The Emeriti Association meets Spring and Fall each year in the 1877 Club. The agenda includes lunch, a business meeting, and a presentation by university faculty, staff, and students. In the Fall, we award scholarships to three current students (see Scholarships for details).
University of Hartford Emeriti Association Fall Plenary Meeting May 14, 2024
The Emeriti Association Spring Plenary Meeting was held on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, in the 1877 Club. There were 28 members and guests attending in person. Guests included Stephen Mulready, Katharine Black, and Sebby Sorrentino.
Chair Donn Weinholtz welcomed all and introduced ENTWYNED, a musical group who presented Wires, Wind, and Wood: An Exploration of Ancient Irish and Celtic Music. The group is organized by Professor Emerita of Music Education, Demaris Hansen and includes Dee Hansen, Eric Hansen and Neal Humphreys. The group highlighted ancient Irish tunes and historic research from the Edward Bunting Collections first published in 1796. The instruments used in the program were: Celtic harp, lutes, mandolin, Baroque flutes and Viola da Gamba. A video of this presentation can be viewed here.
Donn thanked ENTWYNED for this most interesting presentation and invited all to enjoy the reception and connect with the performers during the reception which was followed by lunch.
Following the reception, Donn commenced the meeting and welcomed the new emeriti faculty in attendance: Nancy Stuart, Hartford Art School (Dean Emeritus); Bharat Kolluri, Barney; and Celia Lofink, Barney; and listed those who were not in attendance: Hiro Fukawa, Hartford Art School; John Willis, Hartford Art School; James Bannister, Barney; Susan Eichar, ENHP; Doris Lang Kosloff, Hartt; Glen Adsit, Hartford Art School and Hartt (posthumously).
We then observed a moment of silence in memory of faculty who passed since the October Plenary: Glen Adsit, Hartford Art School and Hartt; Paul Bugl, A&S; Barbara Intriligator, ENHP; Richard Lugli, Hillyer; and Humbert Lucarelli, Hartt (failed to be mentioned last October plenary).
Ralph Zegarelli shared information about the revised information that will be on the Emeriti website. The details will be in the newsletter and on the website. Patrick Miller, Ann Padano and Ralph worked with Katharine Black, Sebby Sorrentino and Molly Polk concerning the Directory which will now include emeriti.
Harry Workman and Ralph Zegarelli worked with Katherine those who wish to maintain their UH email addresses to be able to do so. This is a good benefit for all of us. Another benefit available to emeriti is Microsoft 365.
Presidents’ College: Michele Troy reviewed the role of the President’s College. She shared information about the new website.
The Presidents’ College would like to get people back to campus. Maybe you would like to be a 2x a semester presenter. The format is rich. A variety of programs are available: Conversations; Silent books; Celtic music. Wide array of topics ranging from a few sessions to longer courses. Ann Padano related her very positive experience with Presidents’ College this year. Forecast for Fall 2024 information will be in the upcoming Emeriti Newsletter. Michelle Troy will be on sabbatical next year. The Art School Dean Emeritus Nancy Stuart will be stepping in to fill the role while Michele is away. The Scholarship Program: Harry Workman reported on the scholarship program. Three recipients at $3500 per student. The recipients will join us for the Fall 2024 Plenary. There were 22 applicants and they were overwhelmingly qualified.
Here are the names and scholarships being awarded:Joseph Lothamer (ENHP), Harrison Emeriti Scholarship, Grace Farland (ENHP), Humphrey Tonkin Emeriti Scholarship, Hilary Bareiss (Hartford Art School), Emeriti Scholarship. Harry encouraged people to give to the scholarship fund.
Treasurer’s Report – Mary Dowst reviewed the report briefly – (a copy of which was distributed at the meeting). We are doing pretty well on scholarship money. Emeriti are not paying their dues, we need to remind people to pay
New Business
- Emeriti dues are being raised from $17 - $25 per year
- John Mehm was proposed as a new emeriti association member. He served as the Director of the PSY.D. program under an administrative contract. Ann Padano shared that he was distinguished in service and all other areas for UH. All voted in favor of John coming into the group.
Acting President Mulready shared his UH history and activities engaged in during his time as acting president. He commented on the state of higher ed, how he feels he did what needed to be done, how he supported families working through the financial aid technical difficulties this year (including zoom calls and videos, etc.). He noted that the birthrate is down 20% from 2007. UH will keep the same number of schools but will share leadership – Hartt and Art; Hillyer and A&S.
Donn adjourned the meeting at 1:11 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Regina Miller, Recording Secretary for the day
Entwyned Video May 14, 2024
University of Hartford Emeriti Association Fall Plenary Meeting October 24, 2023
The Emeriti Association Fall Plenary Meeting was held on Tuesday, October 23, 2023, in the 1877 Club. There were 35 members and guests attending in person. Guests included Stephen Mulready, Katharine Black, Michael Daglio, Rick Zeiser
Elections of Officers: The following slate was proposed: Donn Weinholtz, chair; Dee Hansen, vice chair; Steve Gryc – recording secretary. Sharon Pope moved and Catherine Certo seconded. Slate was approved.
In Memoriam—Remembering deceased colleagues since the May 2023 plenary meeting— Ralph asked for a moment of silence for colleagues who have passed away since the May 2023 plenary - Robert Black-The Hartt School, Dick Dalphin - CETA, Donald Leone - CETA, Frank Lahey - CETA, Michael Panik - The Barney School, Leo Smith - CETA, Donald Sukosky - Hillyer, Dennis Nolan - Art School. A moment of silence followed in their memory. May they rest in peace.
Treasurer’s Report – Mary Dowst – Mary reviewed the report briefly – (a copy of which was distributed at the meeting). She commented that many emeriti are not paying dues and that having more people pay dues would really help. 33% of people pay their dues. She thanked all for their contributions to the Scholarship Fund and encouraged all to continue donating. Ralph thanked Mary for her report.
New Business: Rick Zeiser was asked to leave the room. As a retired staff member, he was nominated to be a member of the Emeriti Association. The group voted to approve Rick as a new member of the association. He returned to the room and was congratulated.
Dues for the coming year will be raised to $20.00. Lunch will go up to $30.00.
Harry and Ralph negotiated to have new emeriti retain their UH email address. As part of the agreement current emeriti that are not using the UH email address will be asked if they are willing to close their UH email account. Emeriti will be contacted to ask if they use the UH email address.
Ralph adjourned the meeting at 1:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Regina Miller, Recording Secretary
Plenary Meeting, October 24, 2023
Plenary Meeting, May 16, 2023
Notes from May 16, 2023 meeting
The Emeriti Association Fall Plenary Meeting was held on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, in the 1877 Club. There were 38 members and guests attending in person. Guests included Jim Shattuck, Jane Horvath, Bob Leve, Alex DeVivo, Katherine Black, and Jamie Skowyra.
Co-Chair Workman welcomed all and co-chair Zegarelli introduced our guest speaker, Bob Leve, psychology professor with a 50-year history at The University of Hartford. Bob has written 4 books, the most current about the complexity of human thought. He is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst: 2001-present (this certification requires extensive qualifications and then passing a four-hour examination. He was the second psychologist in Connecticut to achieve this status.). Bob is involved with The Van Roy Center at UH.
Bob spoke about complexity and pointed out that there must be diversity before things can become complex. He shared history relating to the topic and provided examples of periods of time and different areas that present a richness of thought about complexity. A video of Bob’s presentation will be available on our website (see link below Bob's picture above).
Harry Workman thanked Bob for his most interesting presentation and invited all to enjoy the reception and connect with Bob during the reception.
Following the reception, Harry commenced the meeting:
In Memoriam – Remembering deceased colleagues since the October 2022 plenary meeting – Harry asked for a moment of silence for colleagues who have passed away since the October 2022 - BZ Friedlander, A&S, died February 22, 2023; Wick Griswold, Hillyer College, died January 21, 2023; Gerald Mack, The Hartt School, died in August 2022.
A moment of silence followed in their memory. May they rest in peace.
New Emeriti - Harry shared the names of the new emeriti faculty: Diego Benardete, A&S; Robert Carl, The Hartt School; David Goldenberg, Hillyer College; Jerry Katrichis, Barney School of Business; Lynne Kelly, A&S; Leonard Milling, A&S; Michael Nowak, CETA; Devdas Shetty, CETA; Kenneth Steen, The Hartt School; Fred Sweitzer ENHP; and Lee Townsend, CETA.
Scholarship Committee: Harry Workman – Harry reviewed the procedure for selecting the scholarship recipients. There were many applicants this year. Harry thanked the members of the Scholarship Committee for their service and dedication. Members of the Scholarship Committee are: Harry (Chair), Dee Hansen, Steven Gryc, Sharon Pope, Sherry Buckborough, Leo Smith, Barbara Wolfe, and Ralph Zegarelli.
Harry then announced the scholarship recipients: Nicole Pacquette, Hartt, with a major in Flute Performance, Walter Harrison Emeriti Scholarship; Emily Rutledge, A&S, Mathematics Secondary Education, Humphrey Tonkin Emeriti Scholarship; Anna Leonard, A&S, Psychology has been awarded the Emeriti Scholarship. These awardees will join us for the Fall 2023 Plenary.
Treasurer’s Report – Mary Dowst – Mary reviewed the report briefly – (a copy of which was distributed at the meeting). She commented that the interest on the scholarships is $862 for the first quarter and that the report shows pretty much good news. She thanked all for their contributions to the Scholarship Fund and encouraged all to continue donating. Harry thanked Mary for her report.
Old Business – The Donors Reception was held again in April at the home Of Regina Miller. This was the first reception held since the onset of COVID precautions. Two of the three 2022 recipients attended and were delightful company. These students are very accomplished. All appeared to enjoy themselves. Ralph spoke about the Emeriti Newsletter which has been published every Fall for 7 years. The newsletter was initiated by Mike Kahn who will be honored in one of the articles in the upcoming edition. The lead article will feature Amy Barzach, Executive Director, The Women's Advancement Initiative, University of Hartford.
As space allows there is a lot more information that will be included in this upcoming issue.
Guest Presentations - The first presenter was Alex DeVivo who spoke about UH Planned Giving. The PowerPoint of her presentation is up on the Emeriti website. Michele Troy was the second presenter and spoke briefly about the Presidents’ college. The third presenter was Jim Shattuck who shared information about the work of the UH Retention Committee. The PowerPoint is on the Emeriti webpage. The presentation included process and outcome information to date.
Harry adjourned the meeting at 1:36 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Regina Miller, Recording Secretary
Plenary Meeting, October 25, 2022
Notes from October, 2022 meeting
The Emeriti Association Fall Plenary Meeting was held on Tuesday, October 25, 2022, in the
1877 Club. There were 39 members and guests attending in person. Guests included Mark
Boxer, Executive Vice President, and Chief Operating Officer; R.J. McGivney, Associate Vice
President for Graduate and Professional Studies; Molly Polk, Vice President for Marketing and
Enrollment; Katherine Black, Interim Provost, and our three Emeriti Scholarship recipients.
Co-Chair Zegarelli welcomed all and introduced our guest speaker, Wally Banzhaf, Professor
Emeritus, Engineering Technology, CETA. The title of Wally’s presentation was “Unplanned
Maritime Adventure” and it was most interesting. His talk covered the story of his miraculous
journey that started as a routine mission: Sail from Electric Boat, rendezvous with a submarine, conduct tests, and return home. Twelve men from an EB research vessel did return,
eventually. But they left their ship at the bottom of the Atlantic and brought back only a
question: What went wrong?
Ralph thanked Wally for his most interesting presentation and invited all to enjoy the reception followed by lunch. Following the reception and lunch, Ralph commenced the meeting: Nomination Committee: Leo Smith – The nominees for EA officers for the coming year are: Ralph Zegarelli, Co-Chair; Harry Workman, Co-Chair; and Regina Miller, Recording Secretary. All were officially elected. Mary Dowst will continue in her position of Executive Secretary and Treasurer.
Scholarship Committee: Harry Workman – Harry thanked the members of the Scholarship Committee for their service and dedication. Members of the Scholarship Committee are: Harry (Chair), Steven Gryc, Sharon Pope, Leo Smith, Barbara Wolfe, and Ralph Zegarelli. Harry then announced the scholarship recipients: 2022 Scholarship Awardees 2022 Walter Harrison Emeriti Scholarship Award: Megan Bainbridge, a junior at the The University of Hartford with a cumulative GPA of 3.96, is enrolled both as a sociology major in the College of Arts & Sciences and as a photography major in the Hartford Art School. 2022 Humphrey Tonkin Emeriti; Scholarship Award: Alecsander Boyd is a junior in the Barney School of Business with a double major in the Business Analytics and Managerial Economics program, and the Finance program. He currently has a 4.0 GPA. 2022 Emeriti Scholarship Award: Alexander Hartofelis is majoring in music education at the Hartt School and currently enjoys a GPA of 3.97. Harry then congratulated Megan, Alecsander, and Alexander and introduced them to the group. Each of the students spoke, expressing their appreciation and thanking the Emeriti Association for their scholarship. They talked a bit about themselves, about their involvement with the University, and also their many activities and accomplishments, both within the University and the community. Harry then presented each of the scholars with a certificate, and once again congratulated them and thanked them for joining us.
Treasurer’s Report – Mary Dowst – Mary reviewed the report – (a copy of which was distributed at the meeting). She commented that the emeriti have been generous with money for scholarships. The interest has not been listed yet. Mary noted that all who donate to the Emeriti Scholarship funds will be invited to the Donor Reception to be held in the home of Regina Miller in the West End of Hartford in the spring, date TBA. She thanked all for their contributions to the Scholarship Fund and encouraged all to continue donating. Mary was thanked for her report.
Four guests were welcomed Molly Polk, Vice President for Marketing and Enrollment, Mark Boxer, Chief Operating Officer. Katherine Black, Interim Provost, and R.J.McGivney, Associate Vice President for Graduate and Professional Studies, Division of Student Success, and Administration were all welcomed to the meeting.
Mark and Molly provided updates, Mark shared information about UHART START. https://www.hartford.edu/about/mission-vision/strategic-vision/
- Goal 1 Metrics of Success: Student Profile/Admission; Profile/Engagement Profile/Engagement
- Goal 2: Commit Ourselves to the Success of All Students. Activity related to Goal Two focuses on our commitment to student success during and beyond their time at UHart. We will: Deliver excellent career and graduate placement results for our students and Provide exemplary support services and programs in a safe, nourishing environment. Goal 2 Metrics of Success: Student Success at the University
- Goal 3: Promote a Vibrant, Diverse, Inclusive, and Socially Just Community. Activity related to Goal Three focuses on bolstering our community’s commitment to equality on campus and beyond. We will: Cultivate, develop, and educate an inclusive UHart community. Goal 3 Metrics of Success: Student Profile and Faculty/Staff Profile
- Goal 4: Achieve and Maintain a Sustainable Budget. Activity related to Goal Four will focus on
ensuring our University’s mission and vision stays rooted in sound financial practice. We will: Develop practices that ensure accountability and predictability across campus; Strive for sustained and predictable enrollment that sustains the business model and Create, examine, and enhance revenue streams, including philanthropy. Goal 4 Metrics of Success. Revenue/Expense Management: Alumni Engagement/Endowment Performance - Goal 5: Revitalize the Physical Plant. Activity related to Goal Five will enhance, modernize, and beautify the on-campus experience. We will: Create best-practice learning spaces, residential experience, and facilities and Build a more environmentally sustainable campus. Goal 5 Metrics of Success: Physical Plant and Campus Experience
- Goal 6: Elevate Brand Identity, Positioning, and Strategy: Activity related to Goal Six will advance the profile and reputation of UHart on the global stage. We will: Define and implement a compelling, consistent, and authentic brand identity and Galvanize action by our audiences to meet learning, enrollment, and fundraising goals. Goal 6 Metrics of Success: Brand and Reputation
Molly gave a brief update on the state of the University. Enrollment is great post-pandemic. Increased application volume. 1.5% up for the last 3 years. 1172 was the enrollment goal. UH came in at 1286. All schools are up in enrollment. CETA and ENHP are the stars. Open Houses are critically important. 632 families attended open houses. Scholarship students compete for full or 75% scholarship. Only a few are given but this event draws lots of people to campus to learn more about UH. A lot of new programs: Nursing – brought 115 new students. Business Analytics – 35 new students. Aerospace Engineering – 20 new students and OT brought 12 new students. Another new program is Exercise Science which has 19 new students in the incoming class. There are 116 new student-athletes. High school sophomores and parents are being contacted. A a lot more market research is being done on why those who were admitted did not select UH. The campus looks amazing and Hursey Center is very exciting and well-received. She said that there are so many positives.
Mark Boxer also spoke about the following things: financial sustainability investments reviewed, looking at salaries, partnership with ARAMARK, refreshed 100s of apartments over the summer to create more positive student environments, planning a new track and field facility. When asked about how the endowment is doing? He replied they were not expecting a market downturn.
Old Business – none.
New Business – ARAMARK is instituting price changes. Mark Boxer was able to arrange for the Emeriti Plenary to be charged the same price as in the past. Efforts will be undertaken to make arrangements for future emeriti events and pricing.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Regina Miller, Recording Secretary
Pictures From Plenary Meeting May 17, 2022
Notes From Plenary Meeting May 17, 2022
University of Hartford Emeriti Association Spring Plenary Meeting – May 17, 2022
The Emeriti Association Spring Plenary Meeting was held on Tuesday, May 17, 2022, in the 1877 Club. There were 31 members and guests attending in person, plus two members joined via Microsoft Teams Meeting. Guests included Fred Sweitzer, Provost; R.J. McGivney, Associate Vice President for Graduate and Professional Studies, and a number of our new EA members.
Co-Chair Workman welcomed all and convened the business part of the meeting.
Introduction of Guests and New Emeriti – Harry welcomed and introduced the new Emeriti members present – Catherine Certo, Robert Decker, Robert Duran, Edward Gray, Robert Lang, Patrick Miller, and Anne Pidano.
In Memoriam – Harry asked for a moment of silence for two of our colleagues who have passed away since our last Plenary meeting – Charles Condon and Mary Andersen. A moment of silence followed in their memory. May they rest in peace. Harry reminded the group that Charles had been instrumental in forming the Emeriti Association at the University of Hartford back in 1989.
Recognition of Paddy Cairns for her years of service as Recording Secretary – Harry told the group that Paddy had been Recording Secretary to the Emeriti Association for 16 years and thanked her for her service. He then presented Paddy with a University of Hartford pen in appreciation of her services.
Scholarship Committee Report: Harry Workman – Harry reviewed the procedure for selecting the scholarship recipients. There were 30 applications this year. There are three scholarships given, each in the amount of $3,000. Harry thanked the members of the Scholarship Committee for their service and dedication. Members of the Scholarship Committee are: Harry (Chair), Sherry Buckberrough, Steven Gryc, Dee Hansen, Sharon Pope, Leo Smith, Barbara Wolfe and Ralph Zegarelli.
The recipients are as follows: Alexander Hartofelis, Hartt, will be a senior in the fall, with a major in Music Education, has a 3.97 GPA, has been awarded the Emeriti Scholarship.
Alecsander Boyd, Barney, will be a junior in the fall, with a major in business Analytics/Economics & Finance, has a 4.0 GPA, has been awarded the Humphrey Tonkin Scholarship.
Megan Bainbridge, Art School/A&S, will be a senior in the fall, with a major in Photography/Sociology, has a 3.96 GPA, has been awarded the Walter Harrison Scholarship.
Treasurer’s Report: Mary Dowst – Mary reviewed the report briefly (a copy of which was distributed at the meeting). She commented we were in pretty good shape and said how pleased she is that we are able to give three $3,000 Emeriti Scholarships. There is a hope that we might be able to add a fourth scholarship next year. She thanked all for their contributions and encouraged all to continue donating. Harry thanked Mary for her report.
Old Business – None.
New Business – A. Microsoft 365 – Ralph explained the use of Microsoft 365 by University employees. It is a benefit the University provides to members of the Emeriti Association. Email, Teams, online access to Office applications, and more are part of Microsoft 365. Ralph asked the group if anyone would be interested in receiving instruction to take advantage of this benefit. There was some interest from the group present.
- Newsletter Update – Ralph said that this will be the sixth year the newsletter has been published. He told the group they should receive their copies in the September timeframe and it will also be on the emeriti website. The upcoming newsletter is full of information, including an article on previous scholarship recipient, Anna Pan. The lead article will be by Jane Horvath and Christine Grant about UHart diversity and inclusion. There will be an article about Dana Brooks (scholarship recipient) and her work with Sharon Pope, and articles about Marty Cohen, Stephen Gryc, and Dee Hansen.
Presentation – Walter Harrison – Ralph introduced Walt whose presentation is entitled “The Challenges Facing Higher Education.” Walt said that he would be speaking about the future of higher education, talking generally about higher education, not a crisis, and the history of higher education. Also included in Walt’s presentation was the rising cost of education, intercollegiate athletics, and the threat to big-time athletics. Ralph thanked Walt for a most informative and interesting presentation. Walt’s presentation can be downloaded here.
Fred Sweitzer, Provost – Ralph introduced Fred who gave us a brief update on the University. The title of Fred’s update is “Getting to the Other Side.” There have been enormous pressures on the University – demographic issues, a decline in government support, COVID. The question has been – how to respond?
We ground ourselves in who we want to be. Student commitments are outlined in UHart Start (Goals). Other commitments include those to professional, disciplinary communities, geographic, and society as a whole. Fred discussed the University’s strengths and challenges. Fred spoke of the first wave of investments, which includes academic programs, academic facilities (Hursey Center), student success, and new academic programs. The second wave of investments addresses the student experience – student mental health, Center for Student Success, Career Studio, Division III, DEIJ (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice), residence halls, and track and field (which must be supported and there are plans to add field hockey).
Online learning is growing rapidly. Undergrad enrollment is going well. New deposits are out-pacing withdrawal activity, allowing us to grow. As of May 11, 2022, deposits were at 1189, compared to Fall of 2021, when they were at 1135, and Fall of 2020 at 1193.
Fred said that recruiting is going well, there are more students coming to the University, but the retention rate needs to be better. A lot has been done to make the residential experience a better one, but there is still more to do.
Ralph thanked Fred for being with us and sharing the update on the University.
Respectfully submitted,
Patricia D. Cairns for Regina Miller (Recording Secretary)
Pictures from the October 26, 2021 Plenary Meeting
Plenary Meeting October 26, 2021, meeting notes
University of Hartford Emeriti Association Fall Plenary Meeting – October 26, 2021
The Emeriti Association Fall Plenary Meeting was held on Tuesday, October 26, 2021, in the 1877 Club. There were 29 members and guests attending in person, plus three members were via Microsoft Teams Meeting. Guests included Mark Boxer, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer; R.J. McGivney, Associate Vice President for Graduate and Professional Studies; Molly Polk, Vice President for Marketing and Enrollment; and our three Emeriti Scholarship recipients.
Co-Chair Workman welcomed all and introduced our guest speaker, Desmaris Hansen, Professor Emeritus, Music Education, The Hartt School. Desmaris (Dee) is the author of “One Hundred Years of Hartt” – A Centennial Celebration of The Hartt School. Dee’s presentation was most interesting, with explanations and photos covering the span of years from the founders and their visions to more recent times. Dee mentioned the “University Archives” and stressed what a treasure trove of information is available there. Download Dee’s presentation download pdf here for all to enjoy.
Harry thanked Dee for her most interesting presentation and invited all to enjoy the reception and lunch.
Following the reception, Harry commenced the meeting:
In Memoriam – Remembering deceased colleagues from the past two years – Harry asked for a moment of silence for colleagues who have passed away in the last two years - Peter Breit (A&S), Donald DeBonee (Ward College – now CETA), Margery Gardow, John Gray (A&S), Stephen Misovich (Hillyer), Joseph Voelker (A&S), and Robert Wallace (A&S). A moment of silence followed in their memory. May they rest in peace.
Nomination Committee: John Schloss – The nominees for EA officers for the coming year are: Ralph Zegarelli, Co-Chair; Harry Workman, Co-Chair; and Regina Miller, Recording Secretary. All were officially elected. Mary Dowst will continue in her position of Executive Secretary and Treasurer.
Scholarship Committee: Harry Workman – Harry reviewed the procedure for selecting the scholarship recipients. There were 37 applicants this year. Harry thanked the members of the Scholarship Committee for their service and dedication. Members of the Scholarship Committee are: Harry (Chair), Susan Coleman, Steven Gryc, Sharon Pope, John Schloss, Leo Smith, Catherine Stevenson, Barbara Wolfe, and Ralph Zegarelli.
Harry then announced the scholarship recipients:
Camryn Butera, A&S, with a major in Biology/Pre-Med has a 4.0 GPA, has been awarded the Walter Harrison Emeriti Scholarship;
Dana Brooks, A&S, with a major in Criminal Justice has a 4.0 GPA, has been awarded the Humphrey Tonkin Emeriti Scholarship;
Sydney Lewis, CETA, with a major in Civil Engineering has a 3.92 GPA, has been awarded the Emeriti Scholarship.
Harry then congratulated Camryn, Dana and Sydney and introduced them to the group. Each of the students spoke, expressing their appreciation and thanking the Emeriti Association for their scholarship. They talked a bit about themselves, about their involvement with the University, and also their many activities and accomplishments, both within the University and the community.
Harry then presented each of the scholars with a certificate, and once again congratulated them and thanked them for joining us.
Treasurer’s Report – Mary Dowst – Mary reviewed the report briefly – (a copy of which was distributed at the meeting). She commented that the interest on the scholarships is $3000 and that the report shows pretty much good news. She thanked all for their contributions to the Scholarship Fund and encouraged all to continue donating. Harry thanked Mary for her report.
Old Business – Leo pointed out that for sixteen years, Paddy Cairns has served as recording secretary of the association. In that time, she has produced the written records not only for the plenary meetings but also for the executive committee meetings and that it is rare that a set of minutes produced by Paddy, on review, requires correction or amendment. Leo then moved the following resolution for adoption.
Resolved that the University of Hartford Emeriti Association hereby expresses its heartfelt thanks to Paddy Cairns for her service as Recording Secretary to the Association, and in recognition of a job well done.
The Resolution was unanimously adopted by the membership.
New Business – none.
Molly Polk, Vice President for Marketing and Enrollment – Co-Chair Zegarelli welcomed Molly to the meeting. Molly gave a brief update on the state of the University.
Molly said that the incoming classes are more diverse and also more academically prepared. She feels that things are getting almost back to normal after COVID – two open houses were recently held and were very good. The campus looks amazing and Hursey Center is very exciting and being well received. She said that there are so many positives. On enrollment: This year application and admits across the board overall were up. There is a lot of interest in UHart but it continues to be a very competitive marketplace, with many traditionally more selective schools over enrolling this year due to pandemic uncertainty.
We welcomed about 1100 new undergraduate students this fall. We had losses in International students who were unable to obtain visas with closed embassies, and we hope to see these students able to return in the future. We also had a late melt from incoming student athletes making a different decision following the University’s decision to transition to a Division III athletics model in the future. This transition has been difficult, but there is a lot of early interest from new students interested in playing Division III.
Graduate enrollment is steady, having had a 20% increase over the last five years. There is significant interest and growth in online graduate and certificate programs.
Molly said that they are working on setting enrollment goals for 2022.
R.J. McGivney said retention last year was a record high for the University, following the second highest this past year - ending up at 77.3%, compared to 80% last year.
Molly stressed again how extremely well the University has done through COVID precautions and takes pride in the University community for keeping each other safe and in-person.
Ralph thanked Molly for joining us.
Harald Sandstrom announced that “Hartford Men in Harmony” will be performing on Saturday, November 27, at 7:30 p.m. The event will be held at “Trinity on Main” in New Britain, and he encouraged all to attend.
Harry adjourned the meeting at 1:05 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Patricia D. Cairns, Recording Secretary
May 20, 2021 Plenary meeting
May 20, 2021 Plenary meeting notes
University of Hartford Emeriti Association Spring Plenary Meeting – May 20, 2021
The Emeriti Association Spring Plenary Meeting was held on Thursday, May 20, 2021, via Microsoft Teams Meeting. There were 19 attending, including members and guests. Guests included R.J. McGivney, Associate Vice President for Graduate and Professional Studies; Jessica Nicklin, Associate Vice President for Student Success; and Aaron Isaacs, Dean of Students.
Co-Chair Zegarelli welcomed all to the meeting and introduced R.J., Jessica and Aaron. R.J. said that he and Jess and Aaron would be speaking about the Division of Student Success, its progress and future directions and also include how they dealt with COVID.
R.J. said that when President Woodward arrived in 2017, he indicated he wanted to increase retention and graduation rates by 10-points over a five-year period. The University was at 73% at that time. R.J. said, “Retention drives everything.”
R.J., Jess, and Aaron are known as “the trio” – they have been working together for three years and are the Division of Student Success! They looked at what each one’s responsibilities were and figured out what could go together and how the work should be distributed.
R.J., Jess, and Aaron spoke of their major accomplishments as follows:
The Center for Student Success has proved to be very successful. All the employees who work in the Center for Student Success are people trained to do a little bit of everything. R.J. said that there is a lot of knowledge and history in that building. The Center for Student Success includes a “One Stop Shop” for students including student services, registration, getting answers to financial questions, academic advising, offering help in adjusting to college and ways to get involved. First-year students are assigned an advisor they see once a week, and they also take a first-year success seminar to teach them skills on how to be successful in college.
The Centralized Tutoring Center has centralized all tutoring and writing support. There are three service offerings which include informed decisions; peer support workshops which include working with peers (eight students in a small workshop); and preceptors where student leaders are helping in the classroom.
The Academic Recovery Programs identify students, who have dropped below 15 credit hours or have GPA’s below a 2.0, and offer those students a free winter or summer course to help them. Other modalities include coaching, traditional course or a blackboard self-paced course.
STRIDE – The Success Team for Readiness, Improvement, Diversity and Excellence is a unique program designed to support Black/African American and Hispanic/Latinx students during their first year of college and through their time at UofH. It is an academic success program, which eligible students must apply for once they have submitted their deposit. Space is limited to sixty students. There are many benefits to the program including, being eligible for $1,000 aid for their next seven semesters.
Data informed decisions are so important. The Office of Institutional Effectiveness and their highly skilled staff have done an exemplary job of providing us valuable data so that we can make informed decisions.
The Office of Student Engagement and Inclusion (OSEI) merged several engagement offices into one cohesive department to create a one-stop shop for students to get involved on and off campus. Existing space was renovated in Gengras in order to create a centralized office.
The Public Safety Department is diversifying their staff and they are implementing a community public safety model. They have a Student Ambassador Program. The department is rebranding- uniforms, vehicles, etc. There are also 15 EMS students working on campus.
The Division of Student Success is constantly striving toward a better retention rate. The retention results for the past year increased first to second year student retention for all students from 76% to 81% last year. It also increased first to second year minority student retention from 67% to 81%. Both are the highest in the University’s history. And, all this happened during a pandemic!
Looking ahead to meet the needs and desires of the students, considering areas such as their mental health, residential life, expansion of programs, and summer abroad experience, is a priority. Some improvements are needed in residential life. Many things have been done to improve the overall experience, such as improvements to common space in the dorms, fire-pits on campus – which have been enjoyed by the students, upgrading the Village Apartments from the 80’s to 2021 – which will be used for Graduate housing. There will be an expansion of programs. Fifty to sixty students will be able to take advantage of the Summer Abroad Program next summer at the end of their first year.
The University dealt with the COVID experience during the last 15 months extremely well. The retention rate during COVID was 81%. Executive Teams were set up to deal with Academics, Policies, Residential Life and Student Life and Engagement. R.J. led the Academic Team; Jess led the Policies Team; Aaron led the Residential Life and Student Life and Engagement Team.
A Q & A period followed.
Co-Chair Zegarelli thanked R.J., Jess, and Aaron for joining us and updating us on the Division of Student Success.
Co-Chair Workman commenced the business meeting by announcing new Emeriti members. They are as follows: College of Arts & Sciences – Douglas Eichar and Laurence (Larry) Gould; Hartford Art School – Gene Gort; College of Engineering, Technology and Architecture – Ladimer (Lad) Nagurney; and Barney School of Business – Carl Smith. Harry welcomed Lad Nagurney and Larry Gould who were in attendance.
Harry explained that Randi Ashton-Pritting, who recently retired after serving 40-plus years in various positions in the Harrison Libraries and becoming director in 2002, had been recommended to the Executive Committee to become a member of the Emeriti Association. The Executive committee unanimously voted to invite Randi to join the Emeriti Association. There were no objections from the general Emeriti Association members and thereby, her membership is approved! Welcome, Randi!
Harry gave a report on the Scholarship Committee and announced the winners of the three Scholarships for this year. Harry explained the process for the students to apply. There were 37 applicants this year and all were very strong candidates. The Scholarship Committee consists of: Harry - Chair; Susan Coleman, Steve Gryc, Sharon Pope, John Schloss, Leo Smith, Catherine Stevenson, Barbara Wolfe, Ralph Zegarelli. Harry thanked the committee for their work in selecting the recipients.
The awardees are: Camryn Butera, A&S, with a major in Biology/Pre-Med has a 4.0 GPA, has been awarded the Walter Harrison Scholarship; Dana Brooks, A&S, with a major in Criminal Justice has a 4.0 GPA, has been awarded the Humphrey Tonkin Scholarship; and Sydney Lewis, CETA, with a major in Civil Engineering has a 3.92 GPA, has been awarded the Emeriti Scholarship.
Harry thanked the membership for their donations and encouraged all to continue making donations to the Emeriti Scholarship Fund.
Harry invited Mary Dowst to give the Treasurer’s Report. Mary said that the Emeriti funds are doing well and explained that the Endowment Fund has $55,465 (and gifts are still coming in) – the Restricted Scholarship Fund has $20,000 and should have more at fiscal year-end. The Emeriti Restricted Fund has $9,000 to roll over. There has not been a lot of expense/spending this year. Mary said that we may be able to give another scholarship next year. Harry thanked Mary for her report.
Harry announced that we usually have an “In Memoriam” moment at our Plenary Meetings, but decided to postpone that until our October meeting when, hopefully, we will be able to meet in person.
Work is taking place on the Newsletter, which will be published in September.
Co-Chair Workman adjourned the meeting at 11:25 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Patricia D. Cairns
2020 Plenary Meetings
October 22, 2020 meeting notes
Chair Smith called the meeting to order at 10:05 a.m. Prior to the Business Meeting, Chair Smith welcomed all to the meeting and asked Randi Ashton-Pritting to introduce our speaker, Sean Parke, University Archivist.
Sean gave a most interesting presentation entitled “An Introduction to Archives and Special Collections.” His presentation included records of the founding of the University of Hartford and times prior. The Archives also include special collections of faculty and administrators. Sean pointed out that anyone can visit the Archives – by appointment only.
To donate or transfer materials to the archives, Sean can be contacted at (860) 768-4143, or by email archives@hartford.edu. Sean asked that nothing be brought in, dropped off, or sent in the mail without approval. He also explained that he could not provide copies of donated items, often because of copyright concerns.
Sean went on to explain what happens when items are donated – from the accessioning (paper record), processing (arranging, proper handling, preservation concerns, describe collections in finding aids), digitizing (small percentage of materials), prioritizing and providing access.
Sean showed a number of photos, or films, including Governor Ribicoff signing the Charter for the University of Hartford on February 21, 1957 (the University was chartered through the joining of the Hartford Art School, Hartt School of Music and Hillyer College). Others included the first Commencement on the lawn of our campus near North House (now called Bates House) on June 9, 1968. Archibald Woodruff was President at that time. Other photos of interest included Marian Anderson performing in Millard Auditorium on December 5, 1963 for the Dedication of the Fuller Music Center, Mr. Mortensen breaking ground for the William H. Mortensen Library, “On Strike 1970”, and the Hillyer College Fighting Hawks (nickname “Fighting’ Hawks”) Mascot, which originated when Hillyer College competed in sports in the 1940’s.
Sean showed many photographs of the progression of growth of the University from Bates House, to the first building on campus, University Hall (1960), now Hillyer Hall, to more recent times. The Archives hold many old yearbooks and college newspapers.
Sean gave a brief demo on how to do a search. For more information, contact Sean. Walt asked Sean if he would do a search on Ed Weinswig, then we all saw a young Ed from the 1968 Primus! Sean explained that we can also do a search online. In response to a question from Mike, Sean said that we can search other Connecticut Archives online – such as the CT Digital Archive Collection.
Leo spoke of Randi’s pending retirement and how grateful we are for all that she has done to assist the Emeriti Association and also that she has requested any contributions in her honor be donated to the Emeriti Scholarship Fund.
In Memoriam – Leo asked for a moment of silence for three of our members who recently passed away, Don DeBonee (CETA), Marge Gardow (Wife of Ernie), and John Gray (A&S). May they rest in peace and may their memories be a blessing.
Welcome to new Emeriti – Leo welcomed our new Emeriti members Demaris (Dee) Hansen (Hartt), Marcia Seabury (Hillyer), and Donn Weinholtz (ENHP). All are invited to be guests for lunch at our next Plenary Meeting.
Election of Officers – The nominees for EA officers for the coming year are: Ralph Zegarelli, Co-Chair; Harry Workman, Co-Chair; Patricia Cairns, Recording Secretary. All were officially elected. Mary Dowst will continue in her position as Executive Secretary and Treasurer.
Treasurer’s Report – Mary discussed the latest numbers in comparison to last year’s numbers. Since the 2020 Spring Plenary Meeting was cancelled, there was a 50% drop in income due to the Pandemic. We are behind in Scholarship money; however, some is coming in now. Interest from the endowed scholarship fund is down, but basically, we are in good shape. Mary thanked all for their contributions to the scholarship fund and encouraged everyone to continue donating to this worthy cause.
Mary also thanked Randi for requesting any contributions made in her honor be made to the Emeriti Scholarship Fund.
Leo commented that we were ahead in Scholarship funds and that the endowment looked good. Leo thanked Mary for her report and encouraged members to keep contributing to the Emeriti Scholarship Fund.
Scholarship Committee: Harry Workman, Chair – Harry explained that we have three very deserving scholarship recipients, congratulated them and said how fortunate we are that they were able to join us today. Harry then explained the process for selecting the Emeriti Scholarship awardees. Announcements are sent out in February seeking applicants. The applications are due in March. The Scholarship Committee, consisting of Steve Gryc, Sharon Pope, John Schloss, Leo Smith, Ed Weinswig, Barbara Wolfe and Ralph Zegarelli, then review the materials and make recommendations to the Executive Committee in April.
Harry then introduced the awardees:
Margaret Ann Hofbauer, ENHP, Health Sciences, with a major in PT has a GPA of 4.0 and is a Senior. She has been awarded the Walter Harrison Scholarship.
Juli Dajci, A&S, with a major in Mathematics, Psychology, and POGO has a GPA of 4.0 and is a Senior. He has been awarded the Humphrey Tonkin Scholarship. He was previously awarded an Emeriti Scholarship last year.
Kyleigh Olivier, Hartt, with a major in Fine Arts Dance, has a GPA of 3.83 and is a Junior. Kyleigh was awarded the Emeriti Scholarship.
Margaret Ann, Juli, and Kyleigh each spoke, expressing their gratitude and thanking the Emeriti Association for their scholarships. They each gave a brief history of their time at the University of Hartford and talked about their involvement with the University and also their many accomplishments, both within the University and the community. They stressed how the faculty and the University as a whole have helped them.
Harry thanked Margaret Ann, Juli and Kyleigh for joining us. All are invited to be guests for lunch at our next Plenary Meeting. Chair Smith congratulated the students and thanked Harry and the Scholarship Committee for their dedicated service.
Newsletter Committee – Ralph Zegarelli – Ralph announced the Newsletter had been mailed. The committee worked long and hard over the summer. The Newsletter can be found on the Emeriti website at www.hartford.edu/emeriti.
Leo said that the next Plenary Meeting is scheduled for May 2021 (the Thursday following Commencement). We are hopeful, but not too confident, it will be on campus.