Annual Report 2015-16

This 2015-16 Annual Report highlights the past year at Eastern Connecticut State University. It focuses on the achievements of our students and faculty, as they pursue excellence on campus, in our local community, and in regional, national, and international settings. Their accomplishments this past year reaffirmed the importance of a liberal arts education in today's complex world.

Eastern students contributed thousands of hours of volunteer time in local schools and nonprofit agencies; won statewide awards; presented their research at national conferences in Washington, DC and elsewhere; and won internships to South Africa and Japan.

Eastern's faculty received statewide awards, published books; and were immersed in their own research, while also guiding their students towards academic excellence. Several Eastern faculty were featured on national television documentary series, while others performed on campus in vocal and musical recitals.

This report also shares news of our new 118,000 square-foot Fine Arts Instructional Center, which opened in January 2016. Our goal is to make this a cultural center for the entire northeastern Connecticut region.

There are also a number of stories in this report that focus on new or expanded relationships Eastern has developed with key Connecticut businesses; with community groups; and with other educational institutions-all with the purpose of expanding the experiences of Eastern students as they prepare for successful careers and public life as engaged citizens.

The most important sign of success for any university is how well its graduates are doing. The stories I hear from our graduates each week tell me that Eastern alumni are doing very well, using their degrees to pursue outstanding professional careers, while serving their own communities as engaged citizen leaders.

Take a moment to look back at the wonderful year that Eastern experienced. Share this news with friends and family, and feel free to 'brag' about Eastern. We hope you share in our pride!

Elsa M. Núñez
President