On April 17th, SCSU students had the privilege of hearing seven leaders of the community discuss their experiences and give valuable insight on how to become involved. The participants included Eric Clemons (CEO of CommCat), Lou Perno (Director of Literacy Volunteers), Lynne Bonnett (President of Greater New Haven Green Fund), Dr. Evans (Member of Greater New Haven Green Fund & SCSU Professor), Patrick Dunn (Director of New Haven Pride Center), Alexine Casanova (IRIS Director), and Elsie Chapman (President of NHFPL & Board Member of International Festival of Arts and Ideas).
Each participant explained how their ‘Transformative Career’ benefits the New Haven community. For example, Eric Clemons explained how the Connecticut Center for Arts and Technologygives residents educational and career opportunities. Some of there programs include culinary and healthcare education. Lou Perno and Literacy Volunteersprovides adult literacy tutoring for residents who struggle with reading comprehension. Lynne Bonnett and Dr. Evan’s explained how theGreater New Haven Green Fundcan provide grants to organizations and individuals looking to help the environment. Patrick Dunn explained how The New Haven Pride Centerprovides a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community and a variety of different services. Alexine Casanova went over the process of how refugees come to the United States through the IRIS. The IRISworks with new immigrants to welcome and provide the services needed to help their acclimation into the community. Finally, Elsie Chapman explained how the New Haven Public Libraries are crucial to the community and are bound to many different organizations. She also spoke about the International Festival for the Artsand how it is a chance for everyone to come together and experience the wonders of the humanities.
Overall, this event was a chance for SCSU students to learn ways that they can get involved with in these organizations and also the importance of expanding education beyond the classroom. There are many opportunities for students of diverse interests and talents to volunteer, service learn, or intern.