<p>Westport, CT&nbsp;– Celebrate spring with a morning full of stories, creativity and community connection at&nbsp;<strong>Stories in Bloom – An Authors Showcase and Family Fun Event</strong>, hosted by the Westport Book Shop on&nbsp;<strong>Saturday, May 3 from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM</strong>&nbsp;on Jesup Green.</p><p>Families can enjoy a festive morning filled with a traditional Maypole dance, face painting,&nbsp;temporary tattoos,&nbsp;and&nbsp;corn hole, delicious refreshments —and a wonderful lineup of&nbsp;<strong>more than a dozen&nbsp;</strong>local authors&nbsp;<strong>of books for readers of all ages, from toddlers to adults,&nbsp;</strong>ready to&nbsp;meet you<strong>&nbsp;</strong>and sign books!&nbsp;&nbsp;This community celebration offers a rare opportunity to chat with authors about their creative journeys, purchase signed copies of their books, and enjoy a morning full of literary inspiration and fun.</p><p>Authors participating in&nbsp;<em>Stories in Bloom</em>&nbsp;include Diana Blau (<em>Beary &amp; Tinker Young at Heart</em>,&nbsp;<em>Losing Lambie</em>), Sam Wilson (<em>Shelly the Jellyfish</em>), Christina McKay DiChristina (<em>Barely There Bear</em>), Allia Zobel Nolan (<em>Why Can’t My Brother Be More Like My Cat</em>,&nbsp;<em>Cat Confessions</em>), and MaryAnn Degala (<em>To Bee</em>)<strong>,</strong>&nbsp;Michael Hendricks &amp; Rebecca Ross (<em>In the Beginning, A Love Story</em>), Bette Bono (<em>The Better Angels</em>,&nbsp;<em>Fear Itself</em>), Sylvie Jordan (<em>The Year That Was</em>,&nbsp;<em>Immersed in Poetry</em>), Gina Uricchio (<em>Art &amp; Voice of Autism</em>), Laurie Newkirk (<em>Best Christmas Pun &amp; Dad Joke Book</em>),&nbsp;Marlou Newkirk (<em>This and That and an Ice Cream Sundae</em>),&nbsp;Debbie Salas Lopez &amp; Kristina Lopez (<em>Veggie Buddies, The Bug Box &amp; The Magical Castle&nbsp;</em>), Michael Payton (<em>Human-Soar</em>), Denis O’Neill &amp; Cy Quadland (<em>Bradford’s Walk</em>), Bella Rizzi (<em>Travel Girls</em>,&nbsp;<em>Travel Girls 2</em>), Cat Urbain (<em>Diego, Whynd &amp; the Block Island Ghost</em>), Gabi Coatsworth (<em>A Beginner’s Guide to Starting Over</em>), Julie Ward (<em>A Butterfly's Book of Poetry</em>)&nbsp;and<strong>&nbsp;</strong>Marsha Temlock (<em>Tuesday’s Mah Jongg Is More Than a Game</em>).&nbsp;<strong>&nbsp;</strong>Local artist&nbsp;Jack Geer, whose greeting cards are sold at the Book Shop,&nbsp;will also share his artwork at the event.</p><p>As part of the&nbsp;<em>Stories in Bloom</em>&nbsp;celebration, the Westport Book Shop is launching&nbsp;<strong>two exciting raffles</strong>&nbsp;beginning May 3 and running through June 28. The&nbsp;<strong>first raffle</strong>&nbsp;offers a rare, sealed copy of&nbsp;<strong><em>The New Yorker in Westport&nbsp;</em>by Eve Potts and Andrew Bentley</strong>—a beautifully produced hardcover&nbsp;book<strong>&nbsp;</strong>published by the Westport Historical Society in 2015. This special volume showcases 50 New Yorker magazine covers created by Westport-area artists, inspired by local scenes. Each cover is accompanied by fascinating stories and little-known facts about Westport. Featured artists include Charles Addams, Perry Barlow, Whitney Darrow, Jr., James Daugherty, Edna Eicke, Arthur Getz, Alice Harvey, Helen Hokinson, Albert Hubbell, David Preston, Garrett Price, and Charles Saxon.</p><p>The&nbsp;<strong>second raffle</strong>&nbsp;is perfect for&nbsp;little swimmers: win&nbsp;<strong>one month of free weekly group swim lessons</strong>&nbsp;(four lessons total) at the&nbsp;<em>Stewie the Duck Swim School</em>&nbsp;in Norwalk, CT (55 Westport Avenue), along with a fun-filled&nbsp;<strong>Stewie the Duck gift basket</strong>. The basket includes a Stewie shirt, books, towel, cookies, and more—emphasizing the importance of water safety in a playful and engaging way.&nbsp;&nbsp;Don’t miss your chance to win these unique and meaningful prizes!</p><p>The drawing for both raffles will be held on&nbsp;<strong>June 28th&nbsp;at&nbsp;3 PM&nbsp;at&nbsp;the Westport Book Shop.&nbsp;</strong>You do&nbsp;<strong>not need to be present to win</strong>. Raffle tickets are&nbsp;<strong>$5 each or 3 for $10</strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>all proceeds will benefit the dual mission of the Westport Book Shop</strong>: to support the programming of the Westport Library, and to provide meaningful employment and training opportunities for adults with disabilities.&nbsp;</p><p>With something for everyone — from curious kids to lifelong readers —&nbsp;<em>Stories in Bloom</em>&nbsp;is a heartwarming way to welcome spring and support local voices.</p><p><strong>All children must be accompanied by an adult.</strong></p><p><em>The Westport&nbsp;Book Shop</em><strong style="color: rgb(153, 0, 255);"><em>&nbsp;</em></strong><em>is operated by Westport Book Sale Ventures, an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit enterprise with&nbsp;a&nbsp;dual social mission to provide meaningful competitive employment for adults with disabilities, while raising support for The Westport Library, through used book sales.</em></p><p><em>Since opening the Westport Book Shop in 2021, the Company has provided over 10,250 hours of meaningful competitive employment for over&nbsp;a&nbsp;dozen adults with differing abilities, and has provided&nbsp;&nbsp;over $200,000 in support to The Westport Library.</em></p><p><em>In addition to the Westport Book Shop, the Company operates the semi-annual Westport Library Book Sales, and sells books online through its ebay store</em><strong style="color: rgb(153, 0, 255);"><em>&nbsp;</em></strong><a href="http://www.ebay.com/str/WestportBookSalesCT" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>www.ebay.com/str/WestportBookSalesCT</em></a><em>&nbsp;&nbsp;</em></p><p><em>Westport Book Sale Ventures welcomes volunteers for all aspects of our operation, from book donation receipt and sorting, to preparing for and working at books&nbsp;sale events, to work in our online sales operation, and at the Westport Book Shop.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information, to get involved, or to make&nbsp;a&nbsp;charitable donation, please visit&nbsp;</em><a href="http://www.westportbooksaleventures.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>www.westportbooksaleventures.org</em></a><em>&nbsp;or send an email to&nbsp;</em><a href="mailto:info@westportbooksales.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>info@</em></a><a href="westportbooksales.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>westportbooksales.org</em></a>Swe</p>

<p>FAIRFIELD, Conn. (April 27, 2025)— Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina was the first Latin American and the first Jesuit to become pope. Returning from Easter break, Fairfield students, faculty members, and Jesuits paused to share reflections on Pope Francis and his legacy.</p><p><strong>Students Pay Tribute: “A Willingness to Go Where Love Is Needed Most”</strong></p><p>The majority of today’s undergraduate students were between the ages of six and 11 years old when Pope Francis was elected on March 13, 2013. “Pope Francis was the only pope in my life that met with everyone and met them where they were at,” said&nbsp;<strong>Kevin Camy ’26</strong>, a junior theology and psychology major with a minor in education.</p><p>Camy spoke of how the pope’s compassion and humility defined his papacy: “He created a space for people who had been hurt by the Church as well as created a dialogue of peace and inclusion in a world that knows so much division and violence.”</p><p>“Pope Francis’s life has been a compass for how I want to live out my faith: with open hands, a compassionate&nbsp;heart, and a willingness to go where love is needed most,” said&nbsp;<strong>Maggie Heintz ’25</strong>, a senior nursing major. She described how the pope’s example of leadership encouraged her to see her role in Campus Ministry not as a task, “but as a calling to serve with joy, reverence, and compassion.”</p><p>“His choice to live simply and prioritize people over prestige reminded me that ministry isn’t about being seen, it’s about showing up for others with love and intention,” Heintz said. “He has shown me what it means to put love into action. Whether through retreat leadership, ministering in liturgy, immersing myself in service, or in my nursing clinicals, I strive to follow that same path of humility and hope.”</p><p><strong>Faculty Reflections: “Affirmation of Our Mission as a Jesuit, Catholic University”</strong></p><p>Ever grateful for the “humbling and inspiring” experience of meeting Pope Francis last fall during a University-sponsored Ignatian pilgrimage to Rome, President&nbsp;<strong>Mark R. Nemec, PhD</strong>, a politics professor, reflected upon the Holy Father’s call for accompaniment as an affirmation of our mission as a Jesuit, Catholic university.</p><p>“That call resonates deeply at Fairfield,” said Dr. Nemec. “The pope’s legacy is a reminder that our fundamental purpose is to form students who are critically engaged, ethically grounded, and committed to the greater good to ensure they are ready and able to shape the future for the betterment of our communities, our country, and our world.”</p><p>In a statement issued by Fairfield’s Center for Catholic Studies, Director&nbsp;<strong>Nancy Dallavalle, PhD</strong>, an associate professor of religious studies, wrote: “Stern and jovial by turns, Pope Francis led the Church in the spirit of Vatican II, seeking new forms of community and culture internally while insisting that its external face be one of mercy, stretching its arms wide to the world. In a time of extraordinary turmoil, he did not shrink or hedge when faced with the extraordinary diplomatic and political challenges of our day, even when his efforts did not prevail. His own example was consistently that of a humble fellow Christian, asking those he met to pray for him. And to the end, whether reaching out to those caught in the crossfire of war or pleading for the humane treatment of migrants, he was a pastor, standing with those too easily swept away from history and the headlines.”</p><p><strong>Jesuit Voices: “He Was in No Way a Contradiction of What Came Before”</strong></p><p>As word of the pope’s passing spread on Monday morning, news outlets across the region reached out to Jesuit members of the Fairfield University community for comment.</p><p>Interviewed by Connecticut Public Radio,&nbsp;<strong>Rev. John Mulreany, S.J.</strong>, superior of the Fairfield Jesuit Community, spoke of Pope Francis’s reputation for being a good listener and the pontiff’s desire — faithful to his tradition of Jesuit discernment — to lead the Catholic Church toward becoming “a more listening church.”</p><p>“I hope that what remains from Pope Francis’s legacy going forward is the focus on both mercy and on care for everyone,” said Fr. Mulreany. “Also, his international, global vision for the Church. The pope has made the College of Cardinals more international to make sure that there are more and more voices represented there, and I expect that to continue.”</p><p><strong>Rev. Paul Rourke, S.J.</strong>, vice president for Mission and Ministry, spoke with WFSB-TV, Hartford, a CBS affiliate, about the many hallmarks of Pope Francis’s pontificate that belied his Jesuit nature: “That whole emphasis on encountering people where they are…going to the margins, of working with those who were excluded and on the fringe of society — those are very much commitments of the Jesuits.”</p><p>As for the results of the upcoming conclave, Fr. Rourke has faith that the Holy Spirit is in charge. “I would be surprised if the new pope went in a fundamentally different direction,” he said, “just as I think Pope Francis very much built on what Benedict and John Paul did. Though he had a different style and different ways, he was in no way a contradiction of what came before and I don’t think his successor will be either.”</p><p><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 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.</em></p>

<p><strong>HARTFORD, CT</strong>&nbsp;—&nbsp;<strong>State Senator Tony Hwang (R–Fairfield)</strong>&nbsp;last night voted&nbsp;<em>NO</em>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&amp;which_year=2025&amp;bill_num=1246" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">Senate Bill 1246</a>&nbsp;with substitute language from the Democratic legislative majority, voicing strong opposition to the controversial tax-and-revenue package that includes a capital gains surcharge, significant off-budget spending, and a troubling departure from Connecticut’s hard-won fiscal discipline.</p><p>“This bill raises taxes, breaks our state’s fiscal guardrails, and undermines the progress we've made toward stability and affordability,” said Senator Hwang. “At a time when Connecticut residents are struggling with rising costs, this plan adds new tax burdens, creates uncertainty for families and businesses, and sets a dangerous precedent for irresponsible budgeting.”</p><p><strong>Key Issues of Concern in SB 1246:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Creates a $700 million off-budget slush fund</strong>, reducing transparency and bypassing legislative oversight.</li><li><strong>Breaks the state’s fiscal guardrails</strong>, including the spending cap and volatility cap that have protected taxpayers for years.</li><li><strong>Reduces pension payments by $1.7 billion</strong>, potentially adding&nbsp;<strong>$140 million annually in long-term costs</strong>&nbsp;to future taxpayers.</li><li><strong>Imposes approximately $600 million in tax increases over two years</strong>, including the&nbsp;<strong>largest business tax hike in over a decade</strong>.</li><li>Introduces a&nbsp;<strong>last-minute capital gains tax surcharge</strong>&nbsp;that was not fully vetted and lacks an official fiscal note or impact analysis.</li></ul><p>While Senator Hwang supports the concept of targeted tax relief—such as the bill’s&nbsp;<strong>$150-per-child tax credit</strong>—he opposed trading that relief for risky tax hikes and fiscal backsliding.</p><p>“We should not be financing tax credits on the backs of small businesses, retirees, or entrepreneurs,” Hwang said. “This capital gains surcharge was rushed into the bill without public input or proper scrutiny. That’s not how sound policy is made.”</p><p>He added: “I’ve consistently supported responsible, bipartisan budgeting. This bill not only threatens that progress—it jeopardizes Connecticut’s economic competitiveness and long-term fiscal health.”</p><p>Senator Hwang reiterated his commitment to smart budgeting, long-term pension reform, and creating a business climate that fosters job growth, not tax flight.</p><p>“Connecticut families and employers deserve stability and honesty from their government. Unfortunately, SB 1246 offers neither. That’s why I voted no,” said Hwang.</p>

<p>FAIRFIELD, Conn.—As committed as he was to his work as a radiologist, the late Robert D. Russo, Sr., was equally devoted to providing educational opportunities to others who wanted to enter the field, particularly aspiring radiographers.&nbsp;</p><p>“For us as a family, education has always been very important,” said Robert D. Russo, Jr., who also is a radiologist, as is his son, Greg Russo. Russo, Jr., is president and CEO of Robert D. Russo, MD &amp; Associates Radiology. “My father was driven to do everything he could so that students had the ability to pursue new opportunities and advance in the field,” said Russo, Jr.&nbsp;</p><p>Members of the Russo family recently visited Sacred Heart University to celebrate a new wall panel that sits outside SHU’s radiography classrooms. It provides a history of the <a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.IeNJgsWRFduklcosJj7MilnEHTn9op5II8vxrh9uQef6ZUKUEjAJWK0BEgD6M9wI6TQWyssmKhrxRnQyfDXWBMHPs-2FB9qDT1arlzZeiUky8-3DNTO4_FrbdBNjFDoEa-2F9q6J5rbxTv-2FYob5s2OonmKskZDAI3GbhEJtfSPFgoDWHq8Bubs2uS2iETCIFkazkr2vsQt5zP8tZqSrdLReTPnffLPp1eIja2d2KKQnzOnkBTIkERgz4grfBKEmpkvJOs37Bo931ckT3w7HXmKivKVA1tAr8oKznCeLJ-2F9RnnjeUdQLxJDocUehdn9OlW27HPiDrM9DShOmnV3dyKVIkxSuNVPcr1UWBonXtGexizc4iRo5AlLY0ZVIXGN-2FMDJdR4JeRuddIM8cCBVO6ppRMi1LPfkuTwSHWYyVCvPUjSF0pt4CtZO9bjPSiOtQuTpqtglinedY66oM8h2vhcxf-2BD3i5QFSts6oZ21xy6kybp4xUmHL3-2F8N" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">radiography program</a>, from its beginnings at St. Vincent’s Hospital School of Nursing, where it started as a two-year certification program in 1951, to its transition to an associate degree program in 1995—four years after the school became St. Vincent’s College. In 2018, the program was integrated into SHU’s College of Health Professions and offers both associate and a bachelor’s degree programs.&nbsp;</p><p>During the 1950s, students became skilled X-ray technicians, eventually acquiring the knowledge and experience to conduct CT scans, MRIs and other advanced procedures. The Russo family provided key leadership as the school and the profession evolved, often hiring many of the graduates for the family’s radiology practice and encouraging them to engage in continuous learning throughout their careers.&nbsp;</p><p>The family’s visit was part of a 30th anniversary celebration of radiography’s transition to a degree-granting program. The event, held in the Edgerton Center for the Performing Arts atrium, honored the past and celebrated the future.&nbsp;</p><p>“The Russo family’s contributions to the field of radiology in Connecticut is indisputable,” said <a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.IeNJgsWRFduklcosJj7MilnEHTn9op5II8vxrh9uQee5lBShlat7UoZt5WYIQcZPB-2BUjDpQWGRPHUNlGsJg-2BUw-3D-3DBljO_FrbdBNjFDoEa-2F9q6J5rbxTv-2FYob5s2OonmKskZDAI3GbhEJtfSPFgoDWHq8Bubs2uS2iETCIFkazkr2vsQt5zP8tZqSrdLReTPnffLPp1eIja2d2KKQnzOnkBTIkERgz4grfBKEmpkvJOs37Bo931ckT3w7HXmKivKVA1tAr8oKznCeLJ-2F9RnnjeUdQLxJDocUehdn9OlW27HPiDrM9DSsg7x5Y3fjtGpFmftDmu-2FuKuJVIqBBDxuqkXS1f2dgcLhUG5BRWPIOpmBtcs4ihiGiXHuejAAM-2FbtxDk4-2BhUaHE8pdI3xB9FhbIfNQPFCwkaFSJdXZFzt7g3nj1e6gCbu0hkoQKmERn-2Bx-2BrOArRICn2jMcZTK8QlcGA7q4YHT28Z" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">Karl E. Minges</a>, dean of Sacred Heart University’s <a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.IeNJgsWRFduklcosJj7MilnEHTn9op5II8vxrh9uQedF9yhOnVXbxzo8bdCqCiYxmYjXTNsG1-2Bv1zp8g9eDotosy9fKOUb57Y97akyiwAltIFaxXL5E59gnCYovnyeRtKWlN_FrbdBNjFDoEa-2F9q6J5rbxTv-2FYob5s2OonmKskZDAI3GbhEJtfSPFgoDWHq8Bubs2uS2iETCIFkazkr2vsQt5zP8tZqSrdLReTPnffLPp1eIja2d2KKQnzOnkBTIkERgz4grfBKEmpkvJOs37Bo931ckT3w7HXmKivKVA1tAr8oKznCeLJ-2F9RnnjeUdQLxJDocUehdn9OlW27HPiDrM9DSoa1qLZvyRiQgxGTixOVTayAX586Il9uV4LjvjrLhD-2FEOXEMkb3LIocLvo30ONnjrVJ0-2FuWMKJhTJ3Ryz40QOk9uYvTSvkfO08RSvk6-2BRIQbZIkvMVYBB3iyvUOJ0GxLcSH3eL5NFjdWQfk1b9qr3gjJnJMuTZh8Vuxny3pXYP7q" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">College of Health Professions</a>. “The Russos have shaped the lives of tens of thousands of patients, thousands of practitioners and hundreds of students. In addition to hosting our students for clinical placements and serving as the medical directors of our radiography program, the Russos have served our program and the greater community through generous philanthropy.”&nbsp;</p><p>The Russo family impactfully supports SHU’s radiography program and has established an endowed scholarship to benefit radiography and speech-language pathology students.&nbsp;</p><p>At the celebration, the University also expressed gratitude to Hartford HealthCare for a donation that paid for a new, cutting-edge digital X-ray. Hartford HealthCare delivers care through an expansive network of facilities across Connecticut.&nbsp;</p><p>“Sacred Heart University is really special to Hartford HealthCare,” said Peter Yoo, attending surgeon and chief academic officer for Hartford HealthCare. “[Our admiration] comes from Sacred Heart’s devotion to service and its importance to the community and region. There’s a tight alignment. We consider this a smart investment as Connecticut continues to be a great place to provide and deliver health care.”&nbsp;</p><p>Minges thanked Hartford HealthCare for its generous gift. “Having this device accessible to students and their instructors will support the integration of important learning outcomes in the field of radiologic sciences, including equipment operation, quality control, patient positioning and digital imaging,” he said.&nbsp;</p><p>About 70 people attended the celebration, including the 43 SHU students currently working toward their degree in radiography. These students will become the diagnostic imaging personnel of the future, helping doctors and other providers make medical decisions about treatments.&nbsp;</p><p>As the student speakers noted, it’s a job that goes beyond just taking pictures. As one shared, “We capture the images that save lives.”&nbsp;</p><p>Deirdre Valinsky, director of SHU’s radiography program, said that without the late Dr. Russo’s initiative and contributions to the radiology profession, these advances would not have been possible. “And thanks to Hartford HealthCare, the new, state-of-the-art digital X-ray system allows students to learn with the same equipment they will use at their clinical sites and once they are working in the field,” she said.&nbsp;</p><p>Minges praised SHU’s program for impacting tens of thousands of lives and helping to shape the future of diagnostic imaging in Connecticut. “We equip students with the skills they need to achieve success in radiography. They are poised to be excellent clinical providers who meet the mission and vision of the College of Health Professions of delivering person-centered care,” Minges said.&nbsp;</p><p>For the Russo family, the advances are a dream that was long in the making. Arlyne Russo, a speech-language pathologist (SLP) who taught at SHU from 2014 to 2022 and is back supervising SHU’s clinical SLP program, said the celebration brought tears to her eyes. “This is the culmination of what my father wanted,” she said.&nbsp;</p><p>Sacred Heart radiography students have the option of pursuing an associate degree or dual associate-bachelor’s degree in health science and radiography. The advanced degree is something that her father envisioned.&nbsp;</p><p>“The program started with certificates, but my father wanted students to have the opportunity to earn an associate degree. He put me on the board at St. Vincent’s College to make sure of that. So, we got an associate degree when St. Vincent’s Nursing School became a college, and I thought that solved my problem,” Russo said.&nbsp;</p><p>“But it didn’t solve his problem,” she added. “He wanted students to have a Bachelor of Science degree. I couldn’t be happier. I’m sure that, somewhere, the old man can hear me. Students can now get a Bachelor of Science degree at a great university with great teachers. It took some time, but we did it.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</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-2BOFF79ZsNqAVERw9U23UoKk_FrbdBNjFDoEa-2F9q6J5rbxTv-2FYob5s2OonmKskZDAI3GbhEJtfSPFgoDWHq8Bubs2uS2iETCIFkazkr2vsQt5zP8tZqSrdLReTPnffLPp1eIja2d2KKQnzOnkBTIkERgz4grfBKEmpkvJOs37Bo931ckT3w7HXmKivKVA1tAr8oKznCeLJ-2F9RnnjeUdQLxJDocUehdn9OlW27HPiDrM9DSuyvfLdvDRkzE4ZIZBAak3RzWksoShNJAELacTrHrab8U885qcuNMTGn357T4FEDtOUwpUo0NSJUuijKLrPeDW9GAjppzbLXFXNQnxNNlNNgOiSnEjsZaqLLhcvNSf6bm2HvaomjdGDb6g4p2m7Vsp-2FXmAB6XDf54mz2dkRSjI4-2F" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">www.sacredheart.edu</a></p>

<p><strong>GREENWICH, Conn. </strong>-- 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.</p><p>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&nbsp;<em>Reimagine the Campus</em>&nbsp;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.</p><p>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<em>&nbsp;</em>on Impressionist artists Childe Hassam and John Henry Twachtman, and on the contributions of local African American, Italian, Jewish and Japanese communities.</p><p>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.&nbsp;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.</p><p>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.&nbsp;</p><p>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:&nbsp;<em>Our Town, Our Story, Greenwich Past, Present, Future.”</em></p><p>“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.”</p><p>In recognition of her contributions to the Greenwich community, Mecky will be the honoree at the Historical Society’s annual&nbsp;<em>History in the Making</em>&nbsp;award dinner, to be held on Wednesday, October 29th&nbsp;from 6-9pm at Belle Haven Club. Author and historian Nathaniel Philbrick will be the keynote speaker.</p>

<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><p><strong>Meet Colleen Horstmann founder of</strong><a href="https://www.collitentertaining.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);"><strong>&nbsp;Coll It Entertaining</strong></a></p><p><strong>Tell me about how Coll It Entertaining began.</strong></p><p>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.</p><p>Read more about Colleen&nbsp;<a href="https://www.collitentertaining.com/about" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">https://www.collitentertaining.com/about</a></p><p><strong>Best selling product or service?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><strong>How many local businesses do you use to support Coll It Entertaining and can you name them?</strong></p><p><strong><span class="ql-cursor"></span></strong>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!</p><p><strong>Have you reimagined your small business?</strong></p><p>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!</p><p>Visit Coll It Entertaining online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.collitentertaining.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);">https://www.collitentertaining.com/</a></p><p>Follow Coll It Entertaining on Instagram&nbsp;<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></p><p><strong>HamletHub thanks</strong><a href="http://www.jkinfordbeautygroup.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);"><strong>&nbsp;</strong></a><a href="https://www.fairfieldcountybank.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(2, 177, 151);"><strong>Fairfield County Bank&nbsp;</strong></a><strong>for making our Why Small Businesses Matter series possible!</strong></p>