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Apr 23, 2025

Greenwich Historical Society’s CEO Debra Mecky Announces Retirement

GREENWICH, Conn. -- Debra L. Mecky, Ph.D., executive director and CEO of Greenwich Historical Society for over 29 years, has announced her decision to retire in 2025. During her tenure, she dramatically advanced the organization’s mission, transformed its site and operations, and expanded its reach and audience to become one of America’s foremost regional history museums.Under Mecky’s leadership, the Historical Society experienced significant growth, prominence, and relevance in the Greenwich community and beyond. With the support of an extraordinary board, staff, and design team, Mecky oversaw the 2018 Reimagine the Campus transformation and expansion with state-of-the-art galleries for permanent collections and special exhibitions, and the installation of a new highly accessible world-class library and archives, reception lobby and museum store. She obtained accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums, oversaw the restoration of the Justus Luke Bush Storehouse to accommodate administrative offices, and the expansion of the historic barn into the Vanderbilt Education Center. The interpretive plan she developed for Bush-Holley House and its historic landscape advanced its status as a National Historic Landmark and recognition as the site of the first art colony in Connecticut.A bi-annual program of exhibitions was implemented during Mecky’s tenure on topics spanning Greenwich history, the Cos Cob art colony, including significant exhibitions on Impressionist artists Childe Hassam and John Henry Twachtman, and on the contributions of local African American, Italian, Jewish and Japanese communities.Additionally, Mecky was instrumental in expanding education programs for students in Greenwich’s public and private schools and building the endowment to fund its museum-school partnerships through which free programs are provided to every student in two of Greenwich’s Title I schools. Focused primarily on social studies and fine art, programming was designed to complement the schools’ mission of narrowing the achievement gap that runs along racial, ethnic and socioeconomic lines. It is often the first museum experience for many of the 1600 students who have participated to date and who have gained a sense of pride in the rich cultural history of Greenwich.The Board of Trustees has formed a transition committee to steer the Historical Society through its leadership succession and has engaged Koya Leadership Partners/DSG Global to assist in a national search to identify qualified candidates for a new Executive Director and CEO. The Board expresses its deep appreciation for Mecky’s vision, leadership, and accomplishments: “Debra has made Greenwich Historical Society a point of pride for the Town of Greenwich and a leading institution of its kind, increased its visibility and impact through highly effective programs that engage the community, and fostered a base of committed and enthusiastic patrons,” said Catherine Tompkins, chair of the Board of Trustees. “Notably, she laid the groundwork for the Historical Society to continue its robust growth trajectory through the upcoming capital campaign for endowment and programs: Our Town, Our Story, Greenwich Past, Present, Future.”“It has been the highlight of my career and a tremendous honor and privilege to serve the Greenwich Historical Society and the community for almost three decades as Executive Director,” says Mecky. “I leave with the organization well positioned for a new era of growth and poised to even better serve our extraordinary town.”In recognition of her contributions to the Greenwich community, Mecky will be the honoree at the Historical Society’s annual History in the Making award dinner, to be held on Wednesday, October 29th from 6-9pm at Belle Haven Club. Author and historian Nathaniel Philbrick will be the keynote speaker.

Apr 23, 2025

Why Small Businesses Matter in Fairfield: Coll It Entertaining

<h2>Local Business Champion: <a href="https://www.collitentertaining.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">Coll It Entertaining</a></h2>Meet Colleen Horstmann founder of<a href="https://www.collitentertaining.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);"> Coll It Entertaining</a>Tell me about how Coll It Entertaining began.Coll It Entertaining grew out of Colleen Horstmann's desire to share her talents with families in Connecticut who wished to celebrate their special occasions without the stress of managing every intricate aspect. Her passion for event planning was influenced by many facets, one being her time working in higher education at Fairfield University, where she organized a wide range of gatherings for students, families, and alumni. Over a decade, she meticulously crafted experiences that ranged from intimate get-togethers to grand events, all with a common thread of professionalism and unwavering enthusiasm. The turning point came when Colleen and her now-husband faced the challenge of planning their own wedding amidst the global pandemic. Despite the hurdles, they persevered, adapting their plans to meet COVID guidelines, and reimagining their entire wedding weekend. The result was a day that exceeded their wildest expectations, showcasing Colleen's ability to turn adversity into something extraordinary. Colleen eventually realized it was time to step out on her own and assist others in crafting their perfect celebration. Whether you're envisioning a lively party, a heartfelt celebration, a long-awaited reunion, or a romantic wedding, Coll It Entertaining is dedicated to transforming your dreams into reality. Colleen's expertise will ensure that your event is meticulously organized, reflecting your personal style and preferences.Read more about Colleen <a href="https://www.collitentertaining.com/about" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">https://www.collitentertaining.com/about</a>Best selling product or service?Our most popular service is our "Months of Coordination" for couples that are looking for us to ensure their wedding day is seamlessly executed. We oversee all vendor, rental details, timelines and behind the scenes elements of the ceremony, cocktail hour, reception and transportation. Additionally, we manage all decor set-up and break-down. We're present throughout the day to manage all aspects, so our couples can fully embrace their wedding day and focus on what's truly important. This service begins at least two months before the wedding, allowing us to get to know our couple, finalize all remaining details and communicate with all vendors.How many local businesses do you use to support Coll It Entertaining and can you name them?One of the privileges of owning a event business is the relationships we are able to create with other vendors and local businesses. Having a team of trusted products and services, not only makes our lives easier but really brings a benefit to our clients as we know that they are getting the best product and level of service around. For our events this includes caterers, food trucks, entertainment, florists, decor rentals and so much more. We are always looking to connect with new businesses and welcome an introduction!Have you reimagined your small business?We are constantly evolving our business to meet the needs of our clients. This past year was about refining our processes and really taking the time to expand our network. We are looking forward to all the Coll It Entertaining accomplishes this year and beyond!Visit Coll It Entertaining online <a href="https://www.collitentertaining.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">https://www.collitentertaining.com/</a>Follow Coll It Entertaining on Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/coll.it.entertaining/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">https://www.instagram.com/coll.it.entertaining/</a>HamletHub thanks<a href="http://www.jkinfordbeautygroup.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);"> </a><a href="https://www.fairfieldcountybank.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">Fairfield County Bank </a>for making our Why Small Businesses Matter series possible!

Apr 23, 2025

Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk Nominated for USA Today’s “10 Best” List

Norwalk, CT – The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk is one of twenty aquariums across the country to be nominated for USA Today’s “10 Best” list in their 2025 Reader’s Choice Awards.Aquariums featured in the list range from large to small, from the East Coast to the West Coast, and were chosen by a panel of experts because they “represent the best in the country for their high-quality exhibits and visitor interactions.”The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk is honored to be nominated alongside so many other organizations that share its dedication to preserving aquatic life and habitats while providing educational outreach and enrichment.“The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk has been welcoming visitors through our doors to learn more about the unique ecosystem of Long Island Sound for nearly four decades,” said President & CEO Jason Patlis. “We know this is a special place for our community and we’re so pleased to have a chance to share our story of discovery and conservation with the rest of country.”Visitors and fans are welcome to cast their vote once a day, every day, through Monday, May 12.THE MARITIME AQUARIUM AT NORWALK works to ignite a connection to Long Island Sound and the ocean to enrich the lives of all people. It is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums and receives support from the State of Connecticut DECD’s Offices of Culture and Tourism. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.maritimeaquarium.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">www.maritimeaquarium.org</a>.

Apr 23, 2025

Fairfield U. Celebrates Excellence in Undergrad & Grad Research at Symposium

FAIRFIELD, Conn. — Fairfield University’s annual Student Research Symposium on April 23 in the Leo D. Mahoney Arena, offers a distinctive chance to learn about student research through 530 live student poster presentations. While the focus of the event is undergraduate research, presenters will also include master's program and doctoral students. All of Fairfield’s five academic schools will participate, representing nearly every major and a wide array of interdisciplinary minors.The research presentations include a variety of disciplines, including science, the arts, humanities, education, and business. Several student presenters have previously shared their work at national conferences, demonstrating the relevance of their research. Students include (but are not limited to):<ul><li>Wynne Dieffenbach, a master’s candidate in Fairfield’s, Marriage and Family Therapy program, presented at the New England Association for Family and Systemic Therapy (NEAFAST) Conference on: Attachment, Self-Esteem, and Catfishing: Examining the Mediating Role of Self-Esteem in Online Deception and Victimization.</li><li>Braden Quitmyer ’25, presented at the American Association for Cancer Research on: PUNICIC ACID FROM POMEGRANATE SEED OIL INDUCES CYTOTOXICITY AND OXIDATIVE STRESS IN MCF-7 BREAST CANCER CELLS.</li><li>Carolyn Bayha ’25, presented at the Association for Psychological Science Annual Convention on: Can You Become Aware of Attitudes You Didn’t Even Know You Had?: Using Subliminal Exposure to Examine the Processes Underlying Accurate Prediction of Implicit Attitudes.</li><li>Kevin Hanson ’27, presented at the 18th China Summer Workshop on Information Management on: CHARM: Cross-Community Rule Harmonization in Online Content Moderation.</li></ul>Explore these presentations and many others from over 500 participants at this year's Student Research Symposium.Schedule:<ul><li>11-12:30 p.m. Session I: Capstone and Course-Based Projects</li><li>1-1:30 p.m. Brief Program</li><li>1:30 - 3p.m. Session II: Faculty Mentored Independent Student     Research Projects</li><li>3:30-4:30 p.m. Session III: Egan School of Nursing & Health Studies Capstone Projects</li></ul>To learn more about this year’s Student Research Symposium and the interdisciplinary student research projects visit <a href="https://www.fairfield.edu/student-research-symposium/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">fairfield.edu/symposium</a>. 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 46 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.

Apr 22, 2025

Fairfield Announces 2025 Commencement Speakers and Honorary Degree Recipients

FAIRFIELD, Conn. — Fairfield University will celebrate its <a href="https://www.fairfield.edu/commencement/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">75th Commencement Ceremonies</a> on May 17 and 18. <a href="https://www.fairfield.edu/commencement/graduate.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Graduate</a> exercises will take place on Saturday, May 17 in the Leo D. Mahoney Arena, followed by <a href="https://www.fairfield.edu/commencement/undergraduate.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">undergraduate</a> exercises on Sunday, May 18 on Bellarmine Lawn. The inaugural cohort of the Fairfield Bellarmine Class of 2025 will be honored with associate's degrees during Commencement exercises on Thursday, May 15 at the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts. Timothy Shriver, PhD, chairman of the Special Olympics International Board of Directors, will deliver the undergraduate Commencement address at Fairfield University’s 2025 Commencement Ceremony. In recognition of his leadership in advancing global education, inclusion, and human dignity, Shriver will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree.As leader of Special Olympics, Shriver has supported more than six million athletes worldwide, promoting health, unity, and equal opportunities for individuals of all abilities. Under his leadership, Special Olympics has grown significantly, positively impacting lives through the power of sport.A leading advocate for social and emotional learning, Shriver co-founded the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), revolutionizing the integration of emotional learning in schools. He also co-chairs the National Commission on Social and Emotional Learning, serves as president of the Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. Foundation, and is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. Shriver co-founded Lovin' Spoonful Ice Cream to support the mission of Special Olympics. His work, including four films and the New York Times bestselling book Fully Alive: Discovering What Matters Most, has sparked global conversations about empathy, human dignity, and social change. He exemplifies the Jesuit value of “radical hospitality” by advocating for inclusion and the worth of every individual, regardless of ability.Shriver earned his undergraduate degree from Yale, a master’s degree from Catholic University, and a doctorate in education from the University of Connecticut.Rev. John F. Baldovin, S.J., a distinguished professor of liturgical theology at Boston College’s Clough School of Theology and Ministry, and a former longtime member of Fairfield’s Board of Trustees, will also receive an honorary Doctor of Laws degree. A renowned scholar, liturgist, and pastor, Fr. Baldovin’s contributions to theological education and the Church have resonated worldwide.His academic and pastoral career spans decades, during which he has earned recognition for his expertise in liturgical theology, and his influence on the Catholic Church’s understanding and practice of liturgy. His writings have been published in prominent journals and translated into multiple languages, contributing to the global conversation on liturgical practice and reform.In addition to his scholarly achievements, Fr. Baldovin has served as a teacher and mentor at several prestigious institutions, including Fordham University, the Jesuit School of Theology at Berkeley, and the Weston Jesuit School of Theology. Fr. Baldovin’s deep commitment to the Church is also reflected in his advisory roles, such as his service on the advisory committee for the Bishops’ Committee on the Liturgy of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) and the International Commission on English in the Liturgy (ICEL).A member of the Society of Jesus, Fr. Baldovin has also served in various pastoral roles, assisting in parishes in the Boston area. His dedication to the Jesuit ideals of service, education, and social justice has inspired countless students, colleagues, and members of the broader Church community.Cathy E. Minehan has been selected as the graduate Commencement speaker for Fairfield’s Class of 2025. A distinguished leader in finance, higher education, and public service, Minehan has dedicated her career to leadership in economic stability, corporate governance, and advancing opportunities for all. From 1994 to 2007, she served as president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, playing a pivotal role in national economic policy and financial stability. As a key member of the Federal Open Market Committee, she guided the country’s financial system through periods of both expansion and challenge.In addition to her leadership at the Federal Reserve, Minehan has served on numerous boards, including those of Massachusetts General Hospital, Bright Horizons Family Solutions, the Brookings Institution, Visa, and the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston.After her tenure at the Federal Reserve, Minehan turned her focus to higher education, serving as dean of the School of Management at Simmons College from 2011 to 2016. She championed innovative educational models, such as a pioneering MBA program for women, and worked to make business education more accessible and relevant in an evolving global economy. Her commitment to education extends to her longtime support of Fairfield University, along with her late husband, Dr. E. Gerald Corrigan, who helped establish the E. Gerald Corrigan Chair in Humanities and Social Sciences, and the Corrigan & Zedillo Scholars program.In recognition of her exemplary leadership and lifelong commitment to public service, Fairfield University will proudly present Cathy E. Minehan with an honorary Doctor of Laws degree.Fairfield University will also recognize alumna Robin Bennett Kanarek ’96, with an honorary Doctor of Laws degree. Kanarek’s advocacy, scholarship, and philanthropy have advanced the field of palliative care nationwide. A proud graduate of <a href="https://www.fairfield.edu/academics/schools-and-colleges/egan-school-of-nursing-and-health-studies/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Fairfield’s Egan School of Nursing & Health Studies</a>, she has dedicated her life to ensuring that individuals facing serious illness receive compassionate, holistic care.In 2006, she and her husband, Joseph, founded the Kanarek Family Foundation in memory of their son, David, who passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. The Kanarek Family Foundation has been a leader in integrating palliative care into healthcare systems, focusing on education, awareness, and patient-centered support. In 2023, it funded Connecticut’s first Pediatric Palliative Care Coalition, where Kanarek serves as sustainability coordinator. The foundation also collaborates with institutions such as Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Yale, and The George Washington University Institute for Spirituality and Health, driving both national and international dialogue on palliative care.A dedicated supporter of Fairfield University, she serves on the University’s Board of Trustees and chairs the <a href="https://www.fairfield.edu/academics/schools-and-colleges/egan-school-of-nursing-and-health-studies/kanarek-center-for-palliative-care/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kanarek Center for Palliative Care</a>, established in 2017 through her foundation. Kanarek also chairs the advisory board for the Bennett Center for Judaic Studies, founded by her parents, Carl and Dorothy Bennett, in 1994.Her leadership extends to board service at Greenwich Hospital, Stamford Hospital Foundation, and Connecticut Hospice, and she is a fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine in London.Kanarek is the author of Living Well with a Serious Illness (Johns Hopkins University Press), which offers guidance to families facing serious illness.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 46 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.

Apr 21, 2025

Drew Angus & Band to Perform at SHU Community Theatre Fri. April 25

Fairfield, CT - Head to Sacred Heart Community Theatre on Friday, April 25th for an evening of songs and stories with Drew Angus - the heartfelt singer whose voice has been praised by Jennifer Lopez on American Idol 🎙, Elton John, and Harry Connick Jr!  Tickets: <a href="https://store.drewangus.com/products/drewangus-shu-fairfield-ct" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://store.drewangus.com/products/drewangus-shu-fairfield-ct</a> <h2>🎤 About Drew Angus</h2>Amidst a sea of musical artists, Connecticut-based singer-songwriter Drew Angus stands apart thanks to his soul-stirring vocal talents. With indelible hooks, savvy craftsmanship, and relatable lyrics, he brings a certain verve to his work that resonates with audiences and fellow performers alike. Drew found his love for music growing up in a house filled with the sounds of artists like Tom Petty, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones. He's influenced by these classic rock sounds mixed with artists of today like Ben Rector, The Lone Bellow, and John Mayer.Drew's music is heartfelt, nostalgic, clever, and catchy, with vocal fireworks and harmonies that will give you the shivers. He describes it as the intersection of Americana and Rock 'n Roll with a little bit of Funk and Retro Soul.His work ethic and captivating nature have led him down some pretty amazing paths. Drew has shared stages with Mumford & Son's, Stevie Nicks, Noah Kahan, Zach Bryan, Harry Styles, Nile Rogers (on SNL), Pat Benatar, Ann Willson of Heart, Alan Stone, and Andrea Bocelli (on Live with Kelly & Ryan) and has toured with Marc Broussard. The quickly-rising artist is rapidly gaining a following with his lively performances and soulful singing.🎶 This show is for fans of Mumford and Sons, Zach Bryan, Chris Isaak, John Mayer and Marc Broussard.🎟️ Tickets are selling fast! Drews last 5 shows sold out in advance! Grab yours now before they’re goneOpener: BONOMOFormed by NYC musician Adam Bonomo, indie acoustic outfit BONOMO is a project that pulls at the heart strings with symphonic resonance and a distinct take on indie-folk music. Influenced by the sounds of folk, jazz, gospel, and classical music, BONOMO is a melting pot of true artistry and the finest pioneering genres of all time. On a mission to unify musical traditions and audiences alike, the ensemble is set of visionaries inspired by the sounds of yesterday while simultaneously crafting a resonance all their own.<a href="https://www.bonomoband.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.bonomoband.com/</a><h3>📆 Event Details</h3><ul><li>Venue: SHU Community Theatre</li><li>1420 Post Road, Fairfield, CT</li><li>Date: Friday 4/25</li><li>Time: Doors 7pm | Show 8pm</li></ul>

Apr 21, 2025

Sen. Hwang to Host Press Conference to Applaud Funding for Easton Public Library

Easton, CT - Sen. Tony Hwang, CT State Librarian Deborah Schander, Easton First Selectman David Bindelglass, Rep. Tony Scott, Rep. Anne Hughes and Easton Library Board Chairman Renee Neiger will all be hand for an Easton Library Funding Press Conference to be conducted at Easton Public Library, 691 Morehouse Road, Easton, CT on Monday, April 21, 2025 at 4:30PM. The event celebrates the allocation of $1 million in state funding to the Easton Public Library. This funding will support a much-needed renovation project, enhancing library facilities and services for residents of all ages. The upgrades will improve accessibility and create spaces for community engagement, ensuring the library continues to be a center of learning.