<p>Westport, CT - Westport has always been a town of people who love books and love to read. Now, the town’s readers can help select the winner of the third annual Westport Prize for Literature.</p><p>The Westport Prize is looking for readers to help vet manuscripts for its 2025 honor, which it plans to award this fall in conjunction with StoryFest, the annual literary festival held at The Westport Library.</p><p>Those interested can volunteer via the form on&nbsp;<a href="https://westportlibrary.org/westport-prize-for-literature/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">The Westport Prize for Literature homepage</a>. Readers must be Westport residents.</p><p>Readers are expected to read two to three manuscripts and then submit their feedback via an online form. (There is an opportunity to read more books if you have time to do so). The results of that review will help determine which finalists advance to a select, independent jury that will decide the 2025 prize.</p><p>The Westport Prize for Literature is an annual prize “established to honor an original work of literary fiction that is both relevant and timeless.” In 2023 it was awarded to acclaimed author&nbsp;<a href="https://westportlibrary.org/zadie-smith-to-be-honored-at-the-westport-library-with-inaugural-westport-prize-for-literature/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">Zadie Smith</a>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<em>The Fraud</em>, and last year&nbsp;<a href="https://westportlibrary.org/freedom-is-a-feast-wins-2024-westport-prize-for-literature-author-alejandro-puyana-to-be-honored-at-storyfest-at-the-westport-library/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">Alejandro Puyana</a>&nbsp;was honored for his dazzling debut novel&nbsp;<em>Freedom is a Feast</em>.</p><p>The prize is overseen and administered by a steering committee of Westport resident volunteers, with the jury selecting the winner and the Library hosting the award celebration.</p><p>Story link:&nbsp;<a href="https://westportlibrary.org/calling-all-readers-help-select-the-finalists-for-the-2025-westport-prize-for-literature/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">https://westportlibrary.org/calling-all-readers-help-select-the-finalists-for-the-2025-westport-prize-for-literature/</a></p><p><strong>About The Westport Library</strong></p><p>Founded in 1886, built in 1908, and transformed in 2019, The Westport Library is one of the most active and innovative public libraries in the nation, devoted to enriching the intellectual and creative lives of the community. Among its many highlights are a full collection of books for children, teens, and adults; an engaging and colorful Children’s Library; a MakerSpace; a Library of Things; a Seed Library; a robust café and store; and professional art installations that rotate throughout the year. The Westport Library is also home to Verso Studios, replete with an SSL hybrid analog sound studio and broadcast control suite featuring a state-of-the-art console and six robotic cameras, and the Trefz Forum, an open, flexible space that can accommodate up to 600 patrons and features an 18-foot video wall, 35-foot stage, state-of-the-art sound, and theatrical lighting. Situated in the heart of downtown Westport overlooking the scenic Saugatuck River, The Westport Library annually hosts StoryFest, the largest literary festival in Connecticut, and VersoFest, its multi-day music and media festival. Above all, the Library strives to serve the whole community as a vibrant gathering spot where people of all ages come to seek information, gain knowledge, exchange ideas, and share experiences. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://westportlibrary.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">westportlibrary.org</a>.</p><p><strong>About the Westport Prize for Literature</strong></p><p>The Westport Prize for Literature is an annual prize established to honor an original work of literary fiction that is both relevant and timeless. The prize is overseen and administered by a steering committee of Westport resident volunteers, with an independent jury selecting the winner.&nbsp;The prize is open to an author of an original work of long-form fiction published in the United States each calendar year (between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2025, for the 2025 prize).&nbsp;For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://westportlibrary.org/westport-prize-for-literature" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">westportlibrary.org/westport-prize-for-literature</a>.</p><p><br></p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong>FC Buzz Weekend January 17-19</strong></p><p>HamletHub is proud to partner with the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County and FCBuzz to Elevate Arts and Culture in Fairfield County! Each week, look for a listing of weekend events and activities. The Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County celebrates the vibrancy and diversity of the arts and culture across 15 towns in coastal Fairfield County. Sign up to receive a free eBuzz newsletter with top picks and spotlight events from the hundreds of events posted on FCBuzz.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/free-opening-reception-for-masc-unmasking-identity-redefining-masculinity" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>MASC: Unmasking Identity, Redefining Masculinity</strong></a></p><p><strong>The Norwalk Art</strong></p><p>Friday Jan 17, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm</p><p>The exhibition examines the metaphorical "masks" worn to navigate a world rife with stereotypes and cultural pressures. MASC challenges monolithic notions of masculinity, offering a nuanced exploration of strength, vulnerability, and self-reclamation. Each piece invites audiences to witness the delicate balance between the external personas shaped by societal expectations and the authentic selves seeking liberation and visibility.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/free-concert-anthem-reggae-band-presented-by-the-klein-and-bridgeport-public-library" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Anthem Reggae Band</strong></a></p><p><strong>Klein Memorial Auditorium</strong></p><p>Friday Jan 17, 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm</p><p>Come and vibe with the most harmonious sounds of the millennium. Anthem Band’s live shows rank with the best in the business. It’s a truly original sound that is creating a big wave. From roots to dance hall, Anthem can play it all and with their own diversity. This is truly a treat for all music lovers. Anthem has appeared with Sister Carol on the Conan O’Brien show &amp; and has played at the Ronald Reagan center in Washington DC for the NBC, NBA All Star Game after party. Anthem has toured Korea, Japan, Guam, Hawaii, Bermuda, Canada, St. Croix, etc. Anthem has also performed on shows with Third World, Yellow man, Jimmy Cliff, Big Mountain, The Wailers, Burning Spear, Black Uhuru, The Neville Bros, The Temptations, Freddy Jackson, George Benson, The Isley Brothers, Maxi Priest, Buju Banton, Capleton, John Holt, Ken Booth, Dennis Brown, Super Cat, Gyptian and many more.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/who-s-bad" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Who's Bad</strong></a></p><p><strong>Stamford Center for the Arts</strong></p><p>Friday Jan 17, 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm</p><p>Who’s Bad’s live performance is an unrivaled celebration of pop music’s one true King. Their power-packed performance of Michael Jackson’s expansive catalog has ignited crowds on every continent and can only be described as a jaw-dropping, musical must-see. As the longest-running Michael Jackson tribute band, and the only one to predate his untimely passing, Who’s Bad has awed even the skeptics, selling out nearly 50 venues in the United Kingdom including London’s O2 in December of 2010, the venue where the King of Pop was slated to end his career with a 50-show “This Is It” concert series.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/cabaret-comedy-series-8b099" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Cabaret Comedy Series</strong></a></p><p><strong>Downtown Cabaret Theatre</strong></p><p>Friday Jan 17, 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm</p><p>Exclusive nights of stand-up comedy featuring a rotating lineup of top-notch comedians. Each show brings a unique blend of wit and humor to the stage, promising unforgettable evenings of laughter and good times. Grab your tickets now and join us for a comedy experience like no other!</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/rowayton-arts-center-from-the-rac-studio-0a3d7" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>“From the RAC Studio”</strong></a></p><p><strong>Rowayton Arts Center</strong></p><p>Friday Jan 17, 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm</p><p>This all media exhibition features over 100 pieces of artwork by RAC Instructors and students created in the past year. RAC celebrates the study, creation and appreciation of the arts through classes, exhibitions and events open to all in the community. For over 60 years, this nonprofit organization has been a cultural gem in Rowayton.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/new-year-new-members-our-annual-new-member-exhibit" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"> <strong>New Year-New Members Annual New Member Exhibit</strong></a></p><p><strong>Loft Artists Association</strong></p><p>Saturday Jan 18, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm</p><p>Featuring recent work of five new Loft Artists members. The exhibition includes work from; Chantal Disler, Jeff Hyman, Christine Kwon, David Pollard, Marc VanDermeer.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/meet-the-author-an-afternoon-with-anna-marie-tendler" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Meet the Author: An Afternoon with Anna Marie Tendler</strong></a></p><p><strong>Pequot Library</strong></p><p>Saturday Jan 18, 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm</p><p>Join New York Times bestselling author Anna Marie Tendler for an important and timely discussion regarding gender, mental health, and more. Her new memoir, Men Have Called Her Crazy, was recently released to rave reviews from New York Magazine, The New York Times, and The Washington Post.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/easton-arts-council---2025-winter-celebration-of-the-arts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>2025 Winter Celebration of the Arts</strong></a></p><p><strong>Easton Public Library</strong></p><p>Saturday Jan 18, 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm</p><p>This event will celebrate the artists presenting in the Members Art Show. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet local artists, enjoy their work, and socialize with others who appreciate the arts. The reception will feature live music and refreshments.</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/will-downing-in-concert" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Will Downing in Concert</strong></a></p><p><strong>Klein Memorial Auditorium</strong></p><p>Saturday Jan 18, 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm</p><p>One of today's greatest R&amp;B vocal talents performs at Tbe Klein on January 18th. Stay after the concert for dancing to the beats by DJ Al Taylor</p><p><a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/events/acts-of-beauty---a-celebration-of-community" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);"><strong>Acts of Beauty - A Celebration of Community</strong></a></p><p><strong>Jim Felice Studios/Trailer Box Project</strong></p><p>Sunday Jan 19, 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm</p><p>An open house in the studio, art work on display in the Gallery, and Live Music in the Studio featuring two bands!</p><p>See these and discover hundreds more events on the <a href="https://events.culturalalliancefc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">FCBUZZ EVENTS</a> page at <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://culturalalliancefc.org</a> Sign up for the <a href="https://culturalalliancefc.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cultural Alliance eBuzz</a> to receive top picks and spotlights each week in your inbox.</p>

<p>Simsbury, Connecticut&nbsp;- Group travel in the U.S. is gaining popularity heading into 2025, and for good reason, says Tyler Zajacz, President of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.toursofdistinction.net/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(25, 106, 212);">Tours of Distinction</a>, a Connecticut-based tour operator with over 50 years of experience. “Group travel combines affordability, convenience, and meaningful shared experiences, making it an increasingly appealing travel option,” Zajacz explains.</p><p>According to the U.S. Travel Association, group room demand in the top 25 U.S. markets grew by 9%, and 93% of leisure travelers plan to travel within the next six months, up from 90% at the end of 2024. Several factors are driving this trend, with cost-effectiveness leading the way. “Group travel offers significant savings,” says Zajacz. “From discounted airfare and shared motorcoach costs to reduced hotel rates and group pricing on activities, it allows travelers to enjoy bucket-list trips without overspending.</p><p>Another key driver is the growing desire for authentic, shared experiences. “People value creating lasting memories with family and friends – old and new, and group trips provide the perfect opportunity for these connections,” Zajacz notes.</p><p>Group travel also eliminates much of the stress associated with trip planning. “We handle everything—from logistics to accommodations—so travelers can simply enjoy the experience,” Zajacz shares. Tours of Distinction even assigns a professional Group Tour Director to each trip to ensure every detail goes smoothly, a convenience that appeals to travelers.</p><p>Additionally, group travel offers an added sense of security, particularly for international trips or unfamiliar destinations.</p><p>As preferences shift toward experience-driven travel, the rise of group travel reflects a growing desire for affordability, ease, safety, and connection. This upward trend shows no signs of slowing, offering travelers more opportunities to explore the world—together.</p><p><strong>About Tours of Distinction</strong></p><p>Since 1971, Tours of Distinction<a href="https://www.toursofdistinction.net/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(25, 106, 212);">www.toursofdistinction.net/</a>&nbsp;has been crafting unforgettable travel experiences for mature adults. From relaxing day trips to epic 7-14 day national and international adventures, we specialize in small-group guided tours designed to make every moment distinctive. For us, travel isn’t just a business—it’s a way of life that fosters connection, curiosity, and community, both at home and across the globe. Let’s make your next journey extraordinary and distinctive!</p>

<p class="ql-align-center"><strong>SOUTHPORT, CT </strong>–<strong> </strong>Trinity Spiritual Center will host an in-person conversation and live stream event with acclaimed poet and world-traveling priest the Rev. Canon Spencer Reece on Thursday, February 6th at 6:30 PM.&nbsp;This special event is open to all members of the community regardless of religious affiliation.</p><p>Rev. Canon Reece will discuss his fascinating life journey as a Brooks Brothers sales associate, a poet-priest healing orphans in Honduras, a national secretary to the Episcopal bishop of Spain, and a priest-in-charge of a parish in Queens decimated by COVID.&nbsp;He will demonstrate to participants how poetry is a way of looking at your life and finding meaning through the lens of wonder. &nbsp;</p><p>The Rev. Canon Spencer Reece is currently the Rector of St. Paul’s Wickford, Rhode Island.&nbsp;Born in Hartford, CT, Reece’s journey into the priesthood was elliptical. Though his journey began in his twenties, it was postponed as he patiently developed his craft as a poet, publishing his first collection of poems at the age of 41 while working in retail.&nbsp;This life experience along with his service among at risk populations as a member of the clergy makes him the perfect ambassador for demonstrating how poetry can work through us to lift us up and connect us with the divine in our daily lives.</p><p>Reece is a graduate of Wesleyan University, where he majored in English Literature and studied with Annie Dillard. He holds degrees from the University of York in the United Kingdom, Harvard Divinity School, and Berkeley Divinity School at Yale. His poetry was chosen for the Bakeless Poetry Prize by Nobel laureate Louise Glück and adapted into a short film by director James Franco. He has been awarded fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts.&nbsp;</p><p>“In my life, I have been a priest, a salesman, a store assistant manager – the poems get written at home while I’m doing the dishes,” observes Reece. “This double focus on the particulars of life is how we find meaning and wonder in our most ordinary moments, which is the essence of poetry.”</p><p>“Trinity Spiritual Center is delighted that Father Spencer will join us in Southport to share his insights as to how poetry can deepen our understanding of the mysteries of life,” says Mark Grayson, its Founding Director. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to sit with Spencer to learn how we can all work with poetry to enrich our daily lives.”</p><p>Copies of several collections of the Rev. Canon Reece’s poetry will be on sale at this in-person event.&nbsp;An author signing will follow. &nbsp;</p><p><strong>WHAT: </strong>"Restoring the Spirit: Poet-Priest Rev. Canon Spencer Reece</p><p><strong>WHEN:</strong> Thursday, February 6^th at 6:30 p.m.</p><p><strong>WHERE: </strong>Trinity Episcopal Church Parish Hall, 651 Pequot Avenue, Southport, CT</p><p><strong>COST:</strong> $25</p><p><strong>REGISTER: </strong>All are welcome.<a href="https://poetryofdailylife.eventbrite.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://PoetryofDailyLife.eventbrite.com</a></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">QUESTIONS: </strong><a href="mailto:mrkgrsn@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">mrkgrsn@gmail.com</a></p><p><strong>About Trinity Spiritual Center</strong></p><p>Trinity Spiritual Center is a dynamic&nbsp;and growing community of people of all ages and beliefs, engaging in a broad range of learning experiences to inspire and support their own journeys of spiritual growth.&nbsp;It offers programs and practices that inspire and engage the greater community.&nbsp;Trinity Spiritual Center is pleased to be partnered with Trinity Episcopal Church. &nbsp;</p><p><strong>About Trinity Episcopal Church</strong></p><p>Trinity Episcopal Church is located in the historic seaside district of Southport at 651 Pequot Avenue (at Center Street) and welcomes seekers of all denominations. Trinity’s mission is to provide a vibrant 21^st century Episcopal community that inspires spiritual growth, nurtures genuine connections, and promotes charitable service.</p>

<p>FAIRFIELD, Conn.—Sacred Heart University’s engineering students will soon be experts on the advanced technological tools being used in manufacturing around the country, making them even more qualified to excel in the industry if that is where their paths take them.</p><p><a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.IeNJgsWRFduklcosJj7MilnEHTn9op5II8vxrh9uQeeep4qA7GoNR2SLAAAB1zIMN1JC0VdE-2Fc46ARvBpMSX-2Bg-3D-3DQNx2_FrbdBNjFDoEa-2F9q6J5rbxTv-2FYob5s2OonmKskZDAI3GbhEJtfSPFgoDWHq8Bubs2uS2iETCIFkazkr2vsQt5zP8tZqSrdLReTPnffLPp1eIja2d2KKQnzOnkBTIkERgznCL9QzuLzmJFkkd6kEC9NtGfbHlYfaoNTOTXHR4KGR40aiXMlrPHcHKykEKU6CFCdn9VGmVJ24oPzTzz2vyKDMKQ3Q9N7mK0njP0kEn0eHKRwJLueoKk-2FQ0wz6odXXPU33sVnRZZY7TvmYOqarEC9C-2BHJuMeFq6Fd6-2FV1oafjV1u0TokTWMQEfhgu8lFuwIVrsNpXITsfJcNExJ4-2FXTOG6zjifxD9zsQM6FHFXQ01kifDpzLFAtyY6DRBpbEP3on" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(74, 110, 224);">Tolga Kaya</a><span style="color: rgb(14, 16, 26);">, a Sacred Heart University professor in the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.IeNJgsWRFduklcosJj7MilnEHTn9op5II8vxrh9uQedF9yhOnVXbxzo8bdCqCiYxmYjXTNsG1-2Bv1zp8g9eDothYVBgrVbHj2UpamYF8IH4jhzfvyyVDO0SEK8U09jjx7I928SbXf1UyAPjlfyC8jWQ-3D-3Ddrsj_FrbdBNjFDoEa-2F9q6J5rbxTv-2FYob5s2OonmKskZDAI3GbhEJtfSPFgoDWHq8Bubs2uS2iETCIFkazkr2vsQt5zP8tZqSrdLReTPnffLPp1eIja2d2KKQnzOnkBTIkERgznCL9QzuLzmJFkkd6kEC9NtGfbHlYfaoNTOTXHR4KGR40aiXMlrPHcHKykEKU6CFCdn9VGmVJ24oPzTzz2vyKDP9QdpVwpkAtUvaxziw8NpOfuMYtRzgnntZ5DqIk2WAOCQAX02G7XTVzzuB8w1NThKTXiTOovH5e8PFSLS9CK242-2F7c9vMdTTolBavRAk1B-2B4IKjP4RdIz78H0Nt3NHtW9QweJI3l4nR-2BraMxQbJ0mXz760CS7ARpbVNVn-2Bcu0m6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(74, 110, 224);">School of Computer Science &amp; Engineering</a><span style="color: rgb(14, 16, 26);">&nbsp;and director of SHU’s engineering program, is part of a group that is leading efforts to merge evolving industry technology with what is being taught in college and university classrooms. Selected for a&nbsp;</span><a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.IeNJgsWRFduklcosJj7Miu41wMzJWVtZ5wfT94vCbsM-3DzKTq_FrbdBNjFDoEa-2F9q6J5rbxTv-2FYob5s2OonmKskZDAI3GbhEJtfSPFgoDWHq8Bubs2uS2iETCIFkazkr2vsQt5zP8tZqSrdLReTPnffLPp1eIja2d2KKQnzOnkBTIkERgznCL9QzuLzmJFkkd6kEC9NtGfbHlYfaoNTOTXHR4KGR40aiXMlrPHcHKykEKU6CFCdn9VGmVJ24oPzTzz2vyKDEc6Qx20uGjtIKx-2BZLvZ1EMatFBbI265N0hB1I80Chb8TevmSDvOz2rSc7z5Wdicug8gMr4TmeJVj-2FdRe-2FaREFs5X8t5Rr9qM2IqV3e5swylaCGK9bdqWFzVF4-2FCdKm07kEqXvMdYo0t2R-2B2aaukYAjDGHumJpyF0luqiDF8Y61-2B" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(74, 110, 224);">Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology (CCAT)</a><span style="color: rgb(14, 16, 26);">&nbsp;fellowship, he has positioned himself to teach students to use the latest technology in a modern manufacturing world.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(14, 16, 26);">The CCAT’s Faculty Fellowship Program in Digital Transformation will enable Kaya and SHU students to explore an array of new possibilities and learning experiences. “With this fellowship, I will bring cutting-edge practices and tools into the classroom,” Kaya said. “I will connect my students with the latest manufacturing concepts, along with the industry collaborations I build throughout the fellowship.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(14, 16, 26);">“In addition to reaching current students, I hope to create lasting curriculum improvements, certification programs and industry collaborations that will continue to benefit future cohorts and strengthen the bridge between education and industry,” he added.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(14, 16, 26);">The fellowship begins Jan. 17 and includes representatives from nine Connecticut colleges and universities. The innovative program is designed to immerse faculty members in advanced manufacturing technologies and Industry 4.0 practices—a phase in manufacturing that uses digital technologies and more efficient processes—with the goal of integrating these state-of-the-art industry methods, practices and tools into Connecticut classrooms.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(14, 16, 26);">Fellows will participate in Industry 4.0 technology training and then incorporate those methods and practices into the curriculum at their institutions. They also will participate in curriculum development workshops.</span></p><p><a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.IeNJgsWRFduklcosJj7MirqSqYR4-2BVzCHtZYoMdoLIYYebt8cffVPFuU7-2BgRwjVtojMK_FrbdBNjFDoEa-2F9q6J5rbxTv-2FYob5s2OonmKskZDAI3GbhEJtfSPFgoDWHq8Bubs2uS2iETCIFkazkr2vsQt5zP8tZqSrdLReTPnffLPp1eIja2d2KKQnzOnkBTIkERgznCL9QzuLzmJFkkd6kEC9NtGfbHlYfaoNTOTXHR4KGR40aiXMlrPHcHKykEKU6CFCdn9VGmVJ24oPzTzz2vyKDFB9y2yPoqG7QoyvTPT6GQeRzvqM0876PbiiTGFrfB8uccoAZto0g52ge-2BDcaK4dGR5G2FxGtcn0FBkN6GVqFJ0cufT06TfvMguObeDyJgU63U-2FeATeVOlauhP-2Fa-2Bw4FdJFpImI-2BrudtY9rSaBoXwdLUI1G3VvKNBzUCABGkHL5-2B" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(74, 110, 224);">Ron Angelo</a><span style="color: rgb(74, 110, 224);">,&nbsp;</span><span style="color: rgb(14, 16, 26);">CCAT president and CEO, stressed the importance of the fellowship in today’s engineering landscape. “At CCAT, developing and training talent is not just a priority, it’s the cornerstone of our mission. By collaborating with this year’s fellowship participants, we are enhancing their expertise to shape curriculum and elevate the next generation of digitally ready talent, ensuring they are skilled in the latest technology and are fully equipped to meet the demands of the ever-evolving future of manufacturing,” he said.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(14, 16, 26);">In a CCAT press release, Paul Lavoie, Connecticut’s chief manufacturing officer, said the Connecticut Office of Manufacturing aims to accelerate the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies, with a focus on digital transformation, robotics, industrial automation and artificial intelligence. “The faculty fellowship program will provide our university professors with a robust knowledge of these technologies that they can integrate into their curriculum, leading to a better-educated workforce in Connecticut,” Lavoie said.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(14, 16, 26);">Kaya was in his classroom when he learned he’d been named one of the fellows, and he immediately began thinking about the projects and partnerships the venture might create for SHU students. “Receiving the fellowship is an incredible honor,” he said. “When I found out, I felt a mix of pride and excitement, not just for myself, but for the opportunities this creates for my students and colleagues.”</span></p><p><strong><em><u>About Sacred Heart University</u></em></strong></p><p>As the second-largest Catholic university in New England, and one of the fastest-growing private doctoral institutions in the U.S., Sacred Heart University is a national leader in shaping higher education for the 21st century. SHU offers more than 100 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs on its Fairfield, Conn., campus. Sacred Heart also has a campus in Dingle, Ireland, and offers online programs. More than 10,000 students attend the University’s eight colleges and schools: College of Arts &amp; Sciences; School of Communication, Media &amp; the Arts; School of Social Work; School of Computer Science &amp; Engineering; College of Health Professions; the Isabelle Farrington College of Education &amp; Human Development; the Jack Welch College of Business &amp; Technology and the Dr. Susan L. Davis, R.N., &amp; Richard J. Henley College of Nursing. Sacred Heart, a Laudato Si’ campus, stands out from other Catholic institutions as it was established and led by laity. The contemporary Catholic university is rooted in the rich Catholic intellectual tradition and the liberal arts, and at the same time cultivates students to be forward thinkers who enact change—in their own lives, professions and in their communities. The Princeton Review includes SHU in its&nbsp;<em>Best 390 Colleges: 2025 Edition</em>, and&nbsp;<em>Best Business Schools: 2024 Edition</em>. Sacred Heart is home to the award-winning, NPR-affiliate station, WSHU Public Radio, a Division I athletics program and an impressive performing arts program that includes choir, band, dance and theatre.&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.3KYkKCumCfJCrG2op2AWQGMH8NA2HszzKFMqxExvHODSk-2BOFF79ZsNqAVERw9U238aAs_FrbdBNjFDoEa-2F9q6J5rbxTv-2FYob5s2OonmKskZDAI3GbhEJtfSPFgoDWHq8Bubs2uS2iETCIFkazkr2vsQt5zP8tZqSrdLReTPnffLPp1eIja2d2KKQnzOnkBTIkERgznCL9QzuLzmJFkkd6kEC9NtGfbHlYfaoNTOTXHR4KGR40aiXMlrPHcHKykEKU6CFCdn9VGmVJ24oPzTzz2vyKDEkljQ-2FsPppJJEKp9BhAVVPAoegwUxVBxxnzKChRTZ-2BXdWaUVP4HPJ5QUKnYc57LQ4zIHAbHpryW9iZfaZdoO5tfpvHBagbl263-2FpFP8iGkI4gU5Ol6TtcANt90hOYaOw-2F19e5P9v-2FNqb6NEL67XpnOizcx0VO6FJvsgdH2ocity" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">www.sacredheart.edu</a></p>

<p>FAIRFIELD, Conn. — Fairfield Dolan’s MBA program is available 100 percent online or in a hybrid format. The MBA program has a 99 percent employment rate post-graduation, and offers flexible concentration options as a STEM-designated degree.</p><p>Dolan’s #23 MBA ranking by Poets &amp; Quants highlights its academic excellence and strong outcomes, placing it in good company among strong business school programs like Wake Forest University (#25), Villanova University (#28), and the University of Connecticut (#33).</p><p>"This recognition highlights the exceptional caliber of students our STEM-designated MBA attracts, both domestically and internationally. It reflects the cutting-edge, flexible curriculum and the outstanding experience of our online MBA students, leading to professional and personal fulfillment for our graduates," said senior associate dean of the Dolan School of Business, Anca Micu, PhD.</p><p>Poets &amp; Quants'&nbsp;<a href="https://poetsandquants.com/2024/12/16/methodology-behind-pqs-2025-online-mba-ranking/?pq-category=business-school-news" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>ranking methodology</strong></a>&nbsp;of online MBA programs has always been based on three equally weighted categories: admission standards, academic experience, and career outcomes. Out of 57 participating universities,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fairfield.edu/academics/schools-and-colleges/charles-f-dolan-school-of-business/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>Fairfield Dolan</strong></a>&nbsp;stands out, consistently demonstrating excellence in these areas.</p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Fairfield University is a modern, Jesuit Catholic University, rooted in one of the world’s oldest intellectual and spiritual traditions. More than 6,000 undergraduate and graduate students from 44 states, including the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and 43 countries, are enrolled in the University’s five schools. In the spirit of rigorous and sympathetic inquiry into all dimensions of human experience, Fairfield welcomes students from diverse backgrounds to share ideas and engage in open conversations. The University is located in the heart of a region where the future takes shape, on a stunning campus on the Connecticut coast just an hour from New York City.</em></p>