Author: Raj

UConn ECE MELD

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By Dr. Michael Kienzler, Assistant Professor UConn Chemistry

 

Dr. Fatma Selampinar UConn ECE Faculty Coordinator for Chemistry, Associate Professor in-Residence UConn Chemistry

 

UC MELD

May 2025

 

More than 240 students from 12 high schools—Rocky Hill High School, O.H. Platt High School, Enfield High School, Berlin High School, The Woodstock Academy, University High School of Science and Engineering, Jonathan Law High School, Joseph A. Foran High School, Daniel Hand High School, Bristol Eastern High School, Academy of Information Technology & Engineering, and Lewis S. Mills High School—across Connecticut gathered at the University of Connecticut’s Chemistry Building for the annual ECE Chemistry Lab Day. Held over two sessions on May 20 and May 22, 2025, the event provided students with immersive, hands-on laboratory experiences that offered exposure to UConn lab environments and research practices.

 

The MELD (May ECE Lab Day) event was coordinated by the UConn Early College Experience Program Office and Dr. Fatma Selampinar, Professor in Residence and UConn ECE Chemistry Faculty Coordinator. Science activities were hosted by Assistant Professor Dr. Michael Kienzler. Following Dr. Kienzler’s presentation, students transitioned to six undergraduate teaching laboratories, where they conducted a series of experiments designed by Dr. Kienzler. These sessions were supervised by graduate students, providing participants with hands-on experience in a collegiate laboratory setting. This collaborative effort offered high school students an immersive introduction to advanced chemical research and methodologies, fostering early engagement with the scientific community at UConn. Students synthesized three different derivatives of the dye azobenzene, a compound known for its photoswitching properties—changing structure when exposed to specific wavelengths of light. The students then investigated the properties of the azobenzene they made using ultraviolet/visible spectroscopy and thin-layer chromatography. These experiments mirror ongoing research going on in Dr. Kienzler’s lab.

 

Beyond the laboratory work, participants engaged with UConn’s advanced scientific equipment. Dr. Selampinar coordinated sessions introducing students to Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, while graduate students provided insights into mass spectrometry techniques. These experiences aim to familiarize students with tools and methodologies prevalent in modern chemical research. The UConn ECE Chemistry Lab Day not only enriches students’ understanding of chemistry but also fosters connections between high school students and UConn faculty and graduate students. Such initiatives underscore the UConn ECE and Chemistry Department’s commitment to bridging secondary education with higher learning, inspiring the next generation of scientists.

UConn ECE Welcomes 290 Newly Certified Instructors: Celebrating Continued Growth

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By Stefanie Malinoski

 

This spring, UConn Early College Experience marked a significant milestone by certifying 290 new instructors. Many existing instructors with UConn ECE chose to expand their certification to include new courses. Of those, 224 were brand new partners to UConn ECE and participated in New Instructor Orientation. These 224 teachers represented new certification in 242 courses. Orientation served as an energizing introduction to their roles as Instructors with UConn ECE.

 

The day-long orientation offered a comprehensive overview of the ECE program, led by Executive Director, Chris Todd and staff. Key sessions covered instructor responsibilities, student registration processes, engagement strategies, and the importance of aligning with NACEP (National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships) standards.

 

Mid-morning, instructors chose from three focused breakout sessions:

 

• UConn Instructional Resources:
Ery Caswell, Student Success and Engagement Librarian, showcased the breadth of UConn’s library offerings, while Educational Technologies expert Jordan Vinikoor provided a hands-on introduction to Blackboard Ultra, the university’s learning management platform.

 

• ECE Program Operations:
Carissa Rutkauskas and Todd Blodgett provided essential information on data reporting, syllabus submission, credit transferability, and grading procedures.

 

• Student Enrichment Opportunities:
Jessica Dunn and Bobbi-Jo Wathen highlighted the wide range of enrichment opportunities available through UConn ECE and Pre-College Summer; both programs designed to provide high school students with college-level experiences while still a high school student.

 

In the afternoon, discipline-specific breakout sessions gave instructors the opportunity to meet with their Faculty Coordinators and network with fellow newcomers, fostering collaboration and community. Over 40 of our UConn ECE Faculty Coordinators participated in this event. Supporting these connections is key to ensuring Instructors feel supported and ready to deliver UConn courses in their high schools this fall.

 

As the academic year draws to a close, the UConn ECE program is celebrating the success of its growing instructor network while staying focused on creating enriching opportunities for teachers and students across Connecticut.

UConn ECE Chinese Talent Show

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By Dr. George Chunsheng Yang | Photos by Gordon Daigle and Mike Illuzzi

 

March 14, 2025

 

On March 14, 2025, UConn ECE, in collaboration with UConn’s Language, Cultures, and Literature (LCL) Chinese program, hosted a Chinese Talent Show for both UConn ECE Chinese high school students and UConn Chinese students. Hosted at the UConn Student Union Theater, the event featured more than 20 student-led performances, and drew an audience of more than 150 students, instructors, and community members, all eager to witness the creativity and dedication of high school and college Chinese learners.

 

The event showcased a wide variety of performances, including solo and group singing, traditional and modern dance, Chinese poem recitations, and engaging sanju ban (a comic dialogue style popular in Chinese storytelling). Between the acts, UConn ECE Chinese instructors hosted interactive mini-games and cultural trivia sessions, keeping the audience entertained and engaged throughout the event.

 

At the end of the event, three standout performances were honored with special awards. The Best Language Expression Award went to Amity High School for their flawless Mandarin poem recitation. The Best Performance Award went to Norwich Free Academy for their powerful Taiji dance. The most Popular Award went to Amity High School for their popularity among the audience.

 

The event was proudly sponsored by UConn ECE Office and UConn Chinese Program. The Talent Show reflects a broader community-wide initiative to foster cultural understanding, confidence in Chinese communication, and global competence through language education.

2025 Celebrating Excellence: UConn ECE Professional Recognition Awards

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By Jessica Dunn

 

On April 24, 2025, the UConn Early College Experience community gathered at the UConn Alumni Center in Storrs to celebrate the exceptional educators and administrators who have gone above and beyond in their roles as UConn ECE partners. The 2025 Professional Recognition Awards Ceremony honored individuals whose dedication and leadership have made a lasting impact on students and the broader ECE community.

 

The event opened with remarks from Christopher Todd, Executive Director of the Office of Early College Programs (OECP), and Dr. Tadarrayl Starke, Vice Provost for Undergraduate Student Success. Representing UConn’s senior administration, Dr. Starke delivered a warm welcome and expressed deep appreciation for the critical role UConn ECE instructors and administrators play in promoting student success at the high school level, while laying a strong foundation for future academic achievement.

 

The evening featured heartfelt speeches, meaningful reflections, and joyful celebration as twelve professionals were recognized with the 2024–2025 Professional Recognition Awards. In addition, four long-standing partners received the prestigious Silver Jubilee Award, commemorating 25 years of service and partnership with UConn ECE.

 

Each award recipient was nominated by colleagues, students, administrators, or UConn faculty, and selected for their exemplary instruction, leadership, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence. Their efforts consistently surpass program expectations, empowering students to thrive and preparing them for success in college and beyond.

 

Congratulations to all recipients of this year’s awards. Your dedication, leadership, and commitment continue to set the standard for excellence within the UConn ECE community. The UConn Early College Experience program is stronger and more impactful because of your contributions, and we are sincerely grateful for all you do.

 

Thomas E. Recchio Faculty Coordinator Award for Academic Leadership
Fatma Selampinar, Chemistry— University of Connecticut

 

Principal Award for Program Support & Advocacy
John Harris, Naugatuck High School

 

Site Representative Award for Excellence in Program Administration
Stephani Jones, Norwich Free Academy

 

Instructor Award for Excellence in Course Instruction
David Brewer, Physics— Bristol Central High School
Paul Courtois, American Studies — Rockville High School
Lisa Gardner, English— East Haven High School
Alexa Rea Kydd, English — East Lyme High School
Concetta Scarfone, Italian Literature & Cultural Studies
— Holy Cross High School
Thomas Young, Statistics — The Woodstock Academy

 

“Rookie of the Year” Award for Excellence in First-Year Course Instruction
Mathew Apgar, Physics — Fairfield Warde High School
Brendan Giolitto, English — Staples High School

 

Library Media Specialist Awards for Excellence in Enrichment & Collaboration
Kristie Kriss — Norwich Free Academy

Silver Jubilee Award
Barbara Dougan, Spanish — Glastonbury High School
James Doyle, Mathematics — Hall High School
Douglas Hutton, Physics — Glastonbury High School
Albert Wallace, Physics — St. Paul Catholic High School

High School Engagement

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By Jessica Dunn / Image by Carissa Rutkauskas

 

In the winter 2024–2025 edition of our magazine, we introduced a map showcasing the Connecticut high schools that participated in UConn ECE student events during the Fall semester. Since then, the map has been expanded to capture the full scope of the 2024–2025 academic year—including all student events held throughout the Spring semester.

 

This updated version reveals an even broader level of engagement, with many additional high schools now represented. The growth in participation highlights the increasing enthusiasm among schools across the state to connect with UConn ECE student enrichment opportunities with a deep investment and emphasis on access for all students. From large urban districts to small rural communities, the updated map tells a compelling story of how academic curiosity and opportunity continue to spread.

We’re proud to see such strong involvement from our partner schools and applaud the efforts of instructors, students, and UConn ECE Faculty Coordinators who make these valuable learning opportunities possible. We look forward to continuing this momentum and encourage all high schools to take advantage of the valuable opportunities available to students across various disciplines.

New Faculty Coordinators

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By Carissa Rutkauskas

 

Faculty Coordinators are the essential academic bridge between UConn and our high school partner sites, upholding the standards and integrity of UConn Early College Experience. As UConn professors, they bring their disciplinary expertise and departmental values directly to UConn ECE Instructors by reviewing certification applications, leading professional development, visiting classrooms, and ensuring that each course mirrors its on-campus equivalent. Their work helps maintain academic comparability while cultivating strong collegial relationships with instructors across Connecticut. While some Faculty Coordinators serve for just a few years, others have dedicated decades to this role, shaping the quality and consistency of UConn ECE. With ongoing growth in program offerings and departmental shifts, we are proud to welcome our newest Faculty Coordinators and thank all who serve for their commitment to academic excellence. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Gustavo Nanclares (Spanish), Laurie Wolfley (American Studies and Maritime Studies), and Matthew McKenzie (American Studies) for their years of dedicated service in the role of Faculty Coordinator, as they leave their position as Faculty Coordinator with UConn ECE.

UConn ECE Health Sciences Day

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By Dr. C. Michael White

 

This year’s Health Sciences Day at the UConn School of Pharmacy brought together high school students from East Lyme, RHAM, and Waterbury high schools. They engaged with UConn faculty members (Ms. Laura Nolan and Drs. C. Michael White, Robin Bogner, Jennifer Girotto, and Nathaniel Rickles), a CVS pharmacist/UConn Alum ‘93 (Dr. Galushko), and a P4 Pharmacy Student (Ms. White) in three hands-on activities.

 

First, they navigated a cardiac arrest on our simulation manikin where they had to recognize the rhythm, give chest compressions and mask valve artificial breathing, and then select, draw up and administer the correct doses of drugs in between defibrillator shocks. Next, they moved to the compounding laboratory where they were able to create brand new dosage forms. This is something that pharmacists do for patients who cannot tolerate the normal doses of medications, cannot swallow pills, or require a cream that does not exist commercially. Finally, they learned how to draw up medications like vaccines, insulin, and weight loss drugs into syringes, expel the air bubbles, and administer them properly in muscle or the subcutaneous fat of the arms or belly.

 

This was followed by a luncheon with pizza, a brief presentation on careers in pharmacy ranging from community, hospital, nuclear, pharmaceutical industry, and managed care settings, and then informal discussions about the day’s events. Students loved intermingling with those from other schools, seeing the UConn campus, and applying what they learned in their UConn ECE courses to real world scenarios, but in a simulated environment.

Recognizing the 2024-2025 UConn ECE Student Scholarship Winners

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By Jessica Dunn

 

The UConn Early College Experience (ECE) Office is proud to announce the seven exceptional recipients of the 2024–2025 UConn ECE Student Scholarships. Following a highly competitive and rigorous review process, these outstanding high school seniors were selected for their academic excellence, thoughtful project submissions, and future aspirations.

 

Each recipient has been awarded a $1,000 scholarship, applicable to any institution of higher education. To be eligible, students must have successfully completed at least one UConn ECE course and demonstrated a strong commitment to academic growth.

 

We congratulate the 2024–2025 scholarship winners and commend them for their achievements and dedication to learning. Their accomplishments reflect the values and academic standards of the UConn ECE program, and we look forward to seeing their continued success in the future.

 

Excellence in the Arts, Humanities, or Social Sciences

 

Winners demonstrate academic achievement and a potential for future academic and professional accomplishments in a field focusing on the Arts, Humanities, and/or Social Sciences.

 

MACIE BRAZAL, East Hampton High School

 

JASMIN GARCIA-CORONAD, Crosby High School

 

Excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

 

MADELYN SYME, South Windsor High School

 

SUJAY CHAVA, Academy of Aerospace and Engineering

 

RANIAH IMRAN, Academy of Information Technology & Engineering

 

Winners demonstrate academic achievement and a potential for future academic and professional accomplishments in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and/or Mathematics.

 

Excellence in Civic and Community Engagement

 

Winners demonstrate academic achievement and already making a positive difference in their town or neighborhood and are inspiring others to do the same. The students chosen for this award are UConn ECE Students who demonstrate ambition and self-drive evidenced by outstanding achievement in both school and their community.

 

MEERA KANNAN, South Windsor High School

 

OLIVIA NOWAK, Farmington High School

 

Scholarship Winners

Introduction to New Pre-College Summer Director

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By Bobbi-Jo Wathen

 

In February, Dr. Bobbi-Jo Wathen joined UConn full time as the Director of Pre-College Summer. She is no stranger to UConn’s Office of Early College Programs as she has been a Site Representative for the UConn Early College Experience program since 2014. Dr. Wathen has also been teaching in the UConn Counselor Education Master’s program since 2018 when she started her doctoral studies at the University. As a doctoral student from 2018 through 2023 her research focused on supporting black males through post-secondary transitions. Her mentors created opportunities to publish several works on this topic, contributing to the academic discourse. Her desire to engage in this research began when she was a high school counselor, and she witnessed the inequities in college access.

 

 

In 2011, she earned her master’s degree in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in School Counseling from Cambridge College and started a wonderful career in school counseling. Since then, she has worked in a variety of school settings and supported numerous students as they explored careers and made postsecondary plans. She has been a longtime advocate for high quality rigorous education for all and worked alongside organizations like the Legal Defense Fund, The Sheff Foundation, and NCWIT’s Counselors for Computing to create a real impact for students and families.

 

In her most recent position, she was the School Counseling Department Head at a large title one school district in CT. In this leadership role, she was able to adjust her service to supporting school counselors and district leaders with the same goal in mind, providing exceptional rigorous education for students that lead to positive postsecondary outcomes. During this time, she worked closely with CT Rise to create functional systems that evaluate school level data to impact student success as students transition into high school and out of high school.

 

Becoming a full-time Husky has brought much joy. From Johnathan sightings, basketball games, the beautiful sunsets, and a lively quad on a warm day are the things that make UConn special to her. More than that, she has really enjoyed preparing for her first summer welcoming high school students from around the globe to UConn’s Pre-College Summer program. She can’t wait to watch young high school students fall in love with UConn and build the confidence they need to find a sense of belonging in college. She believes every young person should have a champion telling them they CAN and SHOULD pursue higher education if they want to. This program has the opportunity to give that to the young people who find their way to campus.

Stakeholder Appreciation 2025

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By Carissa Rutkauskas

 

As part of our annual stakeholder appreciation efforts, the UConn Early College Experience program proudly recognized the invaluable contributions of school counselors, teachers, and principals who support and champion UConn ECE at their high schools. In celebration of National School Counseling Week (February), Teacher Appreciation Week (May), and Principal Appreciation Week (May), we honored those who go above and beyond to ensure student success within the program. For the first time, we launched School Counselor Appreciation Week to spotlight both our Site Representatives and the broader counseling staff who guide students through course selection and enrollment in UConn ECE. During Teacher Appreciation Week—now in its second year—we celebrated instructors who bring UConn courses to life in high school classrooms with passion and dedication. Principal Appreciation Week, also newly introduced this year, acknowledged school leaders who create a supportive environment that allows the program to thrive. This year, we received an overwhelming 300+ nominations for instructors, 132 for school counselors, and 16 for principals—each submission filled with gratitude and admiration for these outstanding educators and leaders. Selected recipients—defined by receiving two or more nominations in the counselor and teacher categories— were awarded UConn ECE merchandise of their choice, a printed poster featuring heartfelt quotes from nominators, and recognition on our social media platforms. These recognitions underscore the collaborative spirit and dedication of educators and administrators who help shape meaningful academic opportunities for students through UConn ECE. Below are some of the more powerful quotes from nominators:

 

Principal Appreciation (Mr. Kuckel, Cromwell High School)

 

• Principal Kuckel’s consistent message to students, families, and staff is that dual enrollment courses help students prepare for college and their future careers. He has increased our ECE student enrollment and course offerings during his administration by adding five new courses.

 

– Principal Kuckel is always promoting awareness about the value and accessibility of these courses in a variety of ways. He thinks about all of our students and understands the value for every student tohave college exposure in addition to earning credits. His availability, flexibility and unconditional support is appreciated by our instructors, our students, and myself!
– Alicia Melillo, UConn ECE Site Representative, Cromwell High School

 

School Counselor Appreciation
• Danielle Jurkiewicz, Fairfield Warde High School

 

– Mrs. J, my school counselor, played a pivotal role in my success by helping me stay focused on my path toward my early childhood education major at UConn. She worked with me to plan my senior schedule, supported my decision to take the ECE course, and reassured me when I doubted myself— and now I’m excelling in the class, grateful for her encouragement to follow my passion.
– Saylor, UConn ECE Student

 

• Janine Murdy, Woodland Regional High School
– Mrs. Murdy is a UConn alum who continually promotes ECE programs to our students. She starts promoting these programs when we register students in 8th grade and continues to challenge students to enroll in challenging courses throughout their high school years.
– Principal Mulligan, Woodland Regional High School

 

• Kate Kopylec, UConn ECE Site Representative; Lyman Hall High School
– Throughout the UConn ECE experience, Mrs. Kopylec has provided clear information on what ECE classes are, deadlines and requirements for registering (also visiting all ECE classes to assist in the registration process), and scholarship information. Her support has made my (and others) ECE experience less stressful/overwhelming.
– Anonymous UConn ECE Student

 

Instructor Appreciation
• Monika Fryc-Gabrys, Woodland Regional High School, MATH 1131Q: Calculus I
– “Monika inspires her students daily. She advises the Math Team and has generated huge participation in the Team… Recently she led a 14-hour math challenge at school and took students to a Jumanji math challenge… Her students have given such positive feedback on the UConn ECE exit survey. She has high standards and her students meet with great success. She continues to get letters from her former students thanking her! She is a true gem!”
– Andrea Gaetano, Math Department Chairperson

 

• Mr. Dalidowitz, Crosby High School, SOCI 1001: Introduction to Sociology; HRTS 1007: Introduction to Human Rights; & HRTS 2200: Introduction to Genocide Studies
– “My UConn ECE Instructor is awesome because they challenge us to think critically, push us beyond high school expectations, and genuinely care about our success. Their passion for teaching and real-world insights make learning both engaging and impactful!”
– Jasmine, UConn ECE Student

 

• Dr. Rabinsky-Ankrom, Robert E. Fitch High School, ASLN 1102: Elementary American Sign Language II
– “Dr. RA is a teacher every student wishes they had. She truly connects with each and every one of her students and pushes us to be ourselves while also learning a language that brings people together… I can confidently say that she has made a big impact on my life.”
– Anonymous UConn ECE Student

 

• Mrs. Norige, Torrington High School, SPSS 3230: Biotechnology- Science, Application, Impact,
Perception; BIOL 1107: Principles of Biology I; & BIOL 1108: Principles of Biology II
– “Mrs. Norige always promotes classes to students who are interested and has pushed to make UConn courses available for all incoming interested students.”
– Anonymous UConn ECE Student

 

• Mr. Brewer, Bristol Central High School, PHYS 1201Q: General Physics I & PHYS 1202Q: General Physics II
– “Mr. Brewer pours his heart out into teaching us physics and makes it extremely fun to learn about. He spends countless hours making sure each and every student understands what they are doing and enjoys their time in physics and is all around a fantastic teacher.”
– Amber, UConn ECE Student