A Night of Connection and Generosity: Rowayton Celebrates Carver on the Sound

Lakia (speaking) standing next to her mother, Lynette Brayboy

Last night, the Carver community came together in a beautiful celebration of connection, generosity, and purpose at the Rowayton Connections Party, graciously hosted by Margie and Jim Shaughnessy at their stunning home overlooking Long Island Sound. The evening brought together nearly 100 guests in support of Carver’s transformative afterschool, summer, and community programs.

The event was co-chaired by Julia Massengill and Rob Strickland, whose leadership helped bring the evening to life. Joining them in planning and hospitality were the dedicated committee members: Barclay and Scott Bowen, Kay and Jay Garrett, Emily and Rob Grabowski, Jenny and Tommy Gresinger, Megan and Paul Hudson, Julia and J.D. Massengill, Hannah and Will Robertson, Kim and Drew Seath, Meg and Steve Schwanhausser, and Amy and Rob Strickland. Their shared commitment created an atmosphere of warmth and community that defined the night.

Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin standing with another speaker, Jackie Price.

The most memorable moments came from the heartfelt words of Carver program participants and alumni. Speakers included Lakia Brayboy, her mother Lynette, Myles Russell, and Jackie Price—all of whom shared moving stories of their Carver journeys. Myles, now attending Southern State, reflected on the impact of Carver’s college tours and scholarships on his academic path. He was joined by his brother Ryan, a proud graduate of Carver’s Youth Development Program.

Jackie Price, a Carver alumna and current board member of Horizons New Canaan, spoke about her own experience, as well as that of her daughter, who is now continuing the legacy as a Carver student. Their words were powerful reminders of how Carver changes lives across generations, with the steadfast support of our donors, staff, and community.

As the sun set over the water, guests savored delicious fare, engaged in warm conversations, and shared a commitment to helping young people reach their full potential. Events like this one remind us of the profound impact that personal connections and shared values can have on a community.

We extend our deepest thanks to the Shaughnessy family, our extraordinary co-chairs and committee, and every guest who joined us in advancing Carver’s mission. The evening was a celebration of what makes Rowayton and Carver so special: friendship, community, and the enduring spirit of giving.

Carver Future Readiness Coordinators Celebrate Norwalk High School Graduates at 2025 Commencement

On Wednesday, June 11, 2025, Carver Future Readiness Coordinators Iman LaBorde-Mobley and Isiah Gaddy proudly attended the Norwalk High School graduation ceremony, held at the Total Mortgage Arena in Bridgeport. With cameras in hand and pride in their hearts, they captured unforgettable moments of joy, achievement, and celebration.

As full-time Carver counselors embedded within Norwalk High School, Iman and Isiah have spent the year helping students prepare for life after high school—whether through college, career training, or other meaningful pathways. Their work is part of Carver’s Future Readiness initiative, which places two dedicated counselors at both Norwalk and Brien McMahon High Schools to guide students through the critical transition from school to adulthood.

Working closely with Norwalk Public Schools counselors, Carver Future Readiness Coordinators co-design long-term strategies that support academic success, career exploration, and the development of key life skills. They help students set and achieve goals, explore career options, and stay on track to meet high school graduation requirements.

This week’s graduation milestone for our students was a powerful reminder of the impact of caring, consistent adult mentorship. “When students love what they’re learning,” says Iman, “they work harder, dream bigger, and learn more.”

Congratulations to the Norwalk High School Class of 2025! And thank you to Iman and Isiah for the steadfast support you’ve shown each step of the way.

Carver and Norwalk Celebrate Juneteenth 2025: A Community United in History, Heritage, and Hope

Since 1938, Carver has been a beacon of education, unity, and opportunity in Norwalk, and our very name, honoring George Washington Carver, reflects a deep connection to the African American experience and legacy. As our country gathers to commemorate Juneteenth, Carver proudly joins the City of Norwalk and the broader community in honoring this historic occasion with a series of events that reflect our shared past and collective hopes for the future.

A Historical Reflection

Juneteenth, observed annually on or around June 19, commemorates the moment in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Although emancipation was declared in 1863, true freedom for all came only with the ratification of the 13th Amendment later that year. Juneteenth is now celebrated as a symbol of liberation, culture, and the enduring fight for equality.

George Washington Carver lived during the early days of Juneteenth observances, and his life’s work—uplifting African Americans through science, agriculture, and education—inspires our mission to this day.

Carver’s Commitment to Juneteenth

Carver’s celebration of Juneteenth began as small community gatherings that emphasized storytelling, song, and reflection. Today, we continue that tradition, expanding it with youth programming, art, education, and a collective spirit of unity. Each Juneteenth, we educate a new generation about the holiday’s origins, the resilience of the African American community, and the importance of building a just and equitable future for all.

Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future

At Carver, we believe that Juneteenth is a time to look both backward and forward—to remember the struggle for freedom, to celebrate cultural achievements, and to renew our commitment to justice. We are proud to stand with Norwalk in honoring this essential piece of American history.

Join us in the spirit of unity as we celebrate Juneteenth 2025—together, as one community.

Celebrating Promise and Purpose: Carver's 53rd Annual Testimonial Dinner Honors Our Students and Awards $150,000 in College Scholarships

On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, the Carver Community Center was filled with pride, applause, and joyful celebration as we hosted our 53rd Annual Testimonial Dinner. Families, educators, donors, and friends came together to recognize the remarkable achievements of our young people—from elementary school to college.

This cherished annual tradition honors the hard work and growth of Carver students in our Youth Development Program (YDP) and awards college scholarships to graduating high school seniors and continuing college students. Thanks to the generosity of Carver’s donors and scholarship funders, we awarded $150,000 in scholarships this year—an investment in the futures of the next generation of leaders, scholars, and changemakers.

The evening began with an inspiring keynote from Dr. Smana Seradieu, followed by a festive dinner for all honorees and their families. Carver proudly recognized Students of the Year and Most Improved Students across our school-based programs, middle schools, and high schools.

This is the cover of a book of photos about the Carver/NicaPhoto experience.

Dr. Smana Seradieu

Dr. Seradieu’s connection to Carver runs deep. In 2011, as a sophomore at Norwalk High School, she was among a group of Carver students who traveled to Nicaragua for Carver’s first-ever international service trip. The students had been corresponding with peers in Nagarote for a year through a Carver after-school initiative called NicaPhoto. That spring, they finally met in person, working side by side to paint a mural outside a school, plant trees, and install a sustainable vegetable garden. They even raised $700 to help build a one-room home for a needy family.

At the time, Smana, who had moved to Norwalk from Port-au-Prince, Haiti, in 2008 without speaking English, told The Hour, “It means a lot to us to be able to help. I come from a place where I've seen people like this, people in need."

Today, Dr. Seradieu is a Licensed Master Social Worker with a Doctorate in Social Work, leading a life of service and leadership in the fields of mental health and social work. She is the Director of Social Services at CareOne in New Jersey and a consultant for Verrazano Nursing and Post-Acute Center in Staten Island. She is also the founder of Change for Haitian Youth, an organization that creates educational opportunities for children in her hometown of Marchand Dessaline, Haiti.

Her return to Carver as keynote speaker was a full-circle moment that inspired everyone attending the Carver Testimonial Dinner, especially the young students just beginning their own Carver journeys.

Scholarship and Recognition Highlights

Elementary Programs

• Brookside Scholars: Student of the Year – Theodore Lefevre; Most Improved – Sulmin Coloch-Tzunun

• CASPER: Student of the Year – Camiola Ramirez; Most Improved – Sanjay Labaze

• CASPER Graduates: Zamayra Ayo, Faith Hawkins, Marlens Pierre, Milan Ramsubhag

• Fox Run Scholars: Student of the Year – Derius Sharpe; Most Improved – Lizbeth Garcia

• Jefferson Scholars: Students of the Year – Ian Benitez and Selena Perez; Most Improved – Juan Pablo Gonzalez

• Kendall Scholars: Student of the Year – Elisama Caceres; Most Improved – Caleb Pote

• Marvin Scholars: Student of the Year – Valentina Gutierrez; Most Improved – Lisandro Moran

• Naramake Scholars: Students of the Year – Zacharie Gianne and Libang Herrera; Most Improved – Theodore Lynch

• Silvermine Scholars: Student of the Year – Lorena Quintana; Most Improved – Santiago Mesa

• Tracey Scholars: Student of the Year – Michaela Potter; Most Improved – Trinity Ford

Middle Schools

• Nathan Hale: Student of the Year – Lucas Cuevas (6th), Natalia Valdovinos (7th), Leo Pascuilli (8th)
  Most Improved – Jaiden & Arianna Andrews (6th), Sophia Munoz (7th), Jayden Massey (8th)

• Ponus Pride: Students of the Year – Jannatul Ferdous (6th), Valentina Davila (7th), Wayne Hamilton (8th)
  Most Improved – Amairany Mandujano (6th), Rida Deura (7th), Rosmer Mejia (8th)

• Roton RAMS: Students of the Year – Yamilet Lopez (6th), Mayda Icena (7th), Jacob Diaz (8th)
  Most Improved – Maykol Melgar (6th), Veadale Russell (7th), Alexa Flores (8th)

• West Rocks PAWS: Students of the Year – Noel Segovia (6th), Sebastian Pico (7th), Leilani Berberena (8th)
  Most Improved – Joshie Pendergrast (6th), Derek Padilla (7th), Anthony “Big Tone” Perez (8th)

• Side by Side RISE: Students of the Year – Damian Della Bella (6th), Seth Charles (7th), Amy Quinteros (8th)
  Most Improved – Dalton Green (6th), Kayla Favor (7th), Penelope Fisher (8th)

High School YDP (Norwalk High and Brien McMahon)
Outstanding students were recognized across all grades:

• Norwalk High: Students of the Year – Enijah Fleming (9th), Ashley & Jasmine Diaz (10th), Arianna Nembhard (11th), Cindy Concha (12th)
  Most Improved – Sofia Alcabin (9th), Matthew Wynter Diaz (10th), Alexis Delgado (11th), Aniyia Prince (12th)

• Brien McMahon: Students of the Year – Felicia Denis (9th), King Dixon (10th), Pearly Innocent (11th), Miguel Potter (12th)
  Most Improved – Bernard Payant (9th), Pearly Innocent (10th), Fahendra Aurelus (11th), Anthony Deleon (12th)

Carver Jr. YDP

• Students of the Year: Tatyanna Simeon (6th), Jocabeth Medina Alegre (7th), John Akbar (8th)

• Most Improved: Elijah Yngcong (6th), Dior Manning (7th), Hernezto Jean (8th)

Graduates of Note

• High School Graduates: Students from Norwalk High and Brien McMahon proudly walked across the Carver Center gym floor prepared for their college journeys and future careers.

• College Graduates: Gaelle Louis Charles, Celina Hunter, Nicea Nerette, Mandie Romeus – our college scholarship recipients of years past – returned to share in the celebration and serve as role models for current Carver youth.

THANKS TO OUR AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM LEADERS

• Ms. Martini - Manager of School Based Programs

• Ms. Massucco - Director of School Based Elementary Programs

• Mr. Ramsubhag - Carver Center Education Manager

• Ms. Kingwood - Assistant Program Manager Carver Jr. YDP

• Ms. Baskin - Program Coordinator Norwalk High

• Ms. Vellucci - Program Coordinator Brien McMahon

• Ms. R. Mitchell - Future Readiness Coordinator McMahon

• Ms. Laborde- Future Readiness Coordinator-Norwalk high

• Ms. Wright- Future Readiness Coordinator McMahon

• Mr. Gaddy Future Readiness Coordinator Norwalk high

• Mr. Vaccarro - Program Coordinator Roton M.S.

• Ms. Counts- Program Coordinator Nathan Hale M.S.

• Mr. Giandurco - Program Coordinator Ponus Ridge M.S.

• Mr. Gilmore- Program Coordinator Side by Side Charter School

• Mr. Perry - Program Coordinator West Rocks M.S.

• Ms. Biko-Smith - Program Coordinator Kendall Elementary

• Ms. Watkins - Program Coordinator- Naramake Elementary

• Ms. Preston - Program Coordinator Brookside Elementary

• Ms. Huzina - Program Coordinator Tracey Elementary

• Ms. Signore - Program Coordinator Jefferson Elementary

• Ms. Papszycki-Program Coordinator Silvermine Elementary

• Mr. Guzman-Patino- Marvin Elementary

• Ms. S. Mitchell- Fox Run Elementary

Deep Gratitude to Our Scholarship Supporters

Our heartfelt thanks to all who make these scholarships possible, including the Athena Scholarship Fund, Joseph Scott III Scholarship Committee, the Ziegler Trust, Per and Astrid Heidenreich Family Foundation, the Baudouin Family, the Richard and Barbara Whitcomb Foundation, the Sapienza Scholarship, Serenbetz Family Foundation, and the Grossman Family Foundation.

This event is a declaration of belief in the power of young people. At a time when access to education and opportunity can feel uncertain, Carver’s Testimonial Dinner affirms that our community stands behind every student, ready to invest in their promise.

We congratulate all our scholars and graduates and look forward to seeing the many ways they will shape a better future for us all.

Deloitte Stamford Volunteers Roll Up Their Sleeves for Carver on 2025 Impact Day

Last Friday, June 6, the Carver Community Center came alive with energy, teamwork, and a spirit of service thanks to a phenomenal crew of Deloitte volunteers celebrating their annual Impact Day. Year after year, Deloitte’s Stamford office chooses Carver as one of its community service destinations—and we are so lucky and grateful they do.

Dozens of volunteers, including former Carver board member Jude Alaba and longtime Carver friend Heather Ziegler, brought their enthusiasm and elbow grease to a wide range of much-needed projects that will help launch a joyful, safe, and engaging summer at Carver.

Here’s a glimpse of what was accomplished:

• Gardens and Grounds: Teams got their hands dirty weeding, mulching, planting, and pruning—making our outdoor spaces safer and more beautiful for Carver kids to enjoy throughout the summer.

• Fresh Paint and Polish: Volunteers refreshed one of our classrooms with a new coat of paint, brightening the learning environment for students and teachers.

• Heavy Lifting: From removing outdated furniture and clearing out old desks to organizing storage closets, Deloitte volunteers helped make room for what’s next at Carver.

• Deep Cleaning and Reorganizing: The group tackled dusty corners and cluttered shelves, leaving our spaces cleaner, more efficient, and ready for action.

At lunchtime, Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin thanked Deloitte's team:

“Your energy, your care, and your willingness to show up in this way—it all means more than you know. Your efforts prepare this center to serve our children this summer. We’re deeply grateful for this partnership.”

Deloitte’s commitment to making an impact that matters shines brightly each year through their Impact Day at Carver. Their ongoing support reflects the best of corporate citizenship and makes a real difference in the lives of Norwalk’s youth and families.

Thank you, Deloitte, for continuing to invest your time, your talent, and your heart in Carver and in the community you call home.

You're Invited: Celebrate Community at the Rowayton Carver Connections Party – Thursday, June 12!

Golden Moments on Stage: Carver Scholars Shine in Tracey Magnet’s Magical Production of Willy Wonka Jr.

Hold your breath, make a wish, count to three…

Tracey Magnet School was filled with pure imagination on Thursday, May 29, and Friday, May 30, as students took the stage for a joyful production of Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka Jr.—and Carver’s Scholars were right at the heart of the magic.

Carver students participating in the Scholars program at Tracey Magnet School brought the beloved characters of Charlie Bucket, Willy Wonka, and the unforgettable Oompa Loompas to life with color, confidence, and creativity. The school gymnasium transformed into a whimsical chocolate factory where families, friends, and teachers gathered to witness the students' talents—and the result was two evenings of pure delight. A special shoutout goes to Shannon Huzina, Carver’s Scholars Lead Program Coordinator at Tracey, whose dedication, encouragement, and leadership helped guide our students to the spotlight.

The Carver Scholars program, made possible by 21st Century Community Learning Center grants, provides after-school academic enrichment and creative opportunities to students across Norwalk elementary schools. Events like this musical production showcase just how powerful these programs can be—not only boosting academic achievement but nurturing imagination, self-expression, and teamwork.

Congratulations to the entire cast and crew of Willy Wonka Jr., and a standing ovation to our Carver Scholars for their hard work and incredible performances. You reminded us all that with a bit of imagination, anything is possible.

A Night to Remember: Carver’s Child of America Gala Celebrates Community, Raises Crucial Summer Funding

The Carver Child of America Gala, held Friday evening, May 30, at the beautiful Shorehaven Golf Club, was a heartfelt celebration of purpose, people, and possibility. As our largest annual fundraising event, this year’s gala exceeded expectations, from the inspiring stories shared to the generous outpouring of support for Carver’s mission.

This post primarily features photo highlights from the reception, where guests gathered under perfect skies, reunited with friends, and welcomed new faces to the Carver family. More photos from the evening portion of the gala will follow in a subsequent blog post.

The vibrant energy of the evening was elevated by Berdine and her band, Soul Nasty, whose soulful performance set the perfect tone for celebration. The sense of fellowship was unmistakable as the Carver community came together with one goal: to invest in brighter futures for our students.

Following the reception, guests were moved by an unforgettable program that began with Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin delivering a heartfelt address that brought the gala theme, "Deep Roots, Strong Futures," to life.

Tracing Carver’s legacy from its founding in 1938 to its steadfast presence in today’s uncertain times, Novelette described Carver not as a shelter from hardship but as a lighthouse guiding youth through it. With eloquence and conviction, Novelette reminded the audience that Carver has always met moments of challenge with resilience and purpose. “We were forged in adversity,” she said, urging the audience to recommit to the mission of equity, opportunity, and belief in the limitless potential of young people, inviting all present to join in building a future that every child deserves.

Another meaningful moment of the evening came when Carver alumna Jasmine Brown walked to the podium. Jasmine’s journey embodies the very spirit of this year’s theme: Deep Roots, Strong Futures. Her story is one Carver has been proud to witness—from college tours to graduations, and now as a compassionate leader, successful business owner, and fierce advocate for others. Today, Jasmine owns and operates a mental health agency in Virginia, delivering life-changing services to adults in need. She holds two master’s degrees, a bachelor’s from Virginia State University, and the deep respect of everyone who knows her. Jasmine is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when young people are given the support, love, and opportunity to thrive.

Marcus Shaw, our 2025 Child of America honoree, inspired everyone with his vision for education and equity. The Paddle Raise Mission Moment was a triumph, securing critical funds for Carver’s 2025 summer programs. And the celebration continued on the dance floor well into the night.

A very special thank-you to our Gala Chair, Jillian Kaminski, and the extraordinary Gala Committee for creating such a magical evening:

Gala Committee
Alexandra Baudouin, Megan and Paul Hudson, Virginia and Larry Pokora, Jennifer and Andrew Ryan, Drew and Kim Seath, Brooke and Adam Sorensen, Robert and Caroline Stockton, Amy and Robert Strickland.

We are deeply grateful to our generous sponsors, whose support makes Carver’s work possible:

Presenting Sponsors
We are deeply grateful to our Presenting Sponsors: Dalio Philanthropies and The Richard & Barbara Whitcomb Foundation. Their leadership and generosity are the foundation of this event’s success and Carver’s year-round impact.

Innovation Sponsors
Our Innovation Sponsors are changemakers who propel Carver’s mission forward through their bold support: Akin, The Baudouin Family, BlackRock, Deborah and Michael Brennan, Phil and Ros Butterfield, Centennial Bank, and Sound Control Technologies. We thank each of them for their commitment to innovation and the opportunities they provide for Carver youth.

Inspire Sponsors
We celebrate our Inspire Sponsors for their heartfelt investment in Carver’s work: Wendy and Richard Baskin, Jasmine Brown, Joan Byrne, Kay Garrett, Megan and Paul Hudson, Inwha Huh and Robert Kim, Jennifer and Andrew Ryan, Drew and Kim Seath, Brooke and Adam Sorensen, and Amy and Rob Strickland. Their belief in the power of education and community inspires us all.

Advocate Sponsors
Our Advocate Sponsors—Norwalk Hospital, Patriot Bank, and Melissa Ziegler—stand with Carver in championing equity and excellence. We thank them for their advocacy and support.

To everyone who joined us, thank you. Your presence, your gifts, and your belief in our students help Carver continue to grow deep roots and build strong futures.

See all the photos on the Facebook Alum here. Scroll down to view a gallery of reception photos capturing the joy and generosity of the evening.

Tonight’s the Night! Carver’s Child of America Gala Celebrates Deep Roots and Strong Futures

You're Invited: Celebrate Community at the Rowayton Carver Connections Party – Thursday, June 12!