Scholarship season at the NCC Foundation officially begins on April 1st. We will be providing valuable application support for students pursuing their academic goals in the weeks leading up to and during the application process. Don't miss out on these opportunities! For full details, eligibility requirements, and application deadlines, visit ncc-foundation.org/scholarships.
IN THE COMMUNITY
A STANDING OVATION FOR COMMUNITY SUPPORT: NCCF PARTNERS WITH NORWALK SYMPHONY AND NEW PARADIGM THEATRE
Music, theater, and community spirit came together in a powerful way as the Norwalk Symphony Orchestra and New Paradigm Theatre took the stage for their vibrant performances of Oklahoma! But beyond the stage, this event had a deeper purpose giving back. As the nonprofit partner for this production, the Norwalk Community College Foundation (NCCF) was honored to support the CT State Norwalk Food Pantry, which provides critical assistance to students facing food insecurity
With over 4,000 student visits to the pantry last semester alone, the need is clear The Norwalk Symphony and New Paradigm Theatre recognized this challenge and encouraged audiences to bring nonperishable food donations, helping to stock the pantry’s shelves while enjoying a night of spectacular performances Their generosity along with that of our community members demonstrates the power of the arts to inspire action and make a substantial difference
"We are proud to partner with organizations that not only enrich our cultural landscape but also share our commitment to student success," said Nancy von Euler, President and CEO of the NCC Foundation.
The CT State Norwalk Food Pantry continues to be a vital resource, and ongoing support is essential. If you’d like to learn more about how you can contribute, visit ncc-foundation.org or explore more about our partners at Norwalk Symphony and CT State Norwalk Food Pantry.
Thank you to the Norwalk Symphony, New Paradigm Theatre, and all who attended and donated—your generosity is music to our ears!
AROUND CAMPUS
NCC FOUNDATION STAFF MAKING CONNECTIONS!
Our dedicated NCC Foundation staff continues to make a lasting impact both on campus and in the community. From supporting student success to strengthening community connections, here’s a look at some recent moments where we came together to learn, give back, and create new opportunities!
A Look Inside the SoFA Digital Studios
Thanks to donor support, students are able to use professional tools to build their creative careers.
On Campus: Connecting at the Club & Resource Fair
The Club & Resource Fair connected students with campus resources, including the NCC Foundation!
Supporting Student Well-Being
The CT State Norwalk Food Pantry continues to serve students in need, with over 4,000 visits last semester.
In the Classrooms: Students Taking Marketing Beyond the Textbook
Marketing students are using the NCC Foundation as a test client, creating TikTok videos, posters, and research to promote scholarships and gain hands-on experience.
Reconnecting with Our Alumni: Michael P. Cichowicz’s Journey from NCC to the Kansas Supreme Court
Michael P. Cichowicz’s journey from Norwalk Community College (now CT State Norwalk) to the Kansas Supreme Court Office of Judicial Administration is a testament to determination, service, and lifelong learning.
At NCC, Cichowicz earned multiple scholarships, took part in servicelearning projects, and was an active Phi Theta Kappa member He also volunteered with ConnCap and was recognized at the College’s Men of Promise and Distinction banquet for overcoming significant challenges
After NCC, he earned a B S in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Rhode Island, followed by a master’s in counseling from the University of Bridgeport and an MBA from the University of Texas at Tyler Despite having already transferred to URI, he remained committed to completing his associate degree at NCC while working in the Office of Institutional Effectiveness a decision that reflects his deep appreciation for the College's impact on his life.
His career spans multiple states and leadership roles. He has served as director of continuing legal education for the Kansas Bar Association, a career services specialist at Washburn University, and executive director of Community Assisting Military Personnel and Veterans (CampV) in Texas. Now, as a court education specialist for the Kansas Supreme Court, he continues to shape legal education and professional development.
Cichowicz credits NCC with laying the foundation for his success. “I took pride in the fact that I graduated from a community college, so I made sure to complete my degree there before starting my bachelor’s,” he shared “Without NCC, I’m not sure where I’d be today ” His story is a powerful reminder of how the NCC Foundation transforms lives and creates opportunities for the Norwalk community
“I took pride in the fact that I graduated from a community college, so I made sure to complete my degree there before starting my bachelor’s.”
– Michael P. Cichowicz
A licensed lawyer and financial professional with almost 30 years of experience, from 2001 to 2011, Read was head of trading of Eos Partners, L P Prior to Eos, He was an analyst and trader at Kadem Capital Before that, Read practiced corporate law at Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP and Clifford Chance LLP.