_ _ _ Norwalk Community College I Norwalk Community College Foundation _ _ _ Annual Report 2019-2020 ______Norwalk Community College aspires to create a culture

The vision of the Norwalk Community of inclusion and excellence through intellectual

College Foundation is to expand access inquiry, open dialogue, multicultural awareness, and

to affordable, quality higher education, lifelong learning. By embracing the diverse needs of

support the development of a productive our students, faculty, staff, and community, the college

workforce, and contribute to the knowl- strives to provide an environment in which individuals

edge and well-being of our community. are empowered to achieve their highest potential. From Norwalk Community College In Partnership with the NCC Foundation

Supporting students has always been a driving Early in the fall, NCC launched myPATH, One of the best parts of my job used to be experiences and developed an impressive bond. force in the work we do at Norwalk Community an exciting new initiative that provides unique talking with students in the hallways of NCC or We look forward to developing a second Bridge- College, but it has never been more evident support to students as they navigate their own at the Foundation’s office on the NCC campus. water Scholars cohort focused on diversity, than in this past year. As the world was dealt an journey. The PATH acronym stands for Plan This March, I found myself meeting students in equity, and inclusion by targeting employees and unprecedented pandemic, we needed to provide Ahead, Access Resources, Think Critically, and a very different setting—in the parking lot of students of color. We also partnered in a leader- a higher level of support to rise to the occasion. Head Out Confidently. The initiative is made Norwalk’s Fire Department. It was the early days ship team with Bank of America and other funders In the spring, we closed our campus and possible by a grant from the Title V Developing of the pandemic, NCC’s campus had closed, and to develop an innovated accelerated certificate immediately transitioned to online learning. Hispanic-Serving Institutions Program funded the area served as a convenient meeting point program to retrain displaced COVID-19 workers Students were faced with a new set of obstacles by the U.S. Department of Education. A ribbon- to safely distribute donated laptops to students. in healthcare as Certified Nurse Aides (CNA). on their road to success. Some were already cutting ceremony in October officially opened Cut off from campus resources like the library, Developed in just a few short months over the masters of the required technology, but others the newly renovated West Campus B-Wing, computer labs, and food pantry, many students summer, we proudly partnered with Bank of needed to get up to speed quickly. And still which displays colorful wall graphics represent- were struggling. Despite the challenges, stu- America and Social Venture Partners to sponsor others didn’t even have computers. ing the steps of the myPATH initiative. Cheryl C. De Vonish, J.D., NCC Chief dents were determined to continue with their the first CNA class, with a goal of replicating Vincent A. Murphy, NCC Foundation Pre-pandemic, many of our students were This year saw other examples of support, Executive Officer coursework. One student who received a laptop the program across other Connecticut commu- Board of Directors President already self-supporting and trying to balance including an easier way to apply for financial that day asked me, “How can I thank you?” I nity colleges. school and a job (or two!) to make ends meet. aid with individual assistance for students. replied, “The best thanks you can give to me We are proud of the Foundation’s respon- In addition, some faced food insecurity, lacked NCC also increased the number of work experi- and all the donors who believe in you, is to stay siveness in a time of crisis. The Foundation-sup- transportation, even lacked adequate housing. ence programs built into the curriculum, and on track at school and graduate.” ported Makerspace made more than 700 face Add to that the challenges of the COVID-19 boosted ongoing support for Veterans, students COVID-19 has indisputably added another shields to donate to local healthcare providers. crisis with the immediate shift to remote learn- with disabilities, and those who need academic great challenge to our students, who prior to the With our emergency fundraising in March 2020, ing, and the need for unique student support and mental health counseling. pandemic, already faced a number of barriers we were able to provide 215 laptops to students becomes obvious. I would like to take this opportunity to high- to overcome on their path to graduation. Yet the to help them complete their spring semester, We are grateful to the NCC Foundation, which light and commend our incredible students and mission of the NCC Foundation is clearer than 340 grocery store gift cards, and emergency quickly jumped in and raised funds to purchase graduates who stepped into heroic roles, work- ever. We are here to support student success at financial aid for rent and other essential bills. laptops for those who needed them, as well as ing in local stores and in healthcare facilities Norwalk Community College. The disruption caused by COVID-19 didn’t grocery gift cards for students greatly effected during the pandemic. One hundred percent of To that end, our support for NCC during slow us down. We proudly continue to serve stu- dents and the College during this difficult time. by the pandemic. our 2019 Respiratory Care Program graduates 2019-2020 included $3.4 million invested in Carrie L. Bernier, J.D., NCC Foundation Student services departments worked dili- were hired upon graduation and were already scholarships, academic supports and innovative Whether we are providing coaching and mentor- Executive Director gently and creatively to connect with students. working in the healthcare industry. They put programs. We are honored to have awarded ing programs or re-stocking the shelves of the Academic counselors communicated via phone, their education to immediate use, caring for NCC scholars more than $1.8 million in scholar- food pantry, the purpose for the Foundation staff email, or virtual meetings to help students reg- COVID-19 patients in area hospitals. We are so ships—both to students earning their associate and our Board of Directors remains clear—to ister for classes. The Tutoring Center provided very proud of them. degrees, and high-achieving transfer students ensure that a high-quality college education is virtual academic support. Counseling services I am confident that Norwalk Community on the path to earning their bachelor’s degrees. affordable and accessible to our community. offered virtual group sessions and other pro- College will continue the tradition of excellence Another $1 million was invested in academic Thank you for your belief in us and our mis- grams to help students through these trying and bring high-quality education throughout excellence through programmatic support in sion. We are proud to be your partners and will times. The Career Development and Experiential these challenging times and into the future. areas such as the Allied Health Department continue to do the work that needs be done. Learning Center worked remotely with students Thank you for your continued support. within the Center for Science, Health and Well- With sincere gratitude, to help them obtain employment, with a focus Sincerely, ness, College Advancement grants to faculty on essential businesses. and staff, innovation, and entrepreneurship Connecticut State Colleges and Universities in our Makerspace, and more. implemented a new grading policy during the The Foundation’s programs grew this past Carrie L. Bernier, J.D. pandemic and thus NCC was able to give stu- Cheryl C. De Vonish, J.D. year, as we scaled our coaching and mentoring Executive Director, Norwalk Community dents the option to convert to Pass/Fail grading Norwalk Community College services to provide more students with individ- College Foundation so as not to disrupt their GPA. Chief Executive Officer ualized support. We piloted a new corporate This pandemic-related support further mentoring program with 16 professional women supplements the great work we have done to from Bridgewater Associates and nine high- help empower students along their journey to achieving NCC women. Over a series of six in- Vincent A. Murphy completing a degree or certificate, or transfer- person and Zoom meetings, the Bridgewater President, Board of Directors, Norwalk ring to a four-year college or university. Scholars shared professional and personal Community College Foundation

2 3 At the hospital where Nursing alumna NCC’s Healthcare Heroes Choralee Paurice works, there weren’t enough N-95 face masks, hairnets, or shoe covers. Workers were re-using disposable isolation gowns and some had to use the same face mask for three weeks. “I protected myself by using the correct PPE, taking extra precautions, washing my hands a lot more, removing my hospital uniform at work and changing into clean clothes to enter my home and doing the same with my shoes,” Choralee said. “Some of This year we would like to express our grati- us stayed away from our families. We continued tude to all the essential workers whose tireless to boost up our immune systems and drank efforts kept us safe. While the world shut down, a lot of tea.” NCC students and graduates were among those “The most challenging part of working who bravely kept working in our local stores among COVID patients was to see so many and hospitals to keep our community strong. deaths and have to deal with the fear of getting Ever since the coronavirus pandemic spread to infected,” said Respiratory Therapy graduate Connecticut, NCC graduates have demonstrated Diana Ramirez, who works at White Plains Hospital. “I am a mother of three and I pray the extraordinary value of their education. Many of the healthcare workers who were every day for my children to be safe. I love my courageously caring for COVID-19 patients are profession, but I can’t wait for all of this it was shocking, I was scared. The patients graduates of the NCC Nursing, Allied Health, to be over finally.” deteriorated in a matter of hours.” NCC Gives Back Daniela Ochoa finished her Respiratory Daniela works at Stamford Hospital. As Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Certified Realizing that many health workers lacked Therapy degree in 2019, so working during a the patient count continued to steadily rise, Nurse Aide and Respiratory Care programs. adequate personal protective equipment, NCC’s pandemic was trial by fire for her. “I was not she was impressed by the way teams of heath When the pandemic first spread to our Hospital Simulation Unit, a high-tech teaching expecting this, nobody was. This was an extra- care providers at the hospital mobilized and region, many of our recent graduates had been facility funded by the NCC Foundation, loaned ordinary situation, but extraordinary people developed response plans. Infection control working in the medical field for just months. three ventilators and donated 15,000 medical were handling it,” she said. “In the beginning, specialists, nurses, cleaning people, radiologists, Yet, they were thrust into an unimaginable work gloves, 919 masks, and 130 gowns, to area hospitals. when we started admitting infected patients, and respiratory therapists were working side environment, facing life-and-death situations NCC student Lillie Dehaemer (shown above), by side. “We were educated on how to protect every day. facilities. While Connecticut succeeded in “flatten- a fabricator intern in the NCC Makerspace, worked ourselves, and we developed plans of care. NCC Respiratory Care Program Coordinator ing the curve” since early March, the pandemic with Makerspace coordinator Vladimir Mariano to Together we have been working as a team and Maria Grayson notes that NCC grads were work- remains a threat, and NCC grads are still serving manufacture protective face shields for donation 919 masks, 15,000 trying to overcome this situation for the best ing on the front lines at Stamford, Norwalk, and as essential workers in COVID-19 units. to front line workers using the College’s 3D printer. possible outcomes for our patients,” she said. Greenwich Hospitals; St. Vincent’s Hospital in Professor Grayson herself was working gloves, 130 gowns “Given that we have the time, the equipment Bridgeport, Burke Rehabilitation Hospital in New weekend shifts during the pandemic. “It really and materials here, we thought it would be really York, St. Raphael’s Hospital in New Haven, White was like a war zone,” she said. “You were just “My NCC education has prepared nice to give back to the community,” Lillie said. Plains Hospital, New York Presbyterian Hospital/ so busy, non-stop the entire shift.” To protect The Makerspace facility helps prepare students Columbia University Medical Center, and other herself, she wore double gowns, double masks, for future careers by giving them hands on experi- goggles, and gloves. When she got home, she me to be one of the best respiratory ence with high-tech fabrication tools including 3D took the precautions of leaving her shoes PPE donated by the NCC printers, laser cutters, and CNC milling machines. outside, removing her clothing in the basement care practitioners who cares about Fabricators are Makerspace assistants who NCC Alumni suited up to work on the front lines. Foundation-funded Hospital and washing them in hot water. “I showered receive special training in the equipment and are immediately,” she added. Simulation Unit people and what we can do to help available to guide and assist other students with “When we signed up to be healthcare other member institutions of the Connecticut the use of makerspace tools and equipment. providers, we signed up for anything that came State Colleges and Universities system had our way,” said Michelle Brown, an alumna who collectively donated personal protective equip- Ventilators them to the best of our expertise.” is working as a respiratory therapist in New York ment (PPE), with a total of 184,400 gloves, loaned to area City. “But . . . we had no idea what we were up 11,345 masks, 1,885 gowns, and 15 ventilators — NCC Alumna Michelle Brown against, and we were not prepared.” Michelle to Connecticut hospitals. hospitals said she was deeply disturbed by the suffering Nursing graduate Cynthia Ibarra works at 3 of COVID-19 patients, but was committed to St. Raphael’s Hospital in New Haven in a unit keeping an upbeat attitude for the sake of designated to treat COVID-positive patients. patients “who needed us the most.” “Thankfully we had sufficient PPE,” she said. NCC Nursing Program graduate and Foundation transfer All of the NCC grads interviewed said they “I had a few relatives that tested positive, scholarship recipient Dana Chamale (pictured on left with were touched by the outpouring of gratitude including one who was intubated at a local her colleague Natalia on right). Dana earned her bache- lor’s degree from Fairfield University and now works as a and concern they had received from the public. hospital. I saw first-hand professionally and nurse, helping COVID-19 patients in Fairfield County. It lifted their spirits to know that NCC and 16 personally what this virus can do.”

4 Removing Obstacles to Student Success

Barriers Beyond Money interests, evaluate transfer opportunities, Barriers on the Path and learn about financial options. Students who are the first in their family to to Graduation attend college are at a disadvantage because (A) ACCESS RESOURCES to strengthen their they have no role models to help them navigate academic and leadership skills. Students This year, NCC launched a major initiative to the system. Many are non-native speakers or learn with their peers, join student clubs, identify barriers to student success and develop undocumented students who are more com- connect to campus services, and are new strategies to overcome them. The goal is fortable staying under the radar than speaking expected to be active in their education. to help more students become informed, feel up and asking for help. (T) THINK CRITICALLY about their commu- connected, and make it to the graduation finish Other students test poorly on the place- nity at NCC and beyond. NCC asks students line. Through student surveys and thoughtful ment test in math or English, and need help to reflect on their experiences, connect discussions with faculty and student service getting up to speed on college-level work. with people from different backgrounds, staff, NCC took a deep dive into identifying Biology Professor Jonathan McMenamin- build their support network, consider the student needs and concerns. Balano, Ph.D. observes that many students are sources of their information, and never academically unprepared and lack the plan- be afraid to ask questions. Financial Obstacles ning, time-management, and organizational (H) HEAD OUT CONFIDENTLY on their path skills needed to succeed in college. to success. As they work toward their goals, The financial obstacles for NCC students are “We cannot put them in a time machine to students commit to their own success, staggering. The Student Identity Survey found tell them to learn these skills before they show create their future, inspire others to make a that 75% needed to borrow money from family up at our doors—but every student who does difference, and stay connected. or friends to help pay bills or expenses in the walk through them should know what they are past year; 30% withdrew from a class to work in for,” he said. He urges students to “review The initiative is supported by a five-year more hours to cover bills, and 18% were unable what they think they did and didn’t understand” grant from the Title V Developing Hispanic- to pay their rent or mortgage. and “ask for help before they really need it.” Serving Institutions Program funded by the U.S. The cost of tuition also can stand as a Department of Education. It is under the direc- barrier for students. Although NCC tuition is a tion of a dedicated Title V Coordinator at NCC. modest $4,500 a year, for many students that Distinctive myPATH signage brings visual amount is still out of reach. Moreover, students Empowering cohesion to the offices on West Main Street (the grapple with paying for expensive textbooks first floor B-wing of the West Campus building) (nursing textbooks can cost more than $600 Students on Their by bringing services to life on the walls for each) and additional studio and lab fees for art students and campus community members. and science courses. NCC Journey Beyond West Main Street, myPATH lays out Many students are self-supporting and a grounding framework for students’ journeys myPATH experience food insecurity. They often must at NCC by setting out a plan of action for stu- choose between buying food or putting gas in In the fall of 2019, NCC launched a grounding dents to follow as they pursue their educational their car. framework that helps students begin their and career goals. Some students lack a computer. It is dif- journey at NCC, and grow, persist, graduate, and ficult for them to complete assignments when achieve their goals. The initiative is called their computer access is dependent upon the “myPATH” because NCC provides students with College’s computer labs being open. the resources necessary to support their own Nearly a quarter of NCC students live with unique path to realize their dreams and aspira- family or friends because they cannot afford tions. Students are encouraged to become the rent, or they live in temporary housing or a “owners of their own vision and agents for their shelter. The most vulnerable are homeless, and own success.” The PATH acronym stands for: spend the semester couch surfing at a friend’s home or even living out of their car. Many lack (P) PLAN AHEAD for their academic, career, transportation as well. and financial success. Students connect with advisors, explore major and career

7 2019 Summer Bridge care. While petting a puppy or shooting a video, Supporting students gather to they get a real sense of NCC’s offerings. More celebrate the end of Student Success thier program. than 200 high school students attended in the last academic year. The mental health and academic perfor- NCC provides comprehensive academic advising mance of students are intertwined. That is why to students from orientation through graduation. NCC offers mental health counseling and The College’s Panther Advising Workshops programs throughout the year to help students (PAW) for incoming students helps them register cope with the stressors they face most—academic and become familiar with college resources even pressure, finances, relationships, abuse, and before their first day of class. The PAW pilot pro- personal problems. NCC has two mental health gram was developed in 2017 as part of a larger counselors on staff—a full-time holistic counselor, strategy to improve the enrollment process. It and a counselor from Family and Children’s was designed to help new students be informed Agency, who provides short-term counseling and connected, with the goal of improving program, 69% of the 42 students finishing the Student Aid). The Foundation retooled its sessions for students facing challenges in their first-year retention rates. program had immediate savings in time and daunting essay requirement to essay questions lives. The College offers referrals to outside During Summer 2019, workshops were money through increasing their placement to in the application, and NCC offered multiple agencies when appropriate. Additionally, the attended by more than 300 students. All first- either four-credit remedial math course or to a one-on-one sessions to help students fill out NCC Foundation provided more than 1,100 hours time students are required to attend a two-hour college-level math course. the FAFSA form, which can be confusing. NCC in mentoring and student coaching this year. PAW session. Students are given a brief present- Because no student should experience publicized these sessions in flyers and posters The NCC Tutoring Services Center pro- ation on acclimating to NCC during the first sem- food insecurity, the College offers the free and in both English and Spanish and informed Kiran Somaya, Director of the Career Development and Experiential Learning Center (left), works with a student. vides students with a comfortable facility (and ester, meet with an academic advisor, register confidential Food Pantry @ NCC. Students are students of the advantages of filing early. On online support through videoconferencing) for courses, learn how use NCC’s student portal, not required to prove financial need with a valid FAFSA Donut Day, every student who com- The Center has a particularly robust website daycare for children ages six months to five where they can receive extra help with class- and sign up for the New Student Orientation. student ID. They can enter and choose from pleted a FAFSA form received a donut as an featuring a step-by-step “Career Readiness Pro- years, with an infant care center in the works. work and writing assignments. Students are Special PAW sessions are held for English as a canned goods, household items like toothpaste additional, extra-sweet incentive. cess” for students to follow, and links to many The Lab School is open to children of students, encouraged to think logically and work through Second Language (ESL) students. and shampoo, and fresh fruit and vegetables. resources that can be easily accessed virtually faculty, and members of the public. problems, so that their understanding of the New students also learn the lay of the land NCC even holds occasional cooking sessions such as the “Focus 2 Career” assessment tool, the NCC has expanded the number of work subject material is strengthened. NCC tutors by attending a mandatory three-hour New Stu- where students can learn to make tasty, nutri- “Career Connections” online job board, and experience programs embedded into the are internationally certified through the College dent Orientation. They meet NCC CEO Cheryl tious meals using only items from the Pantry. “What Can I Do With This Major?” online infor- curriculum. Nursing and Allied Heath students Reading and Learning Association (CRLA). De Vonish, deans and faculty, and learn about the mational tool. The Center even provides donated do rotations at area hospitals and long-term College’s services and resources. They also parti- professional attire for job interviews through care and rehab facilities. Culinary Arts and cipate in activities to get to know other students. its popular annual “Professional Attire Pop- Hospitality Management students learn how a The NCC Foundation-sponsored Summer Up” event. real restaurant is run at NCC’s Café, with lunch Bridge Intensive Math Program is for incoming Life happens. Realizing that most students service offering creative and delicious meals first-year NCC students who have placed into live within tight budgets, the NCC Foundation prepared by students. Open to the public, until remedial math courses for their first semester offers an Emergency Fund to help with unex- the pandemic forced its closure, the program at NCC. During the two-week program, students pected costs for essential needs such as housing, is designed to give students experience with all receive intensive math instruction in the sum- Staff and volunteers gave out donuts to students who books, car repairs, or family emergencies. phases of running a restaurant or foodservice mer so they can register for credit-bearing math completed a FAFSA application. NCC offers affordable child care in its Child operation, from prepping and preparing lunch- classes in the fall. This saves students time and Development Laboratory School. The NCC eon entrées to serving as waiters and managers. money when working toward their NCC degree Many NCC students lack cars. They rely Student volunteers help distribute food and manage Foundation offers childcare scholarships to help Veterinary Technology students get experience (credits earned in remedial classes do not count the Food Pantry @ NCC. on friends or public transportation to get to defray the costs for students. The award-winning working at area animal hospitals and veterinary towards graduation). and from school. NCC offers all students a facility provides a venue for Early Childhood Edu- practices. Engineering students participate in Program data show that students who Tuition assistance is available in the UPASS Bus and Train Pass that provides free, cation students to observe and practice methods aerospace programs sponsored by NASA. completed the Summer Bridge Program, on form of scholarships, grants, and federal fund- unlimited bus or rail transport on CTtransit and In the NCC Tutoring Services Center, students provide taught in the classroom. It also provides quality Many NCC students are introduced to assistance to others with their classwork. average, earn more credits in their first year than ing. In the 2019-2020 academic year, the NCC other bus systems statewide, and Amtrak trains college resources while still in high school. comparison groups, have a higher-grade point Foundation invested more than $1.5 million between New Haven and Springfield, Massa- The Admissions Office does outreach campus Additionally, NCC provides services for average, and graduate from NCC at nearly in scholarships to incoming, current, and grad- chussetts. The pass is paid for by the College tours for students from 10 area high schools. military veterans to help them access free gov- double the rate of their peers. uating transfer students. More than 40% of through the Student Fees Fund. High school students can take courses for ernment services and benefits, an ESL center Additionally, there are workshops on time students receive federal aid. Surprisingly, many The Career Development and Experien- college credit at NCC through the High School that is the largest of the state’s community management and organizational skills, as well students don’t take advantage of scholarship tial Learning Center provides comprehensive Partnership program. In addition, every May, colleges, and an AccessAbilities counselor who as opportunities for students to learn about assistance because they have difficulty writing programs, activities, services, and experiential NCC hosts NCC Live!, an annual event where high works with students with disabilities to provide their options for majors and courses of study, an application essay, or are undocumented learning opportunities for students, alumni, school students are invited to “go to college accessibility accommodations that suit their which gives them a head start in planning for and don’t realize they are eligible. and community members to prepare for for the day.” Students attend their choice of mini particular needs. their academic and career paths. The program This year, the NCC Foundation and the employment by developing resume writing, classes taught by NCC faculty in a wide variety also introduces participants to student resources College have made a great effort to urge more interviewing skills, job-search strategies, and of topics including nursing, film and TV produc- on campus such as the Tutoring Center and stu- students to apply for scholarships and fill out a deeper understanding of the fit between tion, early childhood education, and veterinary dent retention specialists. For the 2019 summer the FAFSA form (the Free Application for Federal their competencies and the world of work. Students in the CDLS enjoy story time.

8 9 “Our students are a source of inspiration Keeping Students in these trying times. Many of them are working on Track During on the front lines, caring for family members with the virus, some have even had the virus COVID-19 themselves,” said Catherine Miller, Director of the Academic Counseling Center. “Many have In March, life as we know it changed. As the 215Students Received picked up the slack in their household working COVID-19 virus spread, NCC joined schools on the front lines to pay the bills.” The Career Development and Experiential across the nation in closing its campus and tran- Donated Learning Center assisted in constructing a stu- sitioning from classroom to online learning. All Laptops dent Needs Assessment Survey. The Center’s faculty and staff began working remotely, and staff connected with respondents via phone calls students were suddenly faced with the prospect to schedule appointments for help with the job of completing their semester in a new way. Although the campus closed, learning con- search, resume and cover letter writing, interview tinued, and the commitment to helping students Grocery tips and techniques, and exploring their major overcome obstacles to success was reaffirmed. (using the Focus 2 Career assessment tool). Social media and email campaigns were While some faculty and students were already Gift Cards used to alert students and alumni that the experienced in online coursework, others had Distributed Career Center staff were continuing to work to quickly learn to master the technology. remotely and were available to help. Within the “The pandemic made already difficult to Students first few weeks of the school closure, an email situations more difficult. Several of my students was sent to all Needs Assessment respondents simply could not continue with school because with 10 live links directing them to resources they had to go to work, and their work schedules and information to aid in job search and employ- were no longer negotiable to meet their school ment, with a specific focus on companies con- schedules,” said Humanities Professor Susan sidered essential businesses and who were Seidell. “Many students and many faculty . . . continuing to hire. had to master online learning overnight. It was Just as healthcare workers have been extremely stressful trying to negotiate the tech- 340 medical heroes during the COVID-19 crisis, NCC nology piece along with trying to teach in a One student, Jaquiline, was able to finish faculty and staff have been heroes during the foreign, i.e. virtual, environment.” her semester thanks to the Emergency Fund. transition to online learning. Early Childhood Recognizing that closing the campus meant “I was having trouble because I was sharing a Professor Margaret Dana Conway made herself many students were left without computer computer, but since I got the computer from the available to students day and night, some- access, the NCC Foundation swiftly responded Foundation, it has been a life-saver,” she said. times answering “50 emails a day.” Humanities by announcing a COVID-19 Student Emergency “Thank you so much for helping!” Professor Cathy Milton, Ph.D. made phone Fund to purchase laptops and grocery store gift Connecticut State Colleges and Universities calls to students and helped them get tutors. cards for students in need. The laptops were implemented a new policy during the pandemic: Philosophy Professor Ed Grippe, Ph.D. allowed distributed by NCC Foundation Executive Direc- community college students would have the students who lacked laptops to submit their tor Carrie Bernier at the Norwalk Fire Depart- option to convert any of the grades they earned assignments via Blackboard (a feature of the ment. The Foundation also distributed Walmart in their Spring 2020 semester courses to Pass/ student portal). gift cards to help students and their families Fail grading so that the courses would not who became unemployed or underemployed affect their GPA. by the pandemic. All Student Services departments found “To provide support for students, I ways to connect with students, whether it was by phone call, video conference meetings, spent five hours every weekday at my or social media posts. A wide variety of weekly or on-demand live chats took place, including “Virtual Tutoring,” “Ask a Career Counselor” computer in order to be available to sessions, mental health virtual “Group Sessions,” and “Admissions Chats.” answer questions in real time. I also The Academic Counseling Center continued to provide one-on-one counseling to students, adjusted some writing assignments to and helped them choose courses and register for summer and fall courses. Counselors person- ally called students, communicated via emails, make them more student-friendly.”

NCC Foundation Executive Director Carrie Bernier (right) or met with them virtually, whichever was distributes donated laptops to students. most convenient for the student. — NCC History Professor Steve Berizzi

10 College Events + Achievements

The academic year 2019-2020 was filled with PTK Receives Five-Star Status college students an authentic NASA experience, student achievements, respected speakers, and encourage them to finish a two-year degree NCC’s Alpha Iota Nu Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa and cultural enrichment on campus. Here are or transfer to a four-year college university to (PTK), the international honor society for two- some of the highlights. pursue a NASA-related field or career. year colleges, has attained Five-Star Chapter status, PTK’s highest level of achievement. Networking and Career Advice for NCC was honored at PTK Catalyst, an event NCC Scholars at Neuberger Berman celebrating chapter excellence and student leadership among more than 1,300 chapters in Two NCC Foundation scholarship recipients, 11 nations. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jersy Esquivel and Gordon Hanssen, joined the April event was held virtually. finance professionals in New York City for a The mission of NCC’s honor society is daylong workshop entitled, “Classroom to Board- to provide opportunities for high-achieving room, Preparing Tomorrow’s Leaders Today” students to become scholars and leaders and at Neuberger Berman. It was a unique oppor- engage in community service. tunity to gain practical advice and insights from finance professionals, as well as to learn NCC’s NASA Connections strategies for building a resume and career path. Both students reported that they learned This year, two NCC engineering students were critical networking skills and strategies. selected to participate in educational initiatives Jersy is from Stamford and is majoring in Journalist Scott Pelley meets with students in the supported by the National Aeronautics and Hospitality Management. “This was one of the Film & TV Production program after his presentation Space Administration (NASA) to inspire interest on October 17. best workshops that I have been to,” she said. in careers in science, aerospace technology, “It was a great benefit to meet so many people engineering, and mathematics. 60 Minutes’ Scott Pelley Visits NCC in the business, finance, and economic fields.” Ben Ebel participated in an undergraduate She said the advice she heard on how to work Scott Pelley, the most awarded correspondent research experience at the University of Bridge- your way up in the industry was inspiring. in the history of the television show 60 Minutes port (UB), under the supervision of Dr. Miad Gordon, who is from Greenwich and a and former anchor and managing editor of the Faezipour, Director of UB’s Digital/Biomedical General Studies major, described the experience CBS Evening News, visited NCC in October to Embedded Systems and Technology Lab. The as “the highlight of my winter break,” saying talk about his storied career and sign copies of project’s goal was to the workshop “enhanced my financial literacy his new memoir, Truth Worth Telling. The event utilize novel signal and gave me all the tools I need to develop a was sponsored by the NCC Foundation. processing tech- successful career once I finish my education.” Some journalists are so accomplished at niques and analyze covering the news that they become newsworthy electrocardiogram themselves. Pelley is one of them. At NCC, he data to develop discussed his work as a reporter and photogra- methods for identi- pher for more than 45 years, covering war sto- fying various types ries and interviewing everyone from presidents of arrhythmia and and politicians to celebrities and newsmakers. NCC student Ben Ebel the onset of sudden After his presentation, Mr. Pelley toured cardiac arrest. NCC’s film and television studio, and met with NCC student Philip Senat spent a week students in the program. He shared with them at a robotics workshop at NASA’s Stennis Space helpful advice and words of encouragement for Center in Mississippi, where he worked on a pursuing a career in the industry. project related to the Mars exploration rovers. The NCC Foundation has approved funding He was selected after completing a to upgrade the technology in the current film and five-week online course offered by the NASA Shown from left to right: NCC Hospitality Management student Jersy Esquivel, Neuberger Berman Chief television studio and expects the state-of-the- Community College Aerospace Scholars (NCAS) Operating Officer Kenneth Rende, and NCC General art media studio to be completed in late 2020. program. NCAS’s mission is to give community Studies major Gordon Hanssen

13 Be A Better You! Women and Advertising NCC Shares a Common Read Alumnus Andre Aiken, a fitness expert and grad- “NCC Talks” is the College’s annual series of uate of NCC’s Exercise Science program, celebra- lectures and discussions by distinguished lead- Every year, NCC selects a novel or non-fiction ted the publication of his first book, an e-book ers from the arts and sciences, entertainment, work for students in all Freshman Seminar titled Square One: A Beginner’s Guide to Being and popular culture. Last winter, the series classes to read and discuss. A Better You Than Yesterday. NCC recognized his featured Jean Kilbourne, Ph.D. discussing her The Common Read program culminates achievement with a poster signing in February. TEDtalk “The Naked Truth: Advertising’s Image in a celebration of topics and themes related The self-help e-book is designed to motivate of Women.” to the book. people to get started on new paths or projects, Dr. Kilbourne is an activist, speaker, and This year’s Common Read choice was whether they are beginning a new gym routine, writer who has done pioneering research on the Born a Crime, a best-selling novel by comedian diet, career path, or lifestyle. effects of advertising on our culture, particularly and late-night television Andre is a fitness trainer, physical therapy on women and children. host Trevor Noah about aid, and group exercise instructor. After gradu- In the late 1960s, she began her exploration Shown from left to right: CT State Senator Will Haskell, his childhood growing up ating from NCC in 2016, he earned a bachelor’s of the connection between advertising and CT Congressman Jim Himes, NCC CEO Cheryl De Vonish, in South Africa. and NCC Foundation Executive Director Carrie Bernier degree in exercise science and nutrition from several public health issues, including violence NCC’s Common Read Southern Connecticut State University. He is against women, eating disorders, and addiction. Celebration, which took also an adjunct instructor at NCC and small She also launched a movement to promote Himes Visits NCC Twice place over two days in November, featured business owner. At the 2020 NCC commence- NCC Theater and Choir students recorded vocals on their cell phones and combined them into a video virtual concert. media literacy as a way to prevent these prob- Connecticut Congressman Jim Himes and events and discourse ment ceremony, he received the NCC Distin- lems. A radical and original idea at the time, State Senator Will Haskell visited NCC’s exploring apartheid, social injustice, multicul- guished Alumni COVID-19 Can’t Stop the Music “According to Ren, if she didn’t attend our this approach is now mainstream and an inte- campus on the first day of classes to meet tural awareness, South African culture, and the Award, telling grad- NCC information session in early November, she gral part of most prevention programs. In March, NCC theater and choral students were with NCC Foundation Executive Director Carrie challenges of life under apartheid. uates in his speech wouldn’t have even applied to Mount Holyoke in the final stages of rehearsing for the spring Bernier and CEO Cheryl De Vonish to discuss Events included “Walk in My Shoes,” an to embrace the or known about the awesome Frances Perkins musical, “Mamma Mia,” when the COVID-19 workforce development, as well as priorities interactive cultural competency training session obstacles they may Program for non-traditional college female virus caused NCC to close its campus. for the College and Foundation. presented by NCC’s CEO Cheryl De Vonish. The have faced on their students,” Gebhardt-Burns said. Congressman Himes later returned to path to graduating, The students were disheartened, but not training was designed to help students develop defeated. They found a way to keep singing NCC in October to speak about his anti-gun attitudes, behaviors, and practices that will because ultimately it Career Expo advocacy work. According to CNN, there were will mold them into together, without being together, by creating a enable them to work effectively with students virtual concert of the song “Raise Me Up.” Job-seeking students must often move mount- 45 school shootings in the first 46 weeks of NCC alumnus Andre Aiken better individuals. from different cultural backgrounds. “Twenty-seven students recorded vocals ains to meet employers face to face. In February, 2019. That’s nearly an average of one shooting The Honors Program presented “A Discus- per week in U.S. colleges, high schools, middle myPATH Ribbon-Cutting into their cell phones. Then they filmed them- NCC brought employers directly to them at the sion of Perspective,” a panel featuring a Yale selves singing at their individual homes,” said annual Career Expo sponsored by the Center for schools, and elementary schools. Congressman professor and community members of South In October, CEO Cheryl De Vonish and Title V Theater Professor Christine Mangone, Ph.D. Career Development and Experiential Learning. Himes discussed gun violence prevention and African descent discussing Noah’s apartheid staff wielded an oversized pair of scissors to cut “We combined the vocals and videos so that we More than 50 employers, recruiting for all the importance of political participation by experiences from their own personal and pro- a red ribbon, announcing the launch of myPath, could perform together once again.” work sectors, participated—the largest turnout Shown from left to right: NCC Professor Susan Seidell, college students. fessional perspectives. a grounding framework that helps students The inspiring virtual concert delighted ever. Students and alumni met recruiters from activist and author Jean Kilbourne, Ph.D., and During a lengthy Q&A session, he urged A South African Cultural Fair was hosted by NCC Foundation Executive Director Carrie Bernier begin their journey at NCC and grow, persist, students, faculty, staff, and NCC Foundation Amazon, Ernst & Young, Waveny LifeCare, and students to contact their legislators “and let the Committee for Diversity and Inclusion and graduate, and achieve their goals. Attendees supporters, and was posted online at https:// many more companies and organizations. their voices be heard in Washington.” featured an open African drumming session. took a tour of the West Campus Main Street wing, youtu.be/DlCAyu7ePdY. Prior to the event, the Career Center NCC Hosts Norwalk Film Festival Other events included a Theater Improv where colorful wall signage illustrated the helped students put their best foot forward by Virtual Commencement The inaugural Norwalk Film Festival premiered session, a trivia competition, and a screening of initiative’s steps and phases. Mount Holyoke Bound offering workshops and information sessions last September, with NCC in a starring role. On the morning of June 18, students partici- the 2008 film Skin about a light-skinned girl living on resume writing, interview preparation, and in 1950’s South Africa with her white parents. A chance drop-in to an NCC info session on This one-day event featured screenings of pated in a “drive-by” graduation on campus dressing for success. women’s colleges has yielded NCC student Ren more than 50 films including documentaries to receive their diplomas. The East Campus Citak an educational windfall. After learning and films created by local filmmakers and NCC entrance was decorated with balloons, and about scholarship programs from Smith and students. All showings were open to the public. from blocks away one could hear the brigade Mount Holyoke colleges, Ren decided to apply NCC was one of several venues in Norwalk of horns honking and see cars driving by filled to Mount Holyoke in South Hadley, Massa- chosen to host the films. Thirty films were with smiling students and families. Students chusetts. She was accepted and awarded a shown at NCC throughout the day in the David celebrated in front of the school (six feet two-year Frances Perkins Scholarship worth L. Levinson, Ph.D. Performing Arts Community apart, of course). $110,000. Theater (formerly known as the PepsiCo Later that day, NCC held a Commencement NCC has enjoyed a high acceptance rate to Theater) and in the College’s Gen Re Forum. ceremony online with recorded messages from Mount Holyoke and Smith. Over the past seven NCC also hosted an afternoon Industry CEO Cheryl De Vonish, J.D., Dean of Student years, NCC graduates have attended these Panel Q&A with filmmakers and industry AffairsKellie Byrd Danso, Ed.D., CSCU President prestigious institutions with more $1 million professionals. The film festival culminated in Mark Ojakian, and more. CEO De Vonish NCC CEO Cheryl De Vonish cuts the ribbon to officially open in scholarship awards, notes English Professor a Standing Ovation Award event held at NCC conferred the degrees by reading the names During the South African cultural fair, attendees West Campus’ Main Street featuring the myPATH wall Kelly DelMazio of NCC's Career Center (shown right) participated in an African drumming session. graphics, with Suzanne Lyons, Title V Coordinator (right). Susan Gephardt-Burns. assists during the annual Career Expo. in the evening. of all 2020 graduates.

14 2019-2020 Foundation Leadership

Board of Directors Officers President Vincent A. Murphy, Stamford ProCeritas Consulting LLC

Vice President Susan G. Weinberger, Norwalk Mentor Consulting Group

Secretary George A. Reilly, Darien Rucci Law Group

Treasurer Jon Gold, Westport Edgehill Partners, LLC

Directors Livia Barndollar, Westport Pullman & Comley, LLC

Erin M. Catapano, Westport From left to right: Vincent A. Murphy, Carrie L. Bernier, Susan G. Weinberger, Joan Barksdale, Jennifer Croswell, Ann S. Mandel, Jon Gold, Praxair, Inc. Vasso Gyftopoulos, Theodore J. Nussbaum, Carlton T. Goodnow, Laura Erickson, Cheryl C. De Vonish, Amy Richman, Erin M. Catapano, Warren Peña, George A. Reilly, Julie M. Johnson, Jacqueline G. Labatt-Simon, Tanisha Tyson, Gordon Hanssen Ana Chadwick, Darien GE Capital Amy Richman, Pound Ridge, NY Jennifer Croswell, Rowayton Pitney Bowes, Inc.

Laura Erickson, Riverside Stuart C. Weismiller, Rowayton Marketing Tactics, LLC Noradeen Farlekas, Fairfield MMBB Financial Services Joseph R. Zimmel, Milford

Vasso Gyftopoulos, RN, Rowayton Emeritus Directors Julie M. Johnson, Fairfield Executive Leadership Coach Joan Barksdale, Darien

Jacqueline G. Labatt-Simon, Stamford Edwin A. Bescherer, Wilton

Deborah C. McLean, Darien Carlton T. Goodnow, Darien Adjunct Professor, Columbia (SIPA) Ann S. Mandel, Darien Tameika G. Miller, Norwalk Eleanor S. Riemer, Ph.D., Rowayton Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce NCCF Staff pictured from left: Trevor Stonefield, Communications Manager; Catherine Ex Officio Directors Lenore C. Mintz, Redding Lucia, Director of Scholarships and Programs; Laurie Orem, Director of Development; Carrie L. Bernier, Executive Director; Gillian Hornby, Director of Finance; Aura Pineda, Lea Mintz & Associates Cheryl C. De Vonish, J.D. Office and Events Manager CEO, Norwalk Community College Theodore J. Nussbaum, New Canaan Carrie L. Bernier, J.D. G.M. O’Connell, Wilton Executive Director, Norwalk Tango Modem, LLC, Norwalk Community College Foundation Warren Peña, Norwalk Gordon Hanssen Massachusetts Mutual/Modus Park NCC Student Representative Advisors, LLC Tanisha Tyson, RN NCC Faculty Representative

17 Financial Report

Norwalk Community College The Foundation’s financial statements were Investment Policy and Asset Mix Norwalk Community College Operations Budget audited by Marks Paneth LLP. The complete Foundation Our investment policy states: The primary em- Fiscal Year 2019-2020 NCC’s funding sources provided a $56.1million audited financial statements are available on phasis of the investment policy is to safeguard (Ended 6/30/20) operating budget for July 1, 2019 through June Fiscal Year 2019-2020 our website (ncc-foundation.org); highlights (Ended 6/30/20) and preserve the purchasing power of principal 30, 2020. Spending categories are shown below. are shown below. of the NCCF Endowment and to provide a Funding Sources

The Norwalk Community College Foundation payout to be approved annually by the Finance Norwalk Community College received fund- $3.4 Million in Support for Norwalk is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization founded Committee and the Board. Additonally, a real ing through six major sources: the General Community College in 2019-2020 in 1965. We distributed $3.4 million in fiscal rate of return on the portfolio is desired. These Fund, tuition and fees, auxiliary services, the year 2019-2020 for scholarships, stipends, investment objectives must be achieved within Educational Extension Fund, and private and programmatic support, and college advance- acceptable risk parameters. federal funds. ment initiatives. The endowment investment return was The General Fund appropriations are 3.9% for fiscal year 2019-2020 and the five year authorized by the State of Connecticut Legis- Statement of Financial Position average annual investment return was 5.5%. lature. Tuition and fees are established by the Board of Regents for Higher Education. Assets Endowment Asset Allocation Auxiliary services and the Educational Cash and Cash Equivalents $ 2,482,256 Extension Fund are self-supporting. The revenue from auxiliary services is primarily generated Investments 27,709,441 by Child Development Laboratory School fees Other Assets 154,584 and bookstore commissions. The Educational Extension Fund revenue is composed of non- n Instructional Programs, Library and Academic Support $ 25,727,633 Total Assets $ 30,346,281 credit program fees and summer and winter session fees. n Scholarships, Financial Aid $ 13,196,581 Private and federal funds consist mainly of n Scholarships $ 1,834,668 n Student Services $ 5,558,530 Liabilities grants and student financial aid. The Norwalk n College Advancement 1,028,082 n Campus Facilities Operations $ 4,541,546 Grants Payable $ 1,288,333 Community College Foundation actively seeks n Stewardship 293,730 private grant funding for scholarships, student n Institutional Operations $ 4,318,049 Other Liabilities 165,741 success initiatives, faculty development, and n Development 290,389 n Auxiliary Operations $ 2,721,011 program support. Total Liabilities $ 1,454,074 Total $3,391,059 Total $ 56,063,350 Tuition n US Equities 50% Net Assets The Board of Regents sets tuition and fees n Fixed Income 31% Net Assets without Donor at reasonable levels to promote access to Restrictions $ 1,767,961 n International Equities 16% education. In the 2019-2020 academic year, n Alternatives 3% Connecticut residents paid $599 for a three- Net Assets with Donor Restrictions 27,124,246 credit course, and full-time Connecticut students paid $2,238 for 12 credits or more. Annual Total Net Assets $ 28,892,207 tuition was approximately $4,546. Tuition was waived for qualified veterans and seniors Total Liabilities and Net Assets $ 30,346,281 aged 62 and older.

18 19 helping other students with math. “As a tutor My mother works day and night to support at NCC, he was always willing and eager to help three children by herself. When she comes Scholarship Recipient Highlights other students. And always, always with a smile! home, she sleeps with the little time she has. Ronald excelled in academics, participated in Growing up, I wanted to support her, but felt student activities, received many honors, and helpless. Without any structure or parental always remained humble. He was a friend to supervision, I found homework to be a struggle everyone in the Tutoring Center, and showed and I did not understand its significance. By my that he cared about them,” Diane says. senior year of high school, the realization sank With the help of his new part-time job at in that my academic skills were remedial. NCC and a scholarship from the NCC Founda- I knew I did not want to be destitute, that tion, Ronald was able to focus on his studies, I wanted to help people, and that I wanted to “She talked about her college classes and why as well as pursue student activities, such as make my mother proud. I wanted to show her she chose her major,” Claudia recalls. “I thought becoming president of the PTK honors society. that her sacrifices were not in vain. I expressed it was really cool. I looked more into it on my He graduated from NCC with a 3.86 GPA and a these desires to my uncle, who is an advanced own and I eventually decided, I want to do this. degree in Computer Science. He also received practice registered nurse. He told me, “To help This is something I want to go for.” an NCC Foundation transfer scholarship to others, you must first help yourself.” Claudia wasted no time her first semester Malik Lauture help him complete his bachelor’s at Columbia NCC gave me that opportunity, a second at NCC taking advantage of opportunities avail- 2019-20 Academic Year Scholar University, where he graduated in 2017 with a chance. The Summer Bridge Intensive math able to her. “I used all the resources on campus. Major: Nursing degree in Mathematics. Program showed me the significance of home- I went to the tutoring center regularly, and I went Now working as a data analyst with a In addition to being an Academic Year Scholar, work and how to study. But I was still doubtful to math recitations to ensure I did well in my career focus on data science, Ronald says he Malik participated in two NCC Foundation pro- of my own academic potential. math classes.” Claudia also joined study groups still draws on the education he received at grams, Summer Bridge Math and Coaching. Two years ago, I was awarded my first that provided camaraderie and support. “When NCC. “The skills I learned while studying at NCC, Below is a personal essay Malik shared with ever scholarship and gained acceptance into we had to buckle down on a project, we would combined with my math skills, are the ones that us that expresses his journey to NCC. Through the nursing program. This made me feel as always text each other and help each other I’m using in my career and in the job I’m doing poetry and reflection, he describes the path he though I could rival the likes of Elon Musk. The out,” she recalls. Additionally, Claudia found a now,” he says. Ronald says outside of work, he has travelled to become a successful student scholarship aided me by paying for classes and part-time job on campus working in the admis- wants to be an “outstanding citizen,” and find and embark on a career in nursing. materials, allowing me to cut back on hours at sions office. ways to empower minority individuals, both work, and concentrate more on my academics. Like all students, Claudia had to face the Ronald Telemarque Where I’m From academically and financially. Reflecting on his It also served as a nod of affirmation to my challenge of continuing her studies when NCC Graduate and 2014-15 Transfer Scholar I am from rats and roaches own path to higher education, a degree from an personal and academic development. I am a NCC’s campus closed in the spring because of Major: Computer Science From houses stacked liked bricks Ivy League school and a professional career in nursing student, a volunteer educator in the Claudia Moses COVID-19. “The transition was very sudden,” I am from broken English, sa kap fet, “I wouldn’t be where I am today without the the U.S., Ronald says, “It all started at NCC.” Brien McMahon Medical Academy Experience at 2019-20 Charles Royce Merit Scholar Claudia says, and she tried to adapt and con- and patois experience I had at NCC,” Ronald Telemarque NCC, a part of the nursing club, and I work as Major: Computer Science tinue using online resources and the material (Ma bule in the distance says of his incredible trajectory. From losing his a personal care attendant, aiding someone who her professors provided to stay on track. “The skills I learned while studying at From one brother to the next) High school graduates enrolling at NCC have home and business following an earthquake suffered a brain injury with physical therapy, Outside of school and work, Claudia has a I am from the empty home the opportunity to apply to two scholarships in Haiti to attending Norwalk Community activities of daily living, and communicating. creative and entrepreneurial side. Using original When supervision was a burden created especially for them—the Bigelow College, graduating from Columbia University NCC, combined with my math skills, The NCC Foundation bolstered the tran- drawings she sketches, she sells printed t-shirts My twin and I are old enough to watch Foundation/Briggs Scholarship and the Charles and launching a career in the U.S., Ronald has sition from my past life as a defective student on her own Etsy store, Arrowhead Artworks. the house Royce Merit Scholarship. Claudia Moses was always persevered through adverse circum- are the ones that I’m using in my But not enough to enroll in kindergarten who nearly succumbed to life circumstances, awarded the latter for the 2019-20 academic stances with kindness, generosity, and resolute From what happens at home stays at home to setting an example of growth to others like year. A resident of Stamford, Claudia says the “The scholarship from the Foundation resilience. career and in the job I’m doing now. I am from beatings for me to remember me, and becoming an advanced practice regis- decision to enroll at NCC was an easy one. “I Arriving in Stamford with limited English Out with the bad habits and in with the good tered nurse like my uncle. I am making my can get a great education here and it won’t has helped a lot. I’m very grateful following the natural disaster in his home I am from rhetorical you-don’t-know- mother proud. leave me in debt,” she explains. Her goal is to country, Ronald immediately began working a It all started at NCC.” where-it-is’ major in computer science and computer day shift at Fairway Market and a night shift because I can focus on my studies From would-you-have-asked-if’s “The scholarship . . . allowed me to cut security, and eventually transfer to a four-year at Walmart to support himself. Working all day — Ronald Telemarque Especially when food was the inquiry college to complete a bachelor’s degree in and night quickly took a toll. Realizing he needed I am from toxic twins cyber security. “The scholarship from the NCC right now, and on saving towards the to improve his English and pursue a better Vitriolic words and generous fists back on hours at work and concen- Foundation has helped a lot,” Claudia says. future, he found Norwalk Community College. The foundation of apathy and disdain “I’m very grateful because I can focus on my next step, which will be completing At NCC, Ronald was able to launch his path I am from kingdoms on school buses trate more on my academics. It also studies right now, and on saving towards the forward. “When Ronald came to NCC, he saw Where suspension usurped my throne next step, which will be completing my an opportunity and seized it with drive and I am from the grizzly sin of sloth served as a nod of affirmation to my bachelor’s.” my bachelor’s.” enthusiasm,” recalls Diane Donavon, Director from mom’s acceptance of c’s Claudia’s interest in computer science of the NCC Tutoring Center. She first met Ronald To below a 3.0 just will not do began in high school when she joined a club — Claudia Moses when he visited the Center, and recognized I am from I cannot do it personal and academic development.” called, “Girls Who Code.” The group invited a he was a gifted student. It wasn’t long before To I can only get better college student speaker to talk about her Ronald quit his jobs outside of NCC, and started From disorganization is my flaw — Malik Lauture experience pursuing a major in the tech field. working part-time in the Tutoring Center, To accepting what is within my control

20 21 “ It would be impossible Scholarship + Program Funds Scholarships for me to be where I am now without your big hearts. You can’t give any $1.8 bigger gift to anyone than the gift of education. We are grateful to our donors for General Scholarships/Golden Promise Mark Hattenbach Memorial Scholarship Program Funds Thank you very much.” establishing and supporting the Geneva Walsh Scholarship Mary Bauer Nursing Scholarship 2.8-3.4 Scholarship Coaching following endowment and temporarily George C. Turner Memorial Scholarship Matthew LoRusso Scholarship — Binod D. Archeology restricted funds. Goodnow Scholarship Maurice Godin Law Scholarship Art Department Equipment GOPIO-CT Scholarship Max R. and George J. Lepofsky Scholarship Million Scholarship Funds Art Department Gallery Hammant Memorial Art Scholarship McLean-Kearney Family Scholarship AV Equipment “ Your donations make a differ- Access to Education Scholarship Harlan and Lois Anderson Family Michael G. Weyer Scholarship Biology Department Volunteer Mentor Albert L. Hadley Scholarship Foundation Scholarship Michael Wilens and Carolyn Longacre ence. Thank you for choosing Blanche Kent Archaeology America 911 Scholarship Harry H. Hefferan, Jr. and Catherine Scholarship Building One Community to support and encourage Ann Chernow Art Scholarship Hefferan Scholarship Mickey and Brooke Callanen Scholarship and Success Career Connections the education of NCC students. Ann P. Rogers Scholarship Helen C. Whitten Scholarship Molly Scholarship 71% Career Services Anne Ireland Memorial Scholarship Hiranandani Scholarship Morrise Wagner Transfer Scholarship Without your scholarship, Coach Hours Charlotte Cowie Human Services Memorial Anonymous Scholarship Hobart P. and Alice B. Pardee Scholarship Nancy Doyle Scholarship I would have acquired more of Full-Year Conway Benson Meth Scholarship Ilene and Irving G. Calish, Sr. Scholarship Near and Far Aid Scholarship COVID-19 Emergency Beverly Miller Orthwein Scholarship James Bissell Memorial Scholarship Nicholas Trivisonno Scholarship student loan debt, but with Center for Science, Health and Wellness Bigelow Foundation/Briggs Scholarship James E. Deaver Memorial Scholarship O’Hara Family Scholarship this, I am on a strong path to Recipients Culinary Arts Projects Calvin Loss Scholarship James R. McCormack Memorial Scholarship Olivia Vlahos Scholarship Dr. William H. Schwab Chair in Technology finishing with almost no debt.” Carl Mirbach Memorial Scholarship Jamie Earle Memorial Scholarship Panwy Foundation, Inc. Service Learning Early Childhood Education Carle C. Conway Scholarship Jane Corbo Scholarship Scholarship — Shannon A. Work Entrepreneurship Carolyn and Gerry McGrath Scholarship Jean Svalgard Memorial Women’s Pauline A. Toner Nursing Scholarship , English as a Second Language 1 140 Charles J. Trantanella, Jr. Memorial Scholarship President David Levinson LEAP Transfer Everett Baker Library Development Scholarship Joan and Ed Barksdale Scholarship Scholarship Frank and Anne Cary for Student Success Charles M. and Jessica B. Shaeffer John and Patricia Rayner Scholarship Raindancer Foundation Scholarship “ You have allowed me to Grove Ely Single Parent Emergency Scholarship John A. Ball Scholarship Richard and Barbara Whitcomb IT Equipment Charles Royce Merit Scholarship John and Catherine Vigilante Scholarship Foundation Scholarship focus on the most important Japanese Studies Charlotte Chen Scholarship John and Charlotte Suhler Scholarship Richard T. Hansen Memorial Scholarship Library Claire L. Helsing Scholarship John E. Schmeltzer Memorial Scholarship RN to BSN Transfer Scholarship Harlan and Lois Anderson Family feature of school, which is Crane Scholarship John Fiske Boorom Memorial Scholarship Robert and Jeannie Kay Armstrong Foundation Technology and Innovation Croaning/Van Dyke Scholarship for Child John H. Heher Memorial Scholarship Scholarship Lumina String Quartet Residency learning. Your generosity has Development Lab Students Joseph I. Shulman Memorial Scholarship Robert Garland Memorial Scholarship Nursing/Allied Health 61% Cross Business Scholarship Joseph Karpowich Memorial Scholarship Rose S. Becker Memorial Scholarship Nursing Emergency motivated me to push myself Darlene Ryan Goodwin Scholarship Josephine Lindenmayer Gierer Scholarship S.E. Daley Scholarship Increase in scholarship Path 2.0 Debbie Klaff Katz Scholarship Jules Lang Scholarship Sachiko S. Liebergesell Scholarship Physical Therapy even further and harder.” Donald and Virginia Miller Scholarship Karen L. Veitch Memorial Scholarship Stacy M. Israel Scholarship REAL (Reaching Excellent Academic Levels) spending in last 5 years Doris Bucky Scholarship Katherine Hall Browne Memorial Sylvia Schudy Scholarship — Olexandr K. SoNo Collection Retail Certificate Dr. Harry L. Trambert Memorial Scholarship Scholarship The 460 Foundation Scholarship Student Emergency Dr. John K. Fisher Scholarship Katy and Professor John Dolhun Scholarship The Harrington Family Scholarship Student Success Dr. Lia Mondo Scholarship Kenton Clarke Scholarship The Jan Malone Scholarship Summer Bridge Math Intensive “ Being a full-time student Dr. Mary W. Brackett Scholarship Lawrence Cavanagh and Eleanor Riemer Thomas G. Norko Scholarship The Food Pantry @NCC Dream Transfer Scholarship Dream Transfer Scholarship Toni Anne Laufer Scholarship and babysitting just to Students Awarded Scholarships Theodore J. Nussbaum Mentoring Dugan Family Scholarship Le Bal d’Ecole Scholarship UBS Scholarship Veterinary Technology pay for my books and Eileen Heckart Scholarship LEAP Transfer Scholarship Virginia and Malcolm Crawford Scholarship Elizabeth Raymond Ambler Trust Leon and Fanny Hirsch Scholarship Wetmore Family Scholarship schooling is very stressful. Scholarship Leonhardt Scholarship William M. Mommaerts Memorial Entrepreneurship Scholarship Lewis R. Mintz Scholarship Scholarship This scholarship will help Fernandez Family Scholarship Lifetime Learners Institute Scholarship William Pitt Scholarship Frank C. Lee Memorial Scholarship me pay for everything, and Mandel Family Scholarship Women in Management Scholarship Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation Vocational Marcia Jane Le Moult Memorial Scholarship Workplace Internship Scholarship Scholarship I am extremely grateful.” Margaret Jane McAuliffe Scholarship Zimmel Family Scholarship GE Capital Scholarship Marion and Justin Glickson Transfer — Madison G. General Nursing Scholarship Scholarship

22 465 23 express concerns about dropping out of school, more than grateful to have received it, thank awarded money to the ESL program. Thanks to Coaching Makes “I stay with them,” Pracilya says. “I’m never NCC Foundation you so much. I’m going to keep studying hard to its commitment over the years, NCC has been a Difference for going to say, that’s a terrible idea. I want to hear, Builds Community become a respiratory therapist.” able to build a special learning lab, as well as what are the pros and cons of this decision? provide dedicated instruction and resources $50,000 from Brookfield Properties to run I’m here to support you. I can’t make a student that made the NCC ESL Center a launching pad Students Partnerships the SoNo Collection Retail Certificate Program. stay, but I can have the conversation with them, for student success. Every year, ESL students are A multi-year commitment with an emphasis and help them see what the benefits of com- Collaborating with organizations whose able to transition to college credit courses, and The NCC Foundation is proud to award on recruitment in the South Norwalk commu- pleting their degree are.” missions and work aligns with the NCC Foun- after graduating, some students have gone on scholarships to hundreds of NCC students nity, this program trains entry-level sales and dation’s core focus on student success has en- to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees. every year. Money alone, however, is not the service associates in learning valuable skills Joshua Cam abled our programs at the college to grow and only determining factor in student success. related to front-line work in retail. $9,000 from Near & Far Aid for NCC student NCC Graduate, Class of 2019 thrive. The grants awarded by the businesses The student-to-advisor ratio in Connecticut’s scholarships. Near & Far Aid works to eliminate and community foundations below are vital $30,000 from Everett Bulkley Trust to support community colleges has been estimated at Joshua Cam participated in the NCC Founda- poverty in Fairfield County by funding programs to the work we do. We are grateful for their the operations of the NCC Foundation. This 900:1. For 65% of our students, neither parent tion’s coaching program and successfully that seek to achieve lasting change. commitment to supporting students at NCC. year marked 30 years of consecutive support completed a bachelor’s degree, and nearly graduated from NCC last year. He transferred from the Everett Bulkley Trust. We are honored $5,500 from New Canaan Community Foun- 45% of students are the first in their family to to Southern Connecticut University to purse $60,000 from Tudor Foundation to support the to celebrate this incredible milestone. Over the dation to support the Summer Bridge Intensive attend college. For these students, there is a bachelor’s degree, and cites the value of the operations of the NCC Foundation. By granting years countless lives have been transformed Math Program and provide student scholar- no one at home to advise them as they make coaching program. unrestricted dollars, Tudor Foundation affirmed thanks to the Everett Bulkley Trust’s enduring ships through the Sapienza Block Grant. consequential decisions such as choosing “Coaching definitely made a difference the NCC Foundation’s stewardship to direct commitment to students at NCC. their major, which classes to take, or the best when I was at NCC. I was relieved to have $5,000 from People’s United Community Pracilya Titus the funds to the areas of greatest need. Their steps to pursue a potential career. someone to speak to, especially towards my $20,000 from Pitney Bowes for the Summer Foundation to support the Summer Bridge NCC Student Retention Specialist and gift directly impacted NCC students and paved The NCC Foundation has addressed this business endeavors as well as academics. Bridge Intensive Math Program. Pitney Bowes Intensive Math Program. People’s United is a Success Coach a path for greater success for our scholarship by establishing coaching programs for scholar- and the Pitney Bowes Foundation have sup- long-time supporter of the Foundation, and has Because it’s like, where else could I find that? coaching and academic support programs such ship students where a master’s degree level ported NCC’s education and workforce training contributed to Summer Bridge since 2016. Pracilya Titus, a Student Retention Specialist Maybe there are mentors off campus, but I was as the Summer Bridge Intensive Math Program. success coach delivers individualized guidance initiatives for more than three decades. in NCC’s Student Success Center, served as a a full-time student, on campus the entire day. With so many unexpected changes this year, in the areas of academic advising, study skills, coach in one of the first Foundation coaching I appreciated having the chance to discuss flexible funding from the Tudor Foundation $20,000 from First Niagara Bank Foundation In-Kind Spotlight and career planning. For personal issues, programs. She has seen the full reality of the how I was doing with academics or my career.” proved more critical than ever. for the Reaching Excellent Academic Levels In addition to financial support, organizations success coaches are able to provide referrals student experience. Students struggle with aca- Coaching and academic advising are (REAL) Program. The REAL Program increases $55,000 from Fairfield County’s Community offered in-kind gifts to support students. Pitney to integrated services on campus. Coached demic challenges, course loads, and sometimes proven strategies to provide students with the student engagement, retention, and graduation Foundation (FCCF) to support our responsive Bowes employees ran a special workshop for students are graduating from NCC at higher need to tackle academic remedial programs. support they need to stay in school and grad- rates for underrepresented students that are COVID-19 Student Emergency Fund, Summer students, and in the spring semester, its IT Depot rates than non-coached students, which has Yet, that is only the beginning. “More often uate from NCC. By investing in students transitioning from high school to college. With Bridge Intensive Math Program, and the Coaching Team in Shelton sprang to action, readying 100 prompted the Foundation to continue to it’s outside stuff that trickles down into their through a coaching program, the Foundation’s its focus on mentorship, First Niagara has sup- Program. FCCF is a longtime, dedicated sup- used and reimaged laptops and power cords expand coaching services for scholarship stu- academic experience and really interrupts their goal is to offer more students the individu- ported REAL since the program began in 2015. porter of the NCC Foundation. Its funding has for donation to help students in need of a com- dents. Students who have received coaching ability to succeed for the semester,” Pracilya alized support they need to be successful in allowed us to pilot and grow exemplary pro- $15,000 from Wells Fargo for the Foundation’s puter to complete their spring semester online. regularly affirm the value it brings to their says. “It can be anything from having to work their studies and future careers. grams like the remedial Summer Bridge Intensive COVID-19 Student Emergency Fund. When NCC’s GE Foundation, another long time supporter, educational experience in feedback surveys. 60 hours a week, to mental health issues, or anxiety and depression. I see our students not Math Program, and allows its continued com- campus closed in March, vulnerable students rallied with 50 computers within days of our understanding their purpose in life and trying mitment to community college students in were cut off from vital services such as the comp- announcement that we were starting a laptop “Coaching has been extremely help- to figure out what choices to make. They have Fairfield County affirms the lasting impact of uter lab, food pantry, counselors, coaches, fund for students in response to the closure of to make decisions about their majors or career higher education, and the vital role of NCC and advisors, and tutors. Aid provided through the computer lab at NCC. its Foundation. FCCF’s COVID-19 Resiliency Fund the NCC Foundation’s Student ful. I was going through a hard time plans, and they feel pressure when they do not understand how to make those decisions.” also provided valuable assistance in the spring Emergency Fund kept students to NCC’s students who were disproportionately connected to NCC and con- in my personal life, and if it wasn’t Pracilya sees her role not as the decision maker in these cases, but as a steady source hit by the impact of the pandemic with job loss, tinuing their studies while the of support. “I’m a tugboat tugging along with caregiving responsibilities, and technology campus remained closed and for my coach, I would have dropped you,” is how she describes her approach. “I try challenges associated with online learning and classes moved online. Wells to remain consistent with students, let them the closure of NCC’s computer lab. Fargo quickly stepped in during this unprecedented time to two classes. Our personal and mental feel that I am here. Consistency over time builds $50,000 from the Frederick A. DeLuca Foun- offer its support. trust. It’s really about empowering students dation to support scholarships. The DeLuca to advocate for themselves.” health really impacts our perfor- Foundation’s mission to provide youth and $10,000 from First County Even for high-achieving scholarship stu- adults the tools to achieve independence and Bank Foundation for the dents, this is critical when crises emerge for self-sufficiency is exemplified by its longstanding English as a Second Language mance in school. I think highly about students, and they risk putting their education support for the NCC Foundation, with funds (ESL) Program. A true neighbor on hold. “Money alone does not keep students dedicated to student scholarships. One recipient to the college in every sense in school, because whatever is going on in their this program and my coach.” of a DeLuca Foundation Scholarship this year (there is a branch down the life, if they feel like they can’t see their way out told us, “I don’t know how I would’ve been road from our campus), this is of it, those issues will impact their academic — NCC Foundation Scholarship Recipient able to continue paying for school without this. the 15th consecutive year First NCC’s Dean of Student Affairs Kellie Byrd Danso, Ed.D. (right) distributes performance,” Pracilya says. When students This scholarship is a life saver for me, and I am County Bank Foundation has donated laptops to students.

24 25 Joan M. Karpowich Jeffrey L. Kenausis Bridgewater Scholars Share the 2019-2020: A Year of Giving Richard and Christine Koch Mr. Neal Konstantin Secret of Success Ali and Brian Kreiter Taryn Laeben The women of Bridgewater Associates want to Dr. and Mrs. David L. Levinson share their success with high-achieving NCC women Peter Love interested in business. In an innovative pilot program Catherine Lucia and Chris Durante designed to build professional skills in a group men- Ambrish and Anita Mathur toring setting, Bridgewater Scholars successfully Mercer completed a spring program designed to provide Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Milne III Inisfad Foundation, Inc. Honorable Fellows ($2,500+) Deanna and Andre Guilbert Molly Moseley role models and skill building for women at NCC. Every Gift Makes an Matthew and Julie LoRusso Vasso Gyftopoulos John Allis III Katharine B. Mountcastle The five-part workshop series focused on the fields Ann S. Mandel The Darrell Harvey Family Impact on Student Steven S. Berizzi Jennifer Murphy of business, finance, and related programs of study Pitney Bowes Foundation, Inc. Foundation, Inc. Success Robert and Mary Campbell Mr. and Mrs. Scott Oakford with 16 women from Bridgewater Associates. With Ritter Family Foundation Gillian and Simon Hornby Carlson & Carlson Inc. Eleanor O’Neill workshops targeting key business skills identified The work of the NCC Foundation would Stanley Family Foundation Richard and Janice Juchniewicz Erin and Joseph Catapano Mr. and Mrs. Peter B. Orthwein Bridgewater Associates employees and NCC students first not be possible without you, our generous Mr. William Malone as areas of need by NCC women and coaches, small Claire L. Helsing Foundation George B. Post gathered at both the NCC and Bridgewater Associates and loyal supporters. Your contributions Exceptional Fellows ($10,000+) Alison and Sean Martin groups of women met at NCC, at Bridgewater, and campuses (above), and later continued their meetings Jennifer and Bobby Croswell Price Financial Group, LLC impacted the lives of hundreds of John Massengill via Zoom (beginning in March) with a hands-on on Zoom (below). Anonymous James and Christine Dart Tom and Marianne Reifenheiser students, and we are grateful for your Michelle and Michael Mauboussin experiential program designed to build networking David and Eunice Bigelow Foundation Dorothy and Frank L. Savage Rostar Filters commitment to NCC. Foundation skills, interviewing skills, and culminate in the develop networking skills,” Tatsiana Petushok Louise Blackman Family Foundation Family Fund Suzanne Corey-Sahlin and Kevin and Nancy McCormack said. “Each workshop gave us unique information Mark and Deborah Blackman Barbara Erdmann Photography Gunnar Sahlin delivery of a personal “elevator speech” designed Trustee’s Circle ($1,000,000+) F. Gerard McGrath Foundation First County Bank Foundation, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Douglas O. Felt C. W. Schellenger to build self-confidence and advocacy. about the business environment and guidelines Barbara Murphy Harlan and Lois Anderson Family The Maurice Goodman Foundation, Inc. Ann and Carl Goodnow Charles and Margaret Shaeffer One memorable workshop featured partici- for professional and casual communication at Vincent and Beverly Murphy Foundation Ms. Deborah McLean and Julene and Simon Greenshields William E. Shaeffer pants in a Zoom call making “small talk” before an networking events.” Laurie and John Orem Mr. Keith Kearney Haffenreffer Family Fund Hon. Michael E. and Marilyn L. Shay interview. Another featured tough questions asked The NCC Foundation is proud to offer to Chancellor’s Circle ($300,000+) Catherine James and Louis J. Paglia National Emphysema Foundation Hobbs Family Foundation Charles and Charlotte Stabinsky our students unique advising models such as the Mr. and Mrs. William P. Pardee in an interview. Role-playing with humor, wit, and Anonymous Ellen H. Petrino Liebergesell Foundation, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Christopher A. Stack Leonard and Carolin Peterson vulnerability were mainstays. A highlight was a role- Bridgewater Scholars Program that provide the Douglas and Janice Arrol (Legacy) Carol and Carl Pforzheimer Peter and Laurie Maglathlin Fortunato and Albe Stanziale J. M. Pierpont Charitable Fund play of challenging job interview scenarios, where guidance and support that are essential factors for Pitney Bowes Inc. New Canaan Community Foundation Laura and Chuck Taylor Dawn Robertson each NCC student had to quickly articulate eloquent student success. Regents ($100,000+) Praxair, Inc./Linde O’Herron Family Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Arthur E. Trotman Ritta Rosenberg answers to best position themselves before the The Foundation is grateful to Julie Johnson, Wells Fargo Foundation (Annie and Jon Burleigh) Darie and David Verelley Karen M. Casey Mr. and Mrs. Charles Royce NCC Foundation’s Board Director, for Rick Woolworth, Barbara and David Polacsek Gary and Rosemary Vervoort interviewer. Throughout the role-play, they were Carle C. Conway Scholarship Foundation Susie Salomon Distinguished Fellows ($5,000+) Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey A. Rubin Kathleen Walsh and Gene Bernstein being observed by the rest of the group, who subse- founder and President of Telemachus, and especially Fairfield County’s Community Heather and Andrew Schoff Anonymous Rob Schlein and Emily Kroenlein Helen C. Whitten quently provided constructive criticism. In feedback, the Bridgewater women for volunteering their Foundation Silverleaf Foundation Dr. Michael Clain and Dr. Debra Clain The Sexton Family Foundation Deb and Seth H. Wohlberg the NCC students recounted that this experience time and experience to support our NCC students. The Per and Astrid Heidenreich Family Summer Hill Foundation Sheila E. Daley Foundation, Inc. Vertus Robin and Dick Woods allowed them to gain personal confidence and We hope to use this model to bring to other corpo- Foundation Mrs. Claire M. Swinnerton Charles and Judy Eaton at The Tokeneke The Honorable Terrie Wood and rate groups to support NCC students who could use Mr. and Mrs. Charles Trantanella Norman Toy improve their professional communication skills. Foundation Mr. Jay Wood Medalion ($100+) Kathleen Walsh and Gene Bernstein At the conclusion of the workshop series, one the benefit of a professional and life “coach” to guide Robert and Elizabeth Ellis Family President’s Circle ($50,000+) Dr. Susan G. Weinberger Anonymous (3) of the nine NCC scholar participants said they them through their professional development. Foundation Friends of the College ($1,000+) The 460 Foundation Michael and Ann Marie Wheeler Fund Mrs. Lois Aime had achieved their most valued objectives. “We If you are interested in bringing a mentorship Nancy and Daniel Fleming Berkley Family Foundation Anonymous The Alvord/Proksa Family all have reached the main goal of the mentorship program to your company, please reach out to the Mrs. Anna Franziska and Anne and Peter Ardery Brookfield Properties Mentor ($500+) Marianne Antezzo program: to improve business confidence and NCC Foundation at [email protected]. Mr. Richard Allen Haight The A. James Bach and Vona Joseph Armah Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation Anonymous David Himmelreich Hopkins Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Robert Arnold Ms. Alyse D. Stearns Emily and Rico Arocha Julie Johnson and Doug Reid William H. Banks III Linda and Gene Autore Tudor Foundation, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. David F. Ball Lifetime Learners Institute, Inc. Livia DeFilippis Barndollar Mr. and Mrs. Richard Bain Jr. The Richard and Barbara Whitcomb Monica and Todd Billeter Lone Pine Foundation, Inc. Carrie Bernier and Terence Petti Guy Everett Baker Foundation Stephanie Brown MBI, Inc. David and Diane Boston Family Alexandra Baudouin The Windmill Foundation, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. William T. Calder Mr. and Mrs. James Metzger Foundation Mr. and Mrs. George P. Bauer Elizabeth S. English Near & Far Aid Foundation William F. and Susan E. Brock Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Bell Dean’s Society ($20,000+) Joseph Fucigna G. M. and Elizabeth O’Connell Ana and Tomas Chadwick Ronald C. Bell Anonymous The Gibbons Foundation Oppenheim Family Fund Mrs. Henry S. Coleman Ann Bello Joan and Ed Barksdale Mary J. and Peter S. Given People’s United Bank Foundation Ed and Theresa Cosden Blair and Craig Bijou Everett Bulkley Trust Sarah and Tom Guilbride The Piccaro Family Charitable Fund Oraine and George Dittmar Judith B. Block Mrs. Richard N. Cohen Lisa and Jon Haas George and Lynn Reilly Laura and David Erickson Mr. and Mrs. Stephen S. Boeschenstein Collective Impact Opportunity Fund Charlotte Hart and Timothy Massad The Schloss Family Foundation Noradeen Farlekas Ann J. Bowling at Fairfield County’s Community Ms. Maria W. Hemmings John and Charlotte Suhler Jennifer Frazer and Steve Phillips Mr. and Mrs. H.P. Boyle Foundation Jalna E. Jaeger, RN BSN Tiller Family Foundation Josephine L. Gierer Heather and Hugh Boyle First Niagara Bank Foundation Heather James Willard Wolff Rita and Leo Greenland Family Ms. Christine Branford The Goodnow Fund Robert M. and Maria S. Johnston Foundation Julie M. Brown

26 Lucy Brown Anne S. Hummel Heather and Todd Raker Jill and Rick Woolworth Toni Livingston In Memory of Professor Ron Bealer Andersons Leave a Legacy at Emily and Scott Brown Sara and David Hunt Denise Rawles-Smith Phyllis Weihs-Yavner and Steve Yavner Jane Lubin Edward Gratz Ms. Kimberly Bryant-Smith IBM Corporation Mr. and Mrs. John E. Rayner Ms. Carol Yoder Joseph Keith Lupton Jean W. Zaccardo NCC with a $1.5 Million Gift Louise Buono Laura Ingraham Jane W. Ready Walter and Lynn Maginnis In Memory of Allen Beckman Marion L. Burke Carolin Isaacs-Sigal Martha Rhein Family Foundation Founder (Up to $99) Roselyn Mangot Former Board of Director Harlan Anderson left a philanthropic legacy Elaine, Lester, and Harry Sharlach LaVerne M. Burzynski Francoise and Richard Jaffe Amy and Saul Richman Pearly Aberin Mr. and Mrs. Paul Messanelli throughout Fairfield County and beyond. Anderson was a strong BWI Pensacola Pod Christine Japely Gregory Riley Amazon Smiles Sandra and Matthew Miklave In Memory of Margaret Brown believer in education and his generous support for Norwalk Community Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Cacace Polly Perkins Johnson Martha Robbins Joan Asheroff Patricia Najamy Marilyn L. Collis College programs and students demonstrated this commitment. His Maura Callahan Lauren and Michael Jordan Ann P. Rogers Patricia Baird Chibuzo Ndokwu In Memory of Henry S. Coleman Jim Cameron and Mimi Griffith Fund Ana M. Jusino Drs. Henry Rosenberg and Mr. and Mrs. David Ballard Katya Ortiz life was forever changed as a result of his own education, and he was Mrs. Henry S. Coleman Bonnie M. Capell John and Michele Karpowich Katherine Hicks Jennifer Barahona Blanche Parker dedicated to providing that opportunity to others. Lauren and Phil Capen Dana Karpowich and Raymond Joan Ross Mr. Fred M. Barr Marla Parmett In Memory of Kathy Croaning Following Harlan Anderson’s death in January 2019 and Lois Jane Carlin and Ben Gifford Mainville The Eric and Laurie Roth Elaine M. Baruno Deysy Pelaez Gene and Carol Kopfmann Anderson’s death in May 2017, their daughter, Sue Anderson, reached Jenine Carlson Gary Karvelis Charitable Fund Michelle Bason Frank Phillips out to the NCC Foundation to discuss a major gift in the areas that Mary Frances Carmell Dr. Laurie Katz Giovanni Sammarco Rudy Bennett Aura Pineda In Memory of Jean C. Ely were most important to her parents. Focusing on technology, the Brian Carrager James and Shannon Kear Katharine Sanger BIC Group Daniela Posada Carmona Molly Downing Tom Cassara Dennis Kemp William M. Saunders nursing program at NCC, and reducing obstacles to student success, Janet Bowes-Marek Kathleen M. Prince Linda and Douglas Felt Mr. and Mrs. Henry Cavanna Jacqueline Labatt-Simon Eric and Lesley Schless Dr. Mobin Rastgar Agah Mr. and Mrs. William C. Glenn the generous $1.5 million dollar gift to the NCC Foundation was Donald Burr Ms. Leslie Cenci Nicholson and Phoebe Lamdin Sarah Lyden and John Schmidt Carmody, Torrance, Sandak, and Raytheon Corporation Laura Ingraham invested in major programs that were close to Harlan and Lois James L. Christenson Kate and Steve Larson Carolyn Schwab Hennessey, LLP Ms. Carol A. Reilly Emily and BJ Jones Anderson’s hearts. Elizabeth Colonna Richard Lavatori Marianne Scipione Lepre Rita Caruso Geoffrey Rezek Lyndsay Kancher The award was designated as follows: Jed and Cornelia Costello Carol Lederman Suzanne Scott Ann Chernow Kim Rider David D. Lindsay $1,000,000 dedicated to Technology and Innovation. The Foun- CPG Architects & Planners Tara and Rob Levinson Mr. and Mrs. Richard Seclow Marilyn L. Collis Nancy Roath Erica and Andrew Merrill Tracy Cramer Steven Lieberman Heather and Bryant Shain dation plans to improve educational opportunities for students in Robert V. and Kathleen D. Coppola Jericha Robinson Jane W. Ready Luba and Greg Csernica David D. Lindsay Elaine, Lester and Harry Sharlach Katharine Sanger technology, computer science, and digital enterprises by expanding Ralph E. Costanzo III Mr. and Mrs. Michael Rodell Estelle Dattolo Matthew Mainelli Susan S. Shulman Jennifer Covello Susan Seidell Barbara and Konrad Streuli the current Makerspace to create “Innovation Hubs” to promote Jo Ann W. Davidson Megan and Mike Malone Ally Sinclair Sarah and George Craft Rhoda Shapiro Mr. and Mrs. Arthur E. Trotman digital fabrication and media skills, as well as enhance student collab- Lynn M. and Robert W. Dennis Ms. Christine Mangone Melissa Slattery Mary Jane Damato Nancy Sheed In Memory of Constance Jaeger, M.D. oration. The Makerspace will be renamed The Harlan E. and Lois J. Miranda DeSantis Barbara May Robert Smalley Raphael R. D’Ambruoso, Jr., Ph.D. Angie Spanoghe Jalna Jeager, RN, BSN Anderson Center for Technology and Innovation. Daniel Dirrmar The McCarthy Family Foundation Marcelle Soviero Denise Daych Sheena Stapleton Mr. Bruce Dixon Jonathan McMenamin-Balano Amanda and J. P. Spatola $250,000 dedicated to a new Infant Care Center at NCC in The Child Delta Air Lines Foundation Trevor Stonefield In Memory of Joseph Karpowich Bart Donahoe and Cathleen Donnelly Bonnie and Robert McNamara Melissa Starin Alan Dubrow Antoinette M. Syrotiak Joan M. Karpowich Development Lab School (CDLS). The current facilities at the CDLS Diane Osele Donovan Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Meany Jayme Stevenson Amy Ewing Pamela and David Teitelman John and Michele Karpowich will be expanded to add an infant care center to accommodate infants Amy Downer Erica and Andrew Merrill Pat Stoddard Fairfield University Al Thomas Laura and Chuck Taylor in a licensed learning environment. The expanded facility will be Molly Downing Christy Meznie Ingeleiv J. Stovner Mr. and Mrs. Joseph M. Ferraro Ms. Miriam Tomasova Daria and David Verelley named The Harlan E. and Lois J. Anderson Infant Care Center. Thomas Duffy Pamela and Albert Miller Charles and Marion Strauss Caroline Ferraz Ms. Carmelita Valencia-Daye Elizabeth and Jake Dwyer $250,000 to upgrade the Center for Science, Health and Wellness Tameika G. Miller Barbara and Konrad Streuli Joan Fitzsimmons Kathleen A. Walsh In Memory of Lazarus L. Lampros Jean C. Ely Claire and Daniel Mocarski Anne Swallow Simulation Laboratory. Brandis E. Flash Beverly J. Wiltshire Katherine M. Lampros Dr. and Mrs. J. Thomas Failla Ms. Hannelore Moeckel-Rieke Lauren and Harris Swenson Joseph Franceski Ms. Colleen Wood Mr. and Mrs. William J. Filip James and Barbara Moltz Charlotte and Andrew Symons In Memory of Marcia LeMoult Marilyn and William Frank Ms. Jennifer Wood Heslin Bonnie and Alex Fleming Victoria Moran Denise Teicher Gene and Carol Kopfmann Marlene and Francois Gaberel Sarah Woodbery Mr. and Mrs. Charles P. Flynn Hugh and L.K. Murdoch The Causeway Agency, LLC Scott and Traci Gentry Jean W. Zaccardo In Memory of Calvin Loss Deborah Frankel Mary Lou Murphy Mr. Briggs Tobin Mr. and Mrs. William C. Glenn Dr. Henry Rosenberg and Ms. Jane Freeman Frank W. Murphy Cornelia and Nathaniel Toothaker Peter Gould Katherine M. Hicks Carole B. Fucigna Briana and Dave Nachman Madeleine and Kevin Treesh Greg Grab Matching Gift In Memory of Jan F. Malone Michael and Ellen Funck Terri and Thomas Nackid Chef Jeffry Trombetta Bernadette Gray Mr. William Malone Mr. William Gallagher, Jr. Peter Napoli Dr. Harvey and Carole Tuckman Clair Jacobi and Luis Guaman Companies Kay and Jay Garrett Network for Good Tanisha Tyson David M. and Wendy W. Guda Delta Airlines In Memory of Austin Donald Massoni Tish Gibbs and Bill Collins Greg and Sue Neumann Carl Urbania Gordon Hanssen GE Foundation The J. M. Pierpont Charitable Fund Joan Gilson Isabelle Nichols Alex and Judy Urquhart Linda Hart Pitney Bowes, Inc. James Giroir Peter I. O’Hara and John Garofalo Nancy and Peter von Euler Joan M. Henderson Praxair, Inc./Linde In Memory of James McCormack Mary J. and Peter Given Mr. and Mrs. James O’Leary Vos Family Fund Nataliya Hnedko Kevin and Nancy McCormack Steven Glazer Emily and Josh Overbay Karen and Bob Waldvogel Mr. Peter J. F. Hussey In Memory of Lea C. Mintz Catherine Gleeson Panwy Foundation, Inc. Richards H. Walker Elizabeth Johnson Gifts in Memory Jennifer Barahona William Goltsos Adam Panzer Sandy and Stevenson Ward Emily and B. J. Jones and Honor Carmody, Torrance, Sandak, and Kimberly Goodwin Bennett and Aimee Pardee Cindy and Steven Warren Mr. Emilio E. Juan Hennessey, LLP Edward Gratz Joan Parris Sarah and George Watts Lyndsay Kancher We appreciate the following contribu- Mr. and Mrs. Bob Dennis Leslie Graves Christopher Patsilelis Ms. Rebecca Wayland Brian Kennedy tions generously given in memory of or Mr. and Mrs. Joseph M. Ferraro Dr. and Mrs. William L. Green Ms. Ora G. Peart Dr. Laurie Weinstein Agbagail Knott in honor of a special person: Deborah Frankel Robert Green Paulette Peterson Joyce Weiser Gene and Carol Kopfmann In Memory Hobbs Family Foundation Harlan and Lois Anderson in 2007 in the Everett I. L. Baker Library at NCC Robert Harris Phillips Family Fund Robert Welch Richard and Karen Kotchko William Hass Leslie Popkin Kelley Wilkins DeGennaro Dr. Laurie Katz Katherine M. Lampros In Memory of Karen Aylward Mrs. Lisa and Dr. Forrest Helvie Olga and Oleg Proteshchak Joanna Williams Richard and Christine Koch Lillian Lampros Ms. Maria W. Hemmings Marianne Scipione Lepre Sarah and Brian Henderson Kelly and Warren Pullen Rebecca Wilson Linda P. Lerman and Catherine Lucia and Chris Durante Dr. Anne Hermans Ann Purcell Lance Winer Rabbi Jeffrey M. Silberman In Memory of Everett I. L. Baker Terri and Thomas Nackid Rita Horowitz Sarah Qualman, Ph.D. Wendy Winnick Baskin Elizabeth Linehan Guy Everett Baker 29 Late Charles Trantanella, Jr.’s Peter I. O'Hara and John Garofalo In Honor of Erin Catapano Mr. and Mrs. Peter B. Orthwein Praxair, Inc./Linde The Legacy Society Ann P. Rogers Legacy Honored with Renewal In Honor of Jennifer G. Croswell Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey A. Rubin Mr. and Mrs. H. P. Boyle of Named Scholarship Eric and Lesley Schless Kimberly Goodwin Susan S. Shulman Professor Charles J. Trantanella, Jr. served for 21 years as chairman Peter and Nancy von Euler In Honor of Trudy Dubrow of the Accounting Program at NCC. He was a teacher and mentor Dr. Susan G. Weinberger Alan Dubrow to many students who went on to pursue their studies and eventually In Memory of Theodore J. Nussbaum In Honor of Noradeen Farlekas become certified public accountants. While it has been a number Joan Asheroff Elizabeth Farlekas of years since his father’s passing, to this day Charlie Trantanella, Carrie Bernier and Terence Petti Members in Memoriam In Honor of Jennifer Frazer Leaving a Lasting Impact Professor Trantanella’s son, continues to receive messages from NCC BWI Pensacola Pod Douglas and Janice Arrol Steven S. Berizzi students. Charlie says, “I still hear from my dad’s former students Tom Cassara on Student Success Mr. Everett I. L. Baker Mary Jane Damato Mary Bauer who tell me how much they enjoyed his classes, and how he inspired In Honor of Anne Hermans The Legacy Society has been established to Oraine and George Dittmar Ms. Grace H. Beckmann them to pursue opportunities in business.” Dr. Laurie Weinstein Noradeen Farlekas honor and recognize those who have made a Mr. Harry W. Berkowitz For years, Charlie and his wife Valerie talked about how one day Ms. Jane Freedman In Honor of Alan Howard commitment to the Foundation through their Dr. Otmar Boser they might add to the scholarship fund that had been set up in Pro- Joan Gilson Helen C. Whitten estate plan. Participation is through a variety Dr. Mary Brackett fessor Trantanella’s name, so that his father’s legacy could continue James Giroir In Honor of Julie M. Johnson of vehicles, including bequests in wills or desig- Dr. and Mrs. Thomas L. Bucky Gillian and Simon Hornby to help NCC students with their education. Rick and Jill Woolworth nation of the NCC Foundation as a beneficiary Ms. Dorothy Caldwell-Marella “This year finally became that ‘one day,’” Charlie explains. “We are Rita Horowitz of an insurance policy, retirement fund, or Mr. Richard N. Cohen IBM Corporation In Honor of Keith P. Karvelis so happy to support NCC through the Charles J. Trantanella, Jr. Memo- charitable trust. Our Legacy Society members’ Mr. Henry S. Coleman Catherine Lucia and Chris Durante Gary Karvelis Mr. Leroy D. Corbo rial Scholarship, and to the newest recipient of the scholarship, Luis vision and generosity exemplify a dedication Joseph Keith Lupton Mr. Donald Cowie Quesada. Congratulations Luis on an outstanding academic career at In Honor of Dr. David L. Levinson to student success. Mercer Mr. Frank C. Ellis Steven S. Berizzi If you have already included the NCC Legacy Donor Spotlight: NCC, and we wish you the best as you continue your education!” Vincent and Beverly Murphy Mr. Emerson Emrich Donald Burr Foundation in your estate plans, we sincerely Luis graduated cum laude from NCC in spring of 2020, and is Terri and Thomas Nackid Mrs. Florence L. Foster Isabel Cristina Graca Tameika G. Miller now pursuing a bachelor’s degree in accounting at UConn School of Peter Napoli thank you. Please consider notifying us so Mrs. Helen-Louise Fullman John and Charlotte Suhler For Isabel Cristina Graca, the decision to become Laurie and John Orem that we can acknowledge your generosity as Mrs. Neal Gilliatt Business. Professor Trantanella’s scholarship will continue to be The Windmill Foundation, Inc. Adam Panzer a legacy donor to NCC Foundation grew out of awarded annually to the Accounting graduate of NCC with the highest a Legacy Society Member (if desired, your Mrs. Evelyn Whitlow Hansen Marla Parmett In Honor of Ann S. Mandel anonymity will be preserved). Ms. Jean Bradley Harper her own American story. “Education is the first GPA who plans to continue their studies towards a bachelor’s degree. Ellen H. Petrino Mr. and Mrs. David F. Ball Ms. Betty F. Herman step,” she explains. “You need that first, and “My father loved Norwalk Community College,” Charlie says. Ann P. Rogers Mr. and Mrs. Peter Maglathlin Members Ms. Stacy M. Israel everything else comes after.” “He loved teaching, he loved his students, and he so believed in the Ms. Rhoda Shapiro The Schloss Family Foundation Anonymous Mr. Frederick E. Kellogg, Jr. Originally from Brazil, Isabel studied law in educational mission of the school.” Melissa Starin Stephen and Susan Bates Ms. Blanche F. Kent her home country and worked there for a num- Vertus In Honor of Peter O'Hara Mrs. Richard N. Cohen Mrs. Martha K. Layman ber of years before deciding to emigrate to the Dr. Susan G. Weinberger Carol B. Fucigna Dr. Kathleen S. Fries Dr. Edward Littman U.S. After she settled in Norwalk, she eventually Lea C. Mintz In Memory of Louise and Arthur O'Hara In Honor of Peter and Ellen O’Hara Mr. William Collins and felt compelled to continue her education. Mrs. Libby J. Nevas Ms. Barbara Murphy Anonymous Mrs. Elizabeth Gibbs “I always say, life can be very tough some- Isabell Graca Harriett Sink Prophet and In Honor of Laurie Orem times, but people can never take away your In Memory of Bersy Pusey Ellen Sue Hattenbach Wilson Brown Prophet, Jr. Diane Donovan Tracy Cramer Mrs. Theodore Schachat education,” Isabel explains. Brian Kennedy Starting in NCC’s ESL department, she In Honor of George A. Reilly Jules Lang, Esq. Budd S. Schwartz In Memory of Jessica B. Shaeffer moved on to college-level courses, and in 2010, Mr. and Mrs. Christopher A. Stack Dr. David and Mrs. Evan Levinson Mrs. Jessica B. Shaeffer Charles and Margaret Shaeffer completed a legal assistant associate degree. Elaine Littman Ms. Pauline A. Toner In Honor of Amy Richman In Memory of Robert Shulman Catherine Lucia Ms. Marion Underhill “I was so, so proud on graduation day,” Isabel Pitney Bowes, Inc. Pamela and David Teitelman Ann S. Mandel Olivia Vlahos says. “This was my dream, and I had achieved my Mr. Charles Monaghan Ms. Morrise R. Wagner goal. It’s not easy you know, doing a degree in a In Memory of Malcolm Skeeter In Honor of St. Anthony Mr. John W. Roberson Mr. and Mrs. Edward H. Walworth, Jr. Gregory Riley Deysy Pelaez second language, but I had done it.” Charlie Trantanella (left), then a college Ann P. Rogers Recently, when she began to consider her In Honor of Carolyn Y. Thomas student himself, with his father, Professor In Memory of Geneva Walsh Mr. Jeffrey A. Rubin legacy, Isabel immediately recalled her time at Charles Trantanella, Jr. (right), in the Kathleen Walsh and Gene Bernstein Ambrish and Anita Mathur Gary Vervoort fall of 1985 NCC. She decided that through a named scholar- In Honor of Stuart F. Weismiller ship, she would enable future generations to In Honor Bonnie McEneaney McNamara follow in her footsteps. “Getting a college edu- In Honor of Joan Barksdale In Honor of Helen C. Whitten cation in America is not easy,” Isabel says, citing Kathy and Peter Sachs Linda L. Hart the high cost and debt that students face as Dr. and Mrs. William Green obstacles to enrolling. “But I really want students In Honor of Carrie Bernier to be able to choose the major that is right for Emily and Rico Arocha them, so they can pursue a career path and a Linda and Gene Autore rewarding life.” Professor Trantanella in the early 1980s The Piccaro Family Charitable Fund in front of his car, with the license plate Kelly and Warren Pullen reading “Prof T” 31

In Memoriam: Lea Mintz

In April this year, the NCC community lost a tireless advocate of the college, Lenore “Lea” Mintz. A Lifetime Director of the NCC Founda- tion, Lea steered the growth of the college for more than 60 years, and was a dedicated and passionate voice on the NCC Foundation Board of Directors. She has forever left her mark on higher education in Fairfield County, and our community will miss her dearly. In 1965, Lea became a founding member of the Friends of Norwalk Community College, which later became the Norwalk Community College Foundation. She always liked to joke that NCC was her “fourth child,” and she was involved in the development of the College since its inception in 1961. Always passionate to share ©2020 Norwalk Community College her beloved college with everyone in her commu- nity, Lea created NCC@Meadow Ridge when she Photography: moved to the senior living community Meadow “Lea served tirelessly on behalf of the Ridge. The unofficial annex is an educational Madeline Barillo: pp. 2, 14 (lower right), 15 (middle left), 17 (bottom) program with a series of courses taught by NCC faculty for residents. The program was extremely College and dedicated herself to the Carrie Bernier: p. 12 successful, and a major source of pride for Lea. Richard Freeda: cover, pp. 8 (middle), 9 (top), 16, 24 (top) Lea was dedicated to the mission of the mission of the NCC Foundation. Lea’s Trevor Stonefield: pp. 3, 6, 8 (top), 13 (top), 15 (top; bottom NCC Foundation to promote affordable and right), 17 (top), 21, 24 (bottom), 31 accessible college education for all members of brilliance will continue to light the Cynthia Zaref: p. 32 the community. She endowed two scholarships at Norwalk Community College—one in honor Contributed photos: inside front cover, pp. 4, 5, 8 (right), of her late husband, the Lewis R. Mintz Schol- world even though she is no longer 9 (bottom; right), 10, 11, 13 (middle; bottom right), 14 (top; middle left; bottom left), 20, 27, 28, 30 arship Fund, and one for high-achieving female business majors, the Women in Management among the living. We will continue to Scholarship Fund. Lea was a member of the Project Management: Trevor Stonefield NCC Foundation Legacy Society, and was an carry out her legacy at NCC.” Design: Cynthia Zaref outspoken advocate of the importance of the Writing: Madeline Barillo, Carrie Bernier, Trevor Stonefield, NCC Foundation. Cynthia Zaref In a profile for the 2018 annual report, Lea — Dr. Susan G. Weinberger, NCC Foundation Board Vice President and long-time friend of Lea Mintz Copy Editing: Nichole Bernier, Catherine Lucia reflected on her legacy at NCC. “I am proud to have played a role in bringing this wonderful Printing: GHP, Inc., West Haven, CT community college resource to the greater Norwalk community,” she said. For ambitious Norwalk Community College does not discriminate on the basis men and women who face challenges on their of race, color, religious creed, age, sex, national origin, marital status, ancestry, present or past history of mental disorder, learn- path to success and productivity, NCC helps to ing disability or physical disability, sexual orientation, gender further the goal of achieving higher education. identity and expression or genetic information in its programs I am grateful to the NCC Foundation for advanc- and activities. In addition, the College does not discriminate in ing innovative and high-quality opportunities employment on the basis of veteran status or criminal record. for students.” The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Affirmative Action/ EEO Specialist Robert Mozdean at [email protected]; or Coordinator of Student AccessAbility Services Fran Apfel, Ph.D. at [email protected]. 32 ______Norwalk Community College ______188 Richards Avenue ______Norwalk, CT 06854-1655 ______(203) 857-7060 ______www.norwalk.edu ______Norwalk Community College Foundation, Inc. ______188 Richards Avenue, Suite E311 ______Norwalk, CT 06854-1655 ______(203) 857-7260 ______www.NCC-Foundation.org ______