders. This year, JASWNE expanded opportunities for over 34,000 students, especially those from underserved communities, through career exploration programs like the Entrepreneurial Academy and Stock Market Challenge. These hands-on initiatives equip students with the skills needed to lead, innovate, and succeed in the real world.
We’re paving the way for high school students by partnering with Central Connecticut State University and the University of Saint Joseph to offer free college credits through JA’s semester-long courses. This initiative helps students save money, explore their interests, and gain valuable skills, bridging the gap between high school and college success.
BIGGER
SUBMARINE WORKFORCE ELEVATING A GENERATION
Through innovative partnerships and strategic collaborations, JASWNE is tackling the shortage of skilled workers in the submarine industry. With a $12.5M contract from the U.S.Department of Defense, we’re launching a K-12 shipbuilding program in Connecticut and Rhode Island to develop a skilled workforce for this critical industry.
This year, JASWNE took our efforts to the next level. The board voted unanimously to build a Capstone Facility that will house BizTown and Finance Park. This step reinforces our commitment to expanding financial literacy and workforce readiness programs, empowering students and supporting our educational partners.
How Can We Embolden Our Thinking to Amplify Our Impact?
We took a fresh look at our approach this year and asked ourselves more ambitious questions than ever. How can we better meet the needs of our stakeholders? What does career and work readiness look like post-pandemic? How can we bring JA programming to more students each year?
Jeremy Race President & CEO
Susan Jackson Managing Partner, KPMG Board Chair
This reflection led us to redefine what impact means for us moving forward. As a result, we have refocused our strategy, developing new programming and pathways that directly address the evolving needs of our students, educators, and partners. The bold actions we've taken have yielded dramatic results, which are highlighted in this report.
We're excited to share our new and expanded immersive programming, including the inaugural Stock Market Challenge and Women in Bio events. We've also increased the number of job shadows, innovation challenges, and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Additionally, we've secured groundbreaking partnerships with Central Connecticut State University and University of Saint Joseph that will allow high school students across Connecticut to earn free college credits through JA courses. This is a significant step forward in our commitment to providing students with the equity and access they need to succeed.
And, in a historic achievement, we've secured the largest federal government contract in JA history. The new JA Maritime program, a 5-year partnership with the US Department of Defense’s Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) program, will inspire a new generation of K-12 students’ interest in submarine manufacturing and further solidify our position as a leader in STEM education.
Finally, we're thrilled to announce that our board has unanimously supported the pursuit of a Capstone Facility (a brick and mortar building that will bring JA’s powerful mission to 8,000 to 10,000 students each year starting in 2026), and that more than 10 schools are set to pilot the JA BizTown and Finance Park curricula in 2024-2025.
We've never had a bolder or bigger year, and we're excited to continue our momentum. Thank you for your support. Without you, none of this would be possible.
How Can We Create More Equity & Access to Higher Education & Rewarding Careers?
EMPOWERING THE FUTURE
At Junior Achievement of Southwest New England (JASWNE), we serve more than 34,000 students, including thousands of students from economically disadvantaged communities, who face higher risks of financial instability and debt.
This year, we are proud to highlight the remarkable achievements of our learning experiences. When building a forever home, you begin with a strong foundation. Junior Achievement semester-long programs have long been a staple among high school curricula, and we are unique in offering the JA Company Program as the guideline for our Entrepreneurial Academies. The success of the academies and schools enrolled in semester-long programming allowed JASWNE to create a new channel for students to reach their fullest potential. Building upon the foundation, we are equally proud to announce two pioneering educational partnerships that will allow high school students across Connecticut to earn college credits through JA courses.
ENTREPRENEURIAL ACADEMY
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Our 15-week educational program provides training, resources, and support for students interested in starting and growing their own businesses. The goal of the entrepreneurial academy is to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to successfully launch and manage a new venture. From pitching ideas and selling products to tackling real-world challenges like supply chain issues, students honed their entrepreneurial abilities and showcased impressive adaptability. Highlights include networking opportunities with industry leaders from Stanley Black & Decker, Pratt & Whitney, and The Hartford, as well as participation in the Innovation Challenge Finale at the University of Hartford. Industry professionals generously volunteered their time several times during the 15 weeks to serve as board members, holding student companies accountable and requiring them to answer board questions.
The significance of the Entrepreneurial Academy extends beyond individual success; it embodies JASWNE’s commitment to cultivating the next generation of leaders through handson experience in entrepreneurship. By integrating practical business skills with mentorship and real-world applications, the Academy not only fuels students’ passion for innovation but also aligns seamlessly with JASWNE’s entrepreneurship pillar, preparing students for future leadership roles and entrepreneurial endeavors.
Janaai John, of our Hartford Entrepreneurial Academy, giving her speech during the company’s elections for their leadership positions.
The Hartford Entrepreneurial Academy students campaigning for top positions within their company.
WATCH: INSPIRING A THRIVING CAREER
Dynamic Duo
PEDRO PAGAN JR. & JASMIN GARCIA
Pedro and Jasmin, spirited juniors at Crosby Early College High School in Waterbury, shone brightly in last year’s Entrepreneurial Academy with The Hartford. As integral leaders of their team, their collaboration and entrepreneurial flair propelled their company, which sold versatile scented sachets, to new heights.
Jasmin’s inspiring leadership as Vice President and Pedro’s financial acumen kept their peers engaged and accountable, culminating in an impressive bulk order of 200+ sachets for the soccer team. Their commitment to networking and hands-on selling reflects their drive to embrace the entrepreneurial mindset, making them true role models for their classmates!
Jasmin & Pedro have collaborated both in and out of school in a variety of extra curricular experiences during their high school tenure.
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STOCK MARKET CHALLENGE
The inaugural JA Stock Market Challenge on March 12, 2024 was a tremendous success, bringing together over 130 students from Enfield High School for a dynamic day of stock trading. With $500,000 in mock capital, student teams navigated a simulated stock market, buying and selling shares in fictitious companies amid the fast-paced, volatile environment. Their preparation through in school, teacherled JA Take Stock in Your Future sessions was evident, as four Enfield teams excelled nationally in the Spring Stock Market Challenge. The event was made possible by the invaluable support of M&T Bank and numerous other sponsors and volunteers, who played crucial roles as mentors, traders, and guides.
“ “
This experience is something that we can apply to our future investment strategies throughout our lives. It made learning relevant and fun, and we realized just how important timing plays in the stock market. I work after school and on the weekends, and my JA experience taught me a lot about finances, empowering me to make informed decisions about spending, saving, and investing my own money.
- Kate M., Enfield High School
This exciting challenge underscores the growing importance of financial knowledge and preparation, especially in light of the recent financial literacy laws passed in Connecticut. The Governor’s financial literacy mandate emphasizes the need for comprehensive financial education, and is supported by the objectives of JA’s Stock Market Challenge. By offering students a hands-on experience in stock trading and financial management, this event not only reinforces classroom learning but prepares students to make informed financial decisions, reflecting the state’s commitment to enhancing financial literacy for future generations. We are incredibly grateful to M&T Bank as the presenting sponsor of the Stock Market Challenge, whose generous support played a key role in making this impactful event possible.
Celebrity emcees Caitlin Burchill and Brian Shactman leading students through the stock market simulation.
WOMEN IN BIO
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MORE
The JASWNE & Young Women in Bio (YWIB) Symposium on Careers in STEM, held on November 9, 2023, at Southern Connecticut State University, was an inaugural event for JASWNE and 150 students from five local high schools, highlighting diverse career paths in the STEM field. The symposium, aimed at inspiring and empowering greater gender diversity in STEM, featured engaging breakout sessions on topics ranging from radiology and DNA extraction to astronomy and protein work. Keynote speaker Jodie Gillon, CEO & President at BioCT, and contributions from organizations like Yale New Haven Health and Arvinas highlighted the myriad opportunities available in the New Haven area. This event not only illuminated potential career options but also underscored the critical importance of fostering a diverse and inclusive STEM workforce.
STUDENTS SERVED
“I
have been a School Counselor in New Haven for 23 years and this was the best, most worthwhile event I have brought my students to. One of my biggest goals for this year is to broaden our career program. I really want to give the students more knowledge of the choices in careers with both speakers, places (training programs) for the students to learn a trade or career, and experiential activities like this one. I would love to collaborate more with JA and add to our students’ experiences.
-Brigid
H., Counselor, Cooperative Arts & Humanities Magnet High School
Members of the Yale New Haven Health Radiology Department shared with students the importance of being able to correctly identify and locate major bones, highlighting this skill as crucial for jobs in this career pathway.
JOB SHADOWS
JASWNE provides students with incomparable opportunities to explore professional work environments through engaging professional site visit experiences and career walks. This year, we expanded these learning experiences to include:
13
MIDDLE
SCHOOL EXPERIENCES
THAT ENGAGED 477 STUDENTS FOR
1,431 HOURS
HOST COMPANIES
• Alkegen
• Allied Printing
• Amenta Emma
• Ares Management
• Asnuntuck Community College –Manufacturing & Healthcare Depts.
• AXA XL
• Boost Bowls
• Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey
• Food 4 Health
• CESI: Center for Education, Simulation and Innovation at Hartford Hospital
• Charles Schwab
• Cheshire Equestrian Center
• Cheshire Town Hall
• CLA
• Comcast
6,186 HOURS
64 HIGH SCHOOL EXPERIENCES THAT ENGAGED 998 STUDENTS IN OF HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE
These job shadows and career walks introduced students to more than 40 different career paths and also prepared them with the skills and knowledge needed to research opportunities and excell in their future.
TEENS EXPLORING CAREER OPTIONS AT EVERSOURE
JA and the Eversource volunteers gave me a motivational boost and courage to keep on elevating in my trade, which is Electrical. The job shadow was the perfect opportunity for me. It really got me thinking outside the box and exploring all of the different options that are available to me within this field and area of expertise.
- Cal W., A.I. Prince Technical High School
• CT Science Center
• Darter Specialties
• Eversource
• Fathom
• Global Atlantic
• Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce
• Hoffman
• IRIS Photography
• Johnson Brunetti
• Marriott Downtown Hartford
• Newman Architects
• Omni Hotel @ Yale
• Phoenix
• Pickard Chilton
• Regional Water Authority
• RTX
• Shake Shack
• State of CT Capitol
• The Bushnell
• The Next Chapter
“
• Triumph
• Wadsworth Atheneum
• WTNH
• Yard Goats
• Wepco Plastics
INNOVATION CHALLENGE
Through the JA Be Entrepreneurial curriculum, students learn the essential components of a practical business plan and are encouraged to launch an entrepreneurial venture while still in high school. They explore key topics such as advertising, competitive advantages, financing, marketing, and product development.
STUDENTS WIN NATIONAL INNOVATION CHALLENGES
“TECH 4 SUSTAINABLE FUTURE CHALLENGE
“Junior Achievement’s impactful educational initiatives have been a cornerstone of my academic journey. The JA Innovation Challenge allowed me to collaborate with peers to develop a business pitch for an e-waste management firm, tackling a pressing issue with social impact. Competing and placing 3rd in Connecticut, and seeing other teams from Connecticut succeed nationally, was a testament to the value and innovation JA brings to its programs.”
- Jaiden B., New Britain High School
As part of the challenge, students were tasked with designing a product focused on sustainability. In teams, they developed and pitched their ideas to a panel of judges, with prizes awarded to the top-scoring teams. In 2023-2024, JASWNE partnered with The University of Hartford, Central Connecticut State University, Prudential, Smith Brothers, and Capgemini / The Hartford to host Innovation Challenges.
“
Jaiden B. presenting his innovative idea at The Hartford.
Innovative Partnerships Create Opportunities for Free College Credits
JASWNE is proud to announce two pioneering educational partnerships that will allow high school students across Connecticut to earn college credits through JA courses. Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) and University of Saint Joseph (USJ) have both joined forces with JA to offer this unique opportunity.
Through this collaboration, students will have the chance to earn academic credits for a range of JA courses. This initiative underscores the commitment of higher education institutions to enhance equitable educational opportunities, bridge the gap between high school and college, and prepare students for future success by integrating rigorous academic coursework with practical, real-world experience.
Central Connecticut State University
University of Saint Joseph
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Meeting the National Need for a Next-Generation Submarine Workforce
In 2023-24, Junior Achievement of Southwest New England (JASWNE) took bold steps to address the national shortage of skilled workers in the submarine industry. With JASWNE leading the charge, Junior Achievement USA (JA) secured a $12.5 million contract to implement JA Maritime; an initiative in support of the National Imperative for Industrial Skills as part of the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) Program.
The U.S. submarine industrial base is facing a significant workforce challenge, with tens of thousands of unfilled positions crucial for national security and economic stability. In Connecticut, 87% of manufacturers struggle to find skilled employees, impacting growth. Congressman Joe Courtney has been a strong advocate for education and economic development in Connecticut and a key supporter of this initiative. Representative Courtney believes that JA programming will play a crucial role in shifting the understanding that manufacturing jobs are vital for supporting families.
Starting in the 2024-2025 school year, JA will pilot a K-12 program in Connecticut and Rhode Island focused on shipbuilding and related careers. This partnership is aimed to achieve the following over the next 5 years:
• Create a pipeline of thousands of K-12 students interested in submarine manufacturing.
• Foster excitement about manufacturing careers and educate students on necessary training and job opportunities.
• Enhance career satisfaction and retention among current and future workers.
• Increase awareness of salary, benefits, and career progression in submarine manufacturing.
• Form an Industrial Advisory Board to strengthen educational partnerships and promote shipbuilding training.
Our efforts will lay a strong foundation for future workforce development, equipping students with the knowledge and inspiration needed to pursue fulfilling careers in this crucial field. JASWNE remains committed to bridging the skills gap and supporting the growth of the submarine industry through continued educational innovation and community engagement.
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Congressman Joe Courtney speaking in front of the USS Rickover during its commissioning ceremony.
Students immersed in hands on metrology experiences.
Opportunity Creates a World of Possibilities
We proudly awarded three scholarships this year, continuing our commitment to supporting students who exemplify leadership, academic excellence, and community involvement. These scholarships celebrate our belief in the transformative power of education and its role in shaping the future leaders of our community.
The JA of SWNE Scholarship was awarded to Hailey Washington, a senior who demonstrated exceptional leadership and academic achievement through their active participation in Junior Achievement programs.
JA Involvement: JA Innovation Challenge and Career Connections for Young Women programs.
Future Plans: Attending Trinity College to study psychology and neuroscience.
The Elaine Dwyer Scholarship recognized Shesh Budhabhatti, whose involvement in the JA Company Program and entrepreneurial endeavors showcased outstanding leadership and innovative spirit.
JA Involvement: SBD Entrepreneurial Academy, KPMG Summer 2023.
Future Plans: Attending Northeastern University to study Cybersecurity & Business Administration.
The Karl Flemke Memorial Scholarship honored Stylz Mitchell, a student-athlete who balanced varsity sports with stellar performance in Junior Achievement programs, reflecting remarkable leadership and teamwork.
JA Involvement: Participated in multiple JA workshops through Ball Headz, with a focus on financial literacy.
Future Plans: Attending Central Connecticut State University to study financial management.
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How Does an Investment in JA Fund our Expansion & Empower our Mission?
$2.4
MILLION RAISED LAST YEAR
The success of Junior Achievement of Southwest New England (JASWNE) hinges on the unwavering support of our corporate partners, foundation grants, individual donors, and volunteers. Their collective generosity fuels our mission, enabling us to deliver transformative programming to tens of thousands of students on an annual basis. Annual contributions are crucial for making our educational initiatives possible, and our dedicated volunteers invest their time to ensure each student receives the invaluable lessons that shape their futures. Together, these contributions forge a powerful partnership that drives our commitment to inspiring and preparing the next generation for success.
JOIN US REQUEST A PROGRAM
VOLUNTEERS HOURS SERVED
1,878 116,886 1,311 34,946
UNIQUE DONORS STUDENTS SERVED
PARTNERS IN ACHIEVEMENT (PIA)
We look back with gratitude at our 21st Annual Partners in Achievement Breakfast, which drew over 450 attendees and raised over $250,000. The impactful stories shared by student speakers from Enfield, Wethersfield, and beyond truly illustrated the transformative power of JA’s learning experiences, adding a personal touch to our celebration of collective achievement. We are grateful to acknowledge JP Morgan Chase as the title sponsor and Arch Insurance as the Platinum sponsor, whose generous support empowers young people to succeed in their future careers.
SPECIAL EVENTS
In 2023-24, our special events shone brightly, emphasizing the crucial role fundraising has in driving Junior Achievement’s mission forward.
We celebrate and extend our deepest gratitude to the JASWNE board of directors, event committee leadership, our dedicated sponsors and individual donors. The proceeds from these events have been instrumental in bringing JA learning experiences to thousands of students across Connecticut, inspiring them to reach their full potential and shaping their futures.
Students from Elizabeth Green Elementary in Newington, along with Board Chair Sue Jackson, greeted guests at the Junior Achievement Partners in Achievement Breakfast in May.
Bella Chen, a third grader from Elizabeth Green Elementary School, served as the emcee for the JA Partners in Achievement Breakfast, showcasing her leadership skills and confidence in front of a large audience.
HALL OF FAME
The JA Business Hall of Fame honors individuals from the Hartford and New Haven regions who have made significant business and community contributions. We celebrate the induction of six outstanding individuals to the JA Business Hall of Fame:
HALL OF FAME HONOREES:
Samuel Gray, Jr.
President & CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford 2024 Community Leadership Award
Karen DuBois-Walton
President, Elm City Communities 2024 Spirit of Hope Award
Thomas Sansone
Partner, Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey 2024 Hall of Fame Laureate
Dr. Reid Waldman Founder, VeraDermics 2024 Entrepreneur Award
Bill Griffeth Retired CNBC Anchor Business Journalist, Author 2024 Hall of Fame Laureate
Don Allan, Jr.
President & CEO, Stanley Black & Decker 2024 Hall of Fame Laureate
We sincerely appreciate Stanley Black & Decker as the presenting sponsor, along with Travelers and Webster Bank as Diamond sponsors, whose invaluable support is helping to inspire and equip the next generation of leaders.
The six honorees of the 2024 Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame gather before their induction with Jeremy Race, JASWNE President and CEO, celebrated for their outstanding leadership, business success, and community impact.
GOLF CLASSIC
As we reflect on the success of last year’s JA Golf Classic Tournament, we celebrate a remarkable achievement that underscores its cherished 25-year tradition. The event raised over $160,000 for Junior Achievement programming, providing vital support to youth across Connecticut. We eagerly anticipate the next tournament, scheduled for June 2, 2025, as we continue to advance financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and work readiness for our students. We are deeply thankful to Stanley Black & Decker as the presenting sponsor, Olsen Construction as the apparel and cart sponsor, and Standard Builders as the super tee sponsor, for their generous support in driving the success of this event and empowering our mission.
OFFICE WARRIORS
We celebrate the enthusiasm and camaraderie that made JA Office Warriors a standout success. Not only did we raise $38,500, it was truly inspiring to see the 14 participating teams bring their best, demonstrating both team spirit and support for Junior Achievement of Southwest New England. The real MVPs of the Office Warriors event were Stanley Black & Decker as the Gold Medal Sponsor, Nutmeg State Financial Credit Union as the Silver Medal Sponsor, and Voya as the Bronze Medal Sponsor, whose outstanding support made the event a resounding success.
BOWL-A-THON
Over 450 employees from The Hartford came together to hit the lanes and raised over $80,000 to support JA students directly. In addition to competing for the highest score, bowlers also vied for the top fundraiser and team spirit awards, all while showcasing The Hartford volunteers’ remarkable enthusiasm and dedication.Our heartfelt thanks go out to everyone who participated and supported this fantastic cause.
Participants celebrated in their team t-shirts, showcasing their spirit after the awards ceremony at the fifth annual JA Office Warriors event in June.
Employees from Keegan Werlin celebrate a fantastic shot at the JA Golf Classic!
Bowlers show off their trophies at The Hartford’s Bowl-a-thon, enjoying a fun-filled day of friendly competition and camaraderie.
Board of Directors
NEW HAVEN
Jonathan Adongo* Associate Professor Economics
Tagliatela School of Business and Leadership Albertus Magnus College
Bo Bradstreet* Vice President Bohan & Bradstreet
Gregg Burton Partner
Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP
Anthony Castellon* Senior Vice President Citizens Bank
Robert Coro Partner CBIZ
William Creaser Senior Vice President Northeast Middle Markets Chase
Jodie Driscoll Managing Partner Murtha Cullina
Stephen Fordyce, CFP Founder and Managing Partner Cental Wealth Advisory
Michelle Hawes
Vice President, Business BankingMarket Manager CitizensBank
G. Christopher Heyl Vice President of Operations CIDRA Corporate Services
Patrick Kampermann Director of Finance Roto Frank of America, Inc.
Kevin Kiss Senior Manager, Assurance Services RSM US LLP
Donna Lecky CFO & Co-Founder HealthVenture
Brian Levine, Chair Bank of America SVP, Commercial Banking Senior Relationship Manager
Nicholas Lombardi President & CEO OneSource Companies
Joseph LoPresti
Regional Vice President, Human Resources ImperialDade
MEET THE BOARD
* = Resigned or board term ended
Kolé Mascoll Vice President-Commercial Banker
JP Morgan Chase
Samuel McKnight Retired AT&T Director
Camille Murphy Founder and Managing Director Murphy & Company CPA’s, LLP
Matt O’Connor Professor of Finance School of Business Quinnipiac University
William Rice Assistant Executive Director of Schools & Curriculum Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES)
Nestor Rubiano Branch Manager Guilford Savings Bank (GSB)
Brian Walker President Walker Training & Consulting
Board of Directors
HARTFORD
Donald Allan, Jr.
President & Chief Executive Officer
Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.
Francine Austin
Owner
Francine’s Salon & Day Spa
Thomas Bailer Principal Executive Support Services, LLC
Adele Balboni
Total Rewards Leader, Human Resources
ConnectiCare, Inc.
Steven Brodrick Founder & CEO Horizon Five
Jay Buth Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer Eversource Energy
Matthew Cambi Principal PwC
Trevon Canada CFO/Head of Data and Analytics, MLC
The Hartford
Lawrence Carboni Partner Whittlesey PC
Brian Carillon VP, District Manager Centreville Bank
Pamela Carpenter
Retired - Chief Operating Officer, National Accounts, Travelers
Jennifer Castro Smithberger
Associate Director, U.S. Corporate Affairs
Biogen
Jonathan Collett Partner
CohnReznick
Dr. Carmen Cotei, PhD
Associate Dean and Professor of Finance University of Hartford
Joseph DeSantis Partner Deloitte LLP
Kathleen Dion Partner
Robinson & Cole LLP
Kevin Dolan
Senior Vice President Commercial Banking Group Manager M&T Bank
Anne Evans CEO
Universal Strategies Limited
Jack Fazzino
State Representative – 83rd House District
State of CT House of Representatives
David Firstenberg
Global Chief Underwriting Officer & SVP Mgmt
Hartford Steam Boiler Inspection and Insurance Company
Paul Foody VP, Strategic Business Solutions Waste Management
MEET THE BOARD
Michelle Galeota Assistant Principal East Hartford High School
Bill Glueck EVP of Partnership & Platform Integrations ARC Fertility
Jason Gutcheon* Partner
Professional Business Insurers
John Guy Jr. Retired, EVP, Director of Business Banking Webster Bank
G. Christopher Heyl Vice President of Operations CiDRA Corporate Services
Terrell Hill, PhD
Superintendent Windsor Public Schools
Matthew Hoffman President-Hoffman East Hoffman Auto
Claude Howard Vice president, Workers Compensation Claim Travelers
Susan Jackson, Chair Office Managing Partner KPMG LLP
Patricia King
Supervisor of Career and Technical Education
Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS)
Dawn Lazarus Insurance Advisor
Lindberg & Ripple
Donna Lecky CFO & Co-Founder HealthVenture
Brian Levine SVP, Commercial Banking Senior Relationship Manager Bank of America
Celia Lofink Faculty and Assitant Dean of Career Ready Programs at BarneySchool of Business University of Harford
David Louden Founder & Lead Strategist LoudenClear LLC
Karmela Malone, Secretary SVP, Claims Solutions The Hartford
Susan Martinelli, Treasurer Hartford Office Leader Partner, Assurance Services RSM US LLP
Kenneth McGovern President KMR Executive Search, LLC
Samuel McKnight Retired AT&T
Adam McLaughlin
SVP Senior Relationship Manager Middle Market Commercial Banking Webster Bank
Beth Frankel Merenstein, PhD
Associate Vice President for Community Engagement Executive Director for CPPSR Central Connecticut State University
Mary Morgan Vice President, Talent Acquisition Hartford Healthcare
Mark Nisbett President & CEO People, Places & Spaces
Russell Outler FVP, MyBanker Team Leader Berkshire Bank
Emily Paskind Senior Account Manager Hartford Business Journal
Michael Pelletier
Managing Partner, Microsoft Services
CliftonLarsonAllen LLP
Thomas Phillips
Executive Principal TL Phillips Consulting Services
William Piotrowski
Senior Vice President, General Counsel Alkegen
Paru Puttanna SVP, Senior Executive Voya Financial
Joseph Radziewicz Vice President – Corporate Controller
Stanley Black & Decker
Sean Riegler Office Managing Partner Ernst & Young
Kelly Rome* Vice President of Product Management Empower
Anthony Salerno Vice President of Investor Relations CVS Health
Pamela Sawyer Outreach and Legislative Assistant Access Health CT
Robb Schilberg
Vice President of Procurement
Prime Materials Recovery, Inc.
Wendy Simoncelli
Client Executive, Insurance Industry
IBM
Tina St. Pierre Partner and COO
Ares Management
PJ Titone
Vice President & GMAerostructures
Collins Aerospace
Dawne Ware
Senior Vice President & Deputy CFO
Arch Insurance Group
Steve Weir
State Representative – 55th House District State of CT House of Representatives
Edward Whittemore* Retired – Partner Murtha Cullina LLP
Susan Winkler
Executive Director, Connecticut Insurance and Financial Services (CT IFS)
Vice President, MetroHartford Alliance
Justin Wolfanger* President Systems, Electronics & Controls
Trumph Egine Control Systems
Kelly Young
Executive Director, Strategic Programs
Patt & Whitney BOARD
* = Resigned or board term ended
Board of Directors
EMERITUS MEMBERS
Jill M. Albertelli
President, Military Engines Division Pratt & Whitney
Gregory Alcorn Vice President, Global Partnerships Carrier
James Bolduc Retired Chief Financial Officer
Connecticut Resources Recovery Authority
Edward Bradstreet President Bohan & Bradstreet
Christine Bromberg Partner Robinson & Cole LLP
Larry Brown Managing Partner Horton International LLC
Howard Carver Retired Managing Partner Ernst & Young LLP
Chris Fuselier Retired GE Consumer Industrial
David Keiser
Retired President and COO, Director Alexion Pharmaceuticals
Margaret Lawson Retired
The Hartford Steam Boiler Inspection and Insurance Co.
Current Staff
Julie Armstrong Director of Education
Abigale Connor Creative Marketing and Communications Manager
Lisa Cowell
Senior Education Manager, K-8 and Capstone Curriculum
Nicole Diorio Chief of Staff
Erica Gilroy Office Manager/ Executive Assistant
Aimee Heckman Education Manager, Entrepreneurial Programs
Joshua Kelly Senior Education Manager, Career Readiness Programs
Melinda Kester Special Events Manager
Donna Koch Development Assistant
Susan Lecki Education Manager
MEET THE BOARD
Brendan Lynch Retired, President Pension Operations Travelers Annuity
Hugh Manke Partner-New Haven Office Updike, Kelly & Spellacy, PC
Raymond Sprague Principal Napatree Advisors
Lindsley Wellman President Wellman Consulting Group
Diane Wishnafski Retired Executive Vice President NewAlliance Bank
MEET THE STAFF
Jeremy Race President & CEO
Kate Tedford Director of Philanthropy
Amanda Teti Senior Grants Coordinator
Susan Wagemaker Education Manager, Financial Literacy Programs
Katie Waters Education Assistant
What Would It Take To Elevate A Generation?
Junior Achievement of Southwest New England (JASWNE) has been dedicated to serving our region’s young people for over 73 years. Still, there is more work to be done. Connecticut remains one of the least financially literate states in the U.S., ranking eighth from the bottom. Students in economically disadvantaged communities face higher risks of financial instability and debt, making early intervention essential. Many of these students are key financial advisors for their families, highlighting the urgent need for robust financial and career skills.
This year, we asked ourselves what would it take to address the pressing need for financial literacy and workforce readiness in Connecticut. How can we better support our partners and stakeholders? And, how does that support differ in today’s world?
As we strive to elevate a generation and create a meaningful impact in Connecticut, we harness our specialized expertise in career readiness, financial literacy, and entrepreneurial programming. By partnering with and listening to our stakeholders, educators, volunteers, donors, corporations, and the community—we ensure that our efforts are both targeted and effective. Now more than ever, our students need this collective support.
The challenges are significant:
Economic Disparities:
Free/Reduced Meals: 42.4% of students qualify; in JASWNE-served cities, rates are even higher, with Hartford at 78.9%.
Financial Literacy:
Low state ranking shows a gap in essential money management skills.
Career Readiness:
Only 44.3% of high school juniors and seniors meet readiness benchmarks, with JASWNE-served cities often falling below this average.
Demographic Challenges:
Over half (52.5%) of Connecticut students are historically marginalized, necessitating targeted support.
WATCH: JA OF GEORGIA DISCOVERY CENTER
Spotlight on Progress
To address these challenges, JASWNE began exploring the idea of a Capstone Facility, inspired by the proven success of similar programs in other regions. Designed to revolutionize student preparation for college, careers, and financial success, the facility will house two key programs: JA BizTown and JA Finance Park. JA BizTown will foster financial responsibility, community awareness, and professional aspirations in students from fourth to sixth grade through business management and navigating economic challenges. JA Finance Park will build budget management, decisionmaking skills, and financial independence in middle and high school students by simulating real-life situations.
The Capstone Facility will allow JASWNE to reach an additional 8,000–10,000 students annually. The immersive programming will offer 12–17 hours with students, providing deeper learning in financial literacy and career readiness through tutorials and hands-on experience. This is 3.5 times more than a typical JA program!
On March 4, 2024, JASWNE hosted 41 educators for a field trip to a Capstone facility in Washington, D.C., underscoring the need for enhanced financial literacy and workforce readiness. With over 10 schools set to pilot the BizTown and Finance Park curricula in the 2024–25 school year, demand is high. The Board’s recent unanimous decision to move forward with the facility reinforces our commitment to expanding these vital programs.
JASWNE remains dedicated to thinking big and finding innovative solutions for financial literacy and career readiness. Together, we can build economic resilience and a brighter future for Connecticut’s students.
WATCH: JASWNE VISIT TO DC
JASWNE is committed to addressing these challenges through impactful programs that have shown substantial results:
Income Mobility:
JA alumni from low-income backgrounds see significant income growth.
Career Insights:
88% explore new career paths due to their JA experience.
Educational Impact:
84% attribute their pursuit of postsecondary education to JA.
Motivation and Belief:
90% believe JA was crucial in helping them achieve their goals.
Our approach blends classroom instruction with hands-on experiences, narrowing the achievement gap by 20% and leading to:
Career Pathways:
32% higher likelihood of pursuing STEM careers.
Learning Effectiveness:
70% of teachers report significant positive impacts on student engagement.
Students participating in the Finance Park simulated experience.
Students participating in the BizTown simulated experience.
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2025 Events
Business Hall of Fame
Tuesday, April 1, 2025
Hartford Marriott Downtown, Hartford, CT
Partners in Achievement Breakfast
Thursday, May 15, 2025
Hartford Marriott Downtown, Hartford, CT
Golf Classic
Monday, June 2, 2025
Tumble Brook Country Club, Bloomfield, CT
Office Warriors
June 2025
Central Connecticut
Host a Bowlathon!
The JA Bowl-a-thon is a fun, team-building event held throughout the year, bringing local businesses together for networking while supporting Junior Achievement. Participants raise funds to empower young people with essential skills for success, making it a meaningful way to give back.
SEE OUR EVENTS
Entrepreneurial Academy students selling their product at the Hall of Fame.
Players lining up in their golf carts to kick off the JA Golf Classic.
