The Charger Blog
A Mandate for Internationalization
President Jens Frederiksen accelerates the University’s focus on a shrinking world.
The Charger Blog 2025
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New Graduate Shares Journey Leading to Role at One of the World’s Leading Medical Device Companies
Alexandra Iozzo ’25 shares how the AV’s mechanical engineering program and a strong alumni network helped her land a role as a quality engineer at Medtronic, one of the world’s leading medical device companies.
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International Student, Computer Science Major Builds Skills and Confidence
A native of Jamaica, Shana-Kay Hyde ’27 shares how she’s using her college experience to pursue her dream of starting a software company.
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AV Again Commended as a College of Distinction
For the 15th consecutive year, a respected national guide has recognized the AV, applauding the student-focused, career-driven experiences offered across its curriculum. The University’s programs in engineering and business received special recognition.
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Lecturer Writes Chart-Topping Book on Rhythm, Creativity, and Music Education
AV lecturer Shawn Persinger discusses his new book, “Creative Rhythms for Melodic Instruments or Think Like a Drummer,” which blends his lifelong passion for music with an innovative approach to teaching, composing, and creativity.
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Criminal Justice Major Reflects on Attending Influential Youth Justice Conference
Dominic Marchall ’26 shares what it was like attending the Tow Youth Justice Institute’s Pathways to Success conference and the powerful voices that shaped the experience.
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University’s Robotics Team Rises to the Challenge at International Rover Competition
A dedicated group of students from the AV Robotics Club placed 13th in the world at the 2025 University Rover Challenge—outperforming teams from some of the top engineering schools in the country.
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AV’s WeEmbody Lab Awarded for its Impact on Health Equity
Honored by the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce at its annual Health Care & Life Sciences Awards, the University’s WeEmbody Lab was recognized for its leadership in promoting mental wellness and health equity through research, advocacy, and student mentorship.
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Mechanical Engineering Alumna Found Her Future at Leading Aerospace Company
Angela Mercaldi ’25 turned her passion for engineering and drive as a student-athlete into a full-time role at Pratt & Whitney. Her story is one of persistence, mentorship, and finding passion through hands-on experience.
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Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program Earns National CACREP Accreditation
A successful networking mixer and national accreditation highlight a semester of progress and community-building for the AV’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program.
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Charger Filmmakers Win Big in Prestigious Student Production Awards
With six wins and three honorable mentions, AV students were recognized by the Boston/New England Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences for their exceptional storytelling, direction, cinematography, and editing across fiction and nonfiction films.
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Employee Enthusiasm, Energy, and Dedication Commended at Annual Chargers Celebrate Event
While closing the book on another productive academic year, staff and faculty gathered to celebrate their hard work, dedication, energy, and enthusiasm that make every year a success here at Charger Nation.
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Cybersecurity Competition Draws Record Participation
A virtual Capture the Flag event sponsored by the AV’s Connecticut Institute of Technology and its Hacking Club drew more than 2,500 participations and awarded nearly $50,000 in prizes. Ronal Scarpa ’25, ’26 M.S. reflects on organizing this high-impact cybersecurity competition.
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Students Explore Real-World Impact of Economic Research
Two AV students share how presenting their research at the Pennsylvania Economic Association’s Conference helped them grow as scholars and problem-solvers, deepening their commitment to tackling real-world policy issues.
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Student Journalist Reflects on Winning First Place in Writing Contest
Communications major Gabriella Pinto ’26 shares how an extra-credit assignment became an award-winning piece and a personal turning point.
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Paddling with Power: Charlie’s Chargers Excel in Dragon Boat Race
AV’s Charlie’s Chargers finished third and earned the Spirit Award at the Canal Dock Boathouse’s 8th Annual Dragon Boat Regatta, blending school spirit, teamwork, and community connection.
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University’s Inaugural Participation in Prestigious International Program Earns Global Recognition
Nipson K C ’25 M.S. introduced the Hult Prize, often referred to as the Nobel Prize for students, to the AV, establishing the University’s participation in the business- and innovation-driven social-impact initiative from the ground up.
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Public Health Professor Builds Collaboration Between University and Local Health Departments
Professor Jamie Luckhardt, MPH, CHES, has made it her mission to strengthen the partnership between the University and the local health industry, as well as provide her students with real-world learning opportunities.
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Psychology Professor, Psychology Major Recognized with Prestigious University Awards
Melissa Whitson, Ph.D. was presented the University’s William L. Bucknall Excellence in Teaching Award and Achilles Atticus Callahan Beumel ’26 received the Bucknall Family Undergraduate Research or Experiential Learning Award.
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Center for Learning Resources Recognized for Commitment to Supporting Student Success
AV’s Center for Learning Resources has been recertified by the College Reading and Learning Association, reaffirming its commitment to providing peer and professional tutoring that meets the highest national standards.
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Faculty Members Recognized for Excellence In and Out of Classroom
The University community proudly celebrated the excellence of 11 faculty members at the annual Faculty Excellence Awards, recognizing their dedication to their students, their educational journeys, and their future success.
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A Robot Dog Is Helping the AV Showcase Its Cutting-Edge Engineering Work
AV highlighted its growing impact in robotics, AI, cybersecurity, and more at the first-ever Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology (CCAT) Day at the Connecticut State Capitol — demonstrating the University's growing impact on the state’s tech future.
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Sigma Chi’s Derby Days Fundraiser Sets Record
Led by philanthropy chair Matthew Muriel ’26, the AV’s Sigma Chi chapter raised more than $32,000 for the Huntsman Cancer Institute—representing the most raised in the chapter’s history and pushing their total raised over the years past $200,000.
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Hospitality and Tourism Students Design Flavorful Culinary Trail Supporting Connecticut Tourism
Students in the Pompea College of Business applied their creativity and strategic thinking to design a statewide tourism trail celebrating ethnic cuisine. Their work is now featured on CTvisit.com.
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Big Ideas Brought to Life at the Pompea College of Business’s Pitch Competition
Inspired by a love of reading and a desire to reduce screen time, a student team took first place in the Pompea College of Business’s Spring 2025 BUSA 1000 EXPO with their pitch for Snuggle Tales.
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Historian Briefs U.S. Military Advisors Bound for Baltic Countries
Professor Bradley Woodworth met for two and a half days with specialized U.S. Army soldiers at Fort Carson, Colorado, discussing with them the people, history, and current security situation in the Baltic countries of Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia.
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National Security Major Reflects on Meeting Ukrainian Senior Lieutenant and Combat Veteran
Christopher Rynich ’26 M.S. was among those in the audience as senior Lieutenant Mykola Melnyk, a veteran of the Ukrainian 47th Mechanized Brigade visited campus to interact with students.
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World-Renowned Forensic Scientist Urges Class of 2025 to Embrace Power of Positive Thinking
Dr. Henry C. Lee, who is celebrating his 50th anniversary at the University, delivered the Commencement address during the ceremony for undergraduate candidates, and his wife, Xiaping Jiang Lee, a distinguished author, screenwriter, and educator, was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree.
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Grad Student Commencement Speaker Encourages Classmates: ‘It is Our Turn to Pay it Forward’
AV recognized its newest graduates who earned master's and doctoral degrees during two ceremonies as part of its 2025 Commencement. The celebrations included special messages shared by graduates who were selected through a competitive process to address their fellow graduates.
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From the Classroom to the FBI: Graduate Reflects on Journey Studying National Security
After four unforgettable years filled with hands-on internships, global study opportunities, and FBI training, Maverick Melchiore ’25 shares how the AV prepared him to pursue his passion for national security.
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Professor Contributes to International Collaboration Examining AI and Democracy
Associate history professor April Yoder, Ph.D., shares her journey from cultural research to taking a leadership role in the development of global AI policy, highlighting how applied learning and an international collaboration are guiding the future of technology and democracy
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A Graduate Shares Journey from Kosovo to the AV
In a powerful message to the Class of 2025, Esma Fera ’25 explains what the AV means to her, as she reflects on the impact of her time as a Charger.
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Immersive Audio Upgrade Enhances Student Learning Experience
AV’s newly upgraded immersive audio suite sparked a multi-state panel discussion, connecting students, alumni, and industry pros to explore the power of 3D sound and its growing role in music, film, and media production.
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Fire Science Students Earn Top Honors for Arson Detection Research
AV students Lauren Mulinski ’25 and Alison Perry ’24, MS ’26 were awarded “Best Overall Research Poster” at the International Association of Arson Investigators’ International Training Conference for their project examining homemade napalm detection by accelerant canines.
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Staff Member and Alumnus Honored for Five Decades of Giving Back
In a heartfelt celebration on Giving Day, the AV honored Rich DeMusis ’77, a beloved alumnus, dedicated staff member, and generous donor whose giving has spanned nearly half a century.
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Graduating Psychology Major Reflects on a Life-Changing Four Years as a Charger
Kelsey Ann McDonnell ’25 shares how research, study abroad, and close friendships shaped her journey—and what’s next as she prepares to continue her education at the University of Edinburgh.
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Investigations Graduate Student Reflects on Identity, Resilience, and the Power of Representation
Omar Chung ’25 M.S. shares his journey as a Black, Deaf, gay, first-generation graduate and what it means to lead with authenticity.
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From 11:59 p.m. Deadlines to Commencement: New M.S. in Business Analytics Graduate Celebrates the Journey
In a witty and heartfelt commencement reflection, Samuel Rathan Joy Alavala ’25 M.S. shares his experience—from switching majors and crossing continents to finding friendship, faith, and a new future at the AV.
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Chemical Engineering Students Make a Big Impact at Chem-E-Car Competition
A team of AV students excelled in the regional Chem-E-Car competition, showcasing a unique design and earning big results—placing fifth against top-tier research institutions.
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Charger Blogger and Nutrition Scientist Major Gives the ‘Scoop’ on Peanut Butter
From the airwaves to the snack aisle, Beatrice Glaviano ’26 shares a behind-the-scenes look at her experience on Charger 360, the story behind “peace, love, and peanut butter,” and the nutrition behind this nutty spread.
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Students Make Game-Changing Connections at 3rd Annual Sports Industry Career Fair
Students Elyse Genaway ’28 and Shealin Callahan ’26 M.S. share how the AV’s Sports Industry Career Fair helped them expand their networks, discover new career paths, and gain real-world opportunities in the sports world.
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AV Students Present Research During Conference at Yale
AV students explored topics ranging from wartime trauma to disinformation campaigns while building academic and professional connections in the field of Russian, East European, and Eurasian studies.
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Charger Blogger Finds Balance and Learns From Failure
From collapsed babka to finals stress, student blogger Beatrice Glaviano ’26 finds peace in a stressful time and reflects on how to grow from moments of failure.
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Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences Celebrates Exemplary Student Achievement
Honors students and award recipients were recognized for their academic excellence, leadership, and dedication to making a difference in public safety and law enforcement.
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Data Science Graduate Student Found Strength, Community, and a New Home at the AV
After moving from Ghana to pursue her master’s in data science, Fali Honutse ’25 M.S. experienced more than academic success — she built lasting connections, an unwavering resilience, and a true sense of belonging.
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Professor and Public Health Students Reflect on Presenting at a National Conference
Three undergraduates and their professor share their powerful experiences at the Society for Public Health Education’s annual conference, where they presented original research, engaged with national leaders, and deepened their passion for community health equity.
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Business Analytics Graduate Student Finds Her Path to Success
Katherine Nicholson ’25 M.S. shares how her drive, adaptability, and early career experiences helped her navigate job offers and find the right next step.
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Group of Exemplary Undergrads Prepare for Summer of Intensive Research Projects
Nine Chargers were selected to participate in this year’s Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship program. They will collaborate with faculty on research ranging from the impact of microplastics, the financial implications of ethical uses of AI, and potential discriminatory practices in the hiring of educators.
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From the Classroom to the Cassette — Music Major Showcases a Decade of University Hip-Hop
Cristina Shaul ’25, a music major, turned an independent research project into a hands-on lesson in album production — compiling, licensing, designing, and marketing a limited-edition cassette that celebrates 10 years of creativity in the University’s Hip-Hop Technology and Production course.
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Bridging Academia and Industry: How a Computer Science Professor is Preparing Students for Real-World Success
Selected for a prestigious national fellowship, Mehdi Mekni, Ph.D., is leading efforts to transform computer science education through industry partnerships, stackable credentials, and workforce-driven learning.
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Lee College Alumnus and Ph.D. candidate Recognized by Polish National Police
Patryk Jaroszkiewicz '16, '20 M.S., who is pursuing his Ph.D. in criminal justice, received a prestigious civilian honor from the Commander of the Polish National Police for his work bridging two distinctly different police forces.
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Charger Blogger Explores the Role of AI in Learning
Beatrice Glaviano ’26 reflects on the balance between technology, academic integrity, and the use of AI as a supportive tool rather than a substitute.
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Students Get ‘Application Ready’ Through New Career Development Initiative
A new course launched by the AV’s Career Development Center is helping to ensure students are prepared to apply for internships and jobs. ‘Application Ready’ provides essential resources on resumes, networking, and interviewing—all in one place.
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California’s State Controller Helps Launch University’s Trailblazing Women Speaker Series, Discussing Leadership, Public Service, and Breaking Barriers
In honor of Women’s History Month, Malia Cohen, California’s State Controller reflected on her journey into public service, the challenges of leadership, and the impact of policy work, as she joined President Frederiksen to kick off the AV’s Frederiksen Forum: Trailblazing Women speaker series.
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Charger Blogger: Quarter-Life Crises and Figuring It Out as We Go
Beatrice Glaviano ’26 shares her take on getting older, the grind of college, and remembering to have a life outside of it all.
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Students Created Web Apps, Video Games and AI-Generated Navigation Systems at the University’s First Hackathon
Industry sponsors called HackNewHaven a resounding success as students from universities across Connecticut and Massachusetts collaborated, developed tech products, and presented their innovations as part of the student-run hackathon.
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AV Researchers Focus on Advancing Health Equity
A research collaboration between graduate students and Dr. Pavani Rangachari has resulted in a groundbreaking two-part study on how hospitals address social determinants of health (SDOH).
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Charger Blogger Hikes and Ponders the Meaning of Life
Beatrice Glaviano ’26 shares her Spring Break journey of hiking Great Falls—and why unplugging is essential for college life.
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Chargers Bridge Research and Advocacy While Presenting Key Research at New York City Event
Student researchers at the undergraduate and graduate level presented at the Born This Way Foundation’s event in NYC, sharing insights from their focus groups with LGBTQ+ youth.
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Recognizing a Commitment to Youth Justice Reform
Samantha Villa ’25 was recognized by the University’s Tow Youth Justice Institute with the Diane Sierpina Award. Through advocacy, leadership, and research, she is working to create meaningful change for young people in the justice system.
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Marvin K. Peterson Library Launches Its First Digital Exhibit
“Resilience, Reflection, and Reclamation,” an online exhibit, features the work of Hector (Bori) Rodriguez, who uses repurposed material to create art that celebrates nature and also explores mass incarceration, mental health, and the transformative power that art can have on a life.
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Honoring the Legacy of Vietnam Veterans at the AV
AV is recognizing the service and sacrifices of Vietnam Veterans through a series of events and initiatives leading up to the 50th anniversary of the war’s end. Faculty, students, and veterans reflect on the importance of this commemoration and the lessons it offers to future generations.
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STEM-Focused Career Fair Opens Doors for Students
AV’s STEM Career Fair provided students with opportunities to network with industry professionals, explore potential careers, and showcase their experience and confidence.
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Exploring Experimental Sound: A Conversation with Professor and Electronic Musician Anthony Goodfellow
Music and Sound Recording major Mattingly Creter ’27 sat down with Professor Goodfellow to talk about his recent tour, latest album, and the evolution of his music.
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Model United Nation Team Reflects on Transformative Trip to the Galápagos
AV Model UN students traveled to Ecuador for an international conference. They honed their diplomatic skills, formed lasting friendships, and explored one of the world’s most breathtaking environments.
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Turning Research into Action: Lessons from a Public Health Educator and Student
Alvin Tran, ScD, MPH, and Krupa Ann Mathew, ’25 MPH recently had the opportunity to present their research on identifying and treating eating disorders to a group of healthcare providers working in school-based health centers, earning a strong endorsement from an important Connecticut leader.
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Dining Services Chef Honored with National Sodexo Award
Kenny Langston, a beloved member of the AV’s dining team was recognized for making a lasting impact on students through positivity, engagement, and a viral social media moment.
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Charger Blogger Embraces Love, Food, and Local Pets
From heart-shaped pancakes to a new pet fish, Beatrice Glaviano ’26 reminds us that love—whether for yourself or others—should be celebrated every day.
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Charger Blogger Explores New Haven: Visiting the Peabody Museum
Beatrice Glaviano ’26 shares weekend plan ideas and why this a certain local gem deserves a visit.
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Sports Management Grad Reflects on Role Helping to Secure 2030 FIFA World Cup in Home Country of Portugal
Simão Sousa Branca ’18 M.S., part of the Portuguese Football Federation, is a member of the team that found out at the end of 2024 that Portugal, along with Spain and Morocco, will host the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
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Public Health Graduate Students Present Impactful Research at Conference on Rural Health
Three MPH students share their reflections on presenting their research at an academic conference.
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Canal Dock Boathouse Programs Empower Local High Schoolers through Hands-On Learning
AV's Robert M. Lee and Linda M. Wilkins Marine Science Center at the Canal Dock Boathouse in New Haven is becoming a hub for marine science education and community outreach, providing students and the community with opportunities to learn about and engage directly with the environment.
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Visit Builds Foundation for Collaboration Opportunities with University in Albania
University and Lee College leaders coordinated a visit to Connecticut for a contingent from the University of Tirana, Albania, further strengthening the AV’s role as a leader in fostering global academic partnerships.
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Charger Blogger, Nutrition Sciences Major Investigates the Link Between Acne, Diet, and Skincare
From Cleopatra’s beauty secrets to modern skincare, Beatrice Glaviano ’26 unpacks the science behind acne and whether nutrition holds the key to clearer skin.
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Model UN Team Shines at D.C. Conference
AV’s Model United Nations (MUN) team excelled at another conference, earning multiple awards and showcasing their teamwork, diplomacy, and leadership skills.
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Professor Receives $600,000 Mellon Foundation Grant to Expand Nonprofit Providing Job Skills, Hope to Young People in Detention Centers
English professor Randall Horton, Ph.D., who founded Radical Reversal, said the Mellon grant will give young people in a detention center in his home city of Birmingham, Alabama, and youths living in the neighborhood around it the chance to develop skills in digital content creation, podcasting, film, music production, and graphic design.
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New Weather Station Enhances Professor's Climate Research
A new weather station on the Branford Trolley Trail is upgrading environmental research and data collection, offering real-time insights into the effects of climate change on coastal ecosystems.
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Charger Blogger and Nutrition Sciences Major Talks Staying Healthy with Sugar
Beatrice Glaviano ’26 breaks down the science of sugar, the myths, and why donuts still deserve a place in our lives this semester.
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Innovative Ideas Take Center Stage at University’s Business Expo
The BUSA1000 EXPO showcased the innovative spirit of AV students, with 42 teams presenting business plans and competing in a pitch competition. The winning team, Pets on Wheels, impressed the judges with their entrepreneurial vision and adaptability.
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Charger Blogger Reflects on Importance of Starting Strong and Staying Consistent
Nutrition sciences major Beatrice Glaviano ’26 shares her tips for tackling the new semester with energy, grit, and plenty of peanut butter.
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An Alumna’s Journey from Student-Run Horseshoe Magazine to Newsweek
Amanda Castro ’22 shares how her time at the AV shaped her love for journalism, preparing her for a fast-paced role covering the 2024 election for Newsweek.
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Doctor of Health Sciences Graduates Celebrate Milestone Thesis Publications
For the first time, theses written by recent graduates of the AV's Doctor of Health Sciences (DHSc) program, launched in 2021, have been published in the Journal of Healthcare Leadership (JHL), a highly respected peer-reviewed journal indexed in PubMed and the Web of Science.
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Visiting Scholar Bridges Borders in Healthcare
AV welcomed Dr. Kateryna Lokes, a Ukrainian oral surgeon and visiting scholar, for a six-week fellowship through the BridgeUSA program. Her visit brought new perspectives on healthcare, resilience, and academic collaboration to the University community.
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An Inside Look at How a AV Finance Major Landed a Job at Deloitte
With a combination of determination, networking, and diverse experiences, Thomas Portnoy ‘25 has secured his dream job, and he is gearing up for a promising career in finance.
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From Fast-Track Graduate to Financial Advisor: A Journey in Wealth Management
Armani Miller-Jackson ‘16, ‘17 MBA discusses how the AV helped shape his path to career success in finance at UBS, one of the largest banks in the world.