Dr. Damon Lewis Named National Finalist for 2025–26 NASSP Middle Level Principal of the Year
Carver is thrilled to celebrate Dr. Damon Lewis, principal of Norwalk’s Ponus Ridge STEAM Academy, for being named one of just three national finalists for the 2025–26 NASSP Middle Level Principal of the Year—one of the most prestigious honors a middle school leader can receive in the United States.
A visionary educator and longtime champion of Carver’s afterschool and summer transition programs, Dr. Lewis has consistently gone above and beyond to ensure Ponus Ridge students are prepared academically and nurtured socially and emotionally. His leadership has fostered a strong partnership between Carver and Ponus Ridge, providing students with year-round enrichment, mentorship, and pathways to lifelong success.
The NASSP Middle Level Principal of the Year recognition, awarded by the National Association of Secondary School Principals, honors school leaders who demonstrate exceptional commitment to student achievement, innovation in education, and creating inclusive, empowering school cultures. Each year, state-level honorees are reviewed by a panel of education leaders, and only three middle school principals nationwide are selected as finalists.
The winner will be announced this July during a national gala celebration, but for us, Dr. Lewis is already a shining example of what leadership can and should look like in education.
We are proud to join the entire Ponus Ridge community in cheering on Dr. Lewis—not only for this well-deserved recognition but also for the deep and lasting impact he continues to make on the lives of his students and the broader Norwalk community.
Congratulations, Dr. Lewis! Your dedication, excellence, and partnership mean the world to Carver—and even more to the children and families you serve daily.
Carver’s Outdoor Basketball Court Gets a Fresh Start Just in Time for Summer
The rhythm of summer is returning to the Carver Community Center, and this year it’s arriving with a brand-new bounce.
This week, Hinding Tennis is on-site to begin renovations on Carver’s beloved outdoor basketball court. Crews will be hard at work repairing the asphalt surface, with the final phase of the project—including line filling and painting—scheduled for completion by June 27. These upgrades ensure the court will be ready and safe for Carver’s summer programs, offering Norwalk youth a vibrant space to play, grow, and compete.
The basketball court renovation is part of Carver’s broader investment in its community hub. These improvements follow closely behind the construction of Carver’s striking new two-story Teen Center, now attached to the gymnasium. This center further expands Carver’s capacity to meet the needs and aspirations of Norwalk’s youth.
With summer just around the corner, the renewed outdoor court will once again echo with the sound of sneakers, laughter, and teamwork, reminding us all of what’s possible when community, opportunity, and vision come together.
Stay tuned for more updates as we count down to completion—and tip-off!
Carver Joins the City in Celebrating the 2025 Norwalk Citywide Student Art Show at The Norwalk Art Space
Carver is proud to join The Norwalk Art Space and Norwalk Public Schools in celebrating the 2025 Norwalk Citywide Student Art Show—an inspiring exhibition that showcases the creativity and talent of student artists from every school across the city, grades K through 12.
The exhibit opens with a public reception tomorrow, Wednesday, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at The Norwalk Art Space, just steps from the Carver Community Center at 455 West Avenue. The show will remain on display through June 5 during regular gallery hours: Wednesday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and weekends from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Carver has been a proud partner of The Norwalk Art Space since its founding, regularly connecting our youth with its dynamic exhibits, public programs, and artist residencies. Many Carver students and families have participated in free classes, workshops, and community events hosted by The Norwalk Art Space—experiences that spark imagination, build confidence, and deepen appreciation for the arts.
We invite the entire Carver community to visit this year’s Citywide Student Art Show and experience the incredible work of Norwalk’s young artists. The show celebrates expression, education, and the vibrant partnership that continues to grow between Carver, Norwalk Public Schools, and The Norwalk Art Space.
Parking Information: Free parking is available across the street at 370 West Avenue and at Mathews Park, 295 West Avenue.
Let’s come together to celebrate the talent and vision of Norwalk’s next generation of artists!
Carver’s John Akbar Places 3rd in Medical Math at State HOSA Conference: A Rising Leader in STEM
Carver student John Akbar standing with his proud mother at the C arver Annual Meeting in November 2024
Carver proudly congratulates John Akbar, a standout Carver student and intern, a Brien McMahon High School junior, on placing third in Medical Math at the Connecticut HOSA – Future Health Professionals State Leadership Conference. This outstanding achievement highlights John’s growing expertise and confidence in one of the most challenging areas of health science education.
The Medical Math competition tests students on the real-world application of mathematical principles in healthcare. Participants must demonstrate accuracy and fluency with measurement conversions, drug dosages, IV solutions, dilutions, and concentrations, as well as the interpretation of charts, graphs, and statistics. It’s a rigorous exam designed to prepare students for the demands of the medical field, and John rose to the challenge with distinction.
John’s success in Medical Math is just the latest chapter in his inspiring Carver story.
Over the past year, Carver has shared John’s many accomplishments and thoughtful reflections. Last April, he joined the Carver Spring College Tour, exploring many schools and sharing his account of visiting HBCU Shaw University in Raleigh, North Carolina. That experience, like so many others at Carver, fueled his vision for the future.
In November, John gave a heartfelt speech at Carver’s Annual Meeting, addressing a room filled with distinguished guests including Senator Bob Duff, Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas, and Norwalk Common Council President Darlene Young. His words captured the essence of his journey:
“Carver has transformed me from a timid, unsure freshman into someone confident and driven. It’s been a journey of self-discovery filled with challenges, growth, and new passions. As I continue forward, I’m eager to keep learning, exploring, and making the most of every opportunity. Thank you to the Carver community for showing me that with support and courage, anything is possible.”
Just last week, John also inspired guests at the Norwalk Connections Party, hosted by Jody and David Neaderland. Alongside his peers, he spoke eloquently about his Carver experience and future goals, leaving a strong impression on all in attendance.
John’s journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when students are given support, opportunity, and the freedom to discover their own potential. His third-place win in Medical Math reflects not only his academic dedication but also the confidence and skills he has developed through his Carver experience.
We can’t wait to see what’s next for John—and we’ll be there to cheer him on every step of the way.
Congratulations, John! Your Carver family is proud of you.
From Carver Intern to National Competitor: Joelle “Luciel” Balan Heads to HOSA International Leadership Conference in Nashville
Carver is proud to celebrate the incredible achievements of Joelle “Luciel” Balan, a Brien McMahon High School senior, Carver intern, and aspiring forensic scientist, who will represent Connecticut at the 2025 HOSA International Leadership Conference (ILC) in Nashville, Tennessee, this June.
Luciel earned her place at this prestigious event by winning first place in the Medical Reading event at the State Leadership Conference on March 2. The ILC, taking place from June 18–21 at the Gaylord Opryland Convention Center, brings together thousands of top student leaders from around the world for a one-of-a-kind experience featuring competitions, seminars, networking, and career development in the health sciences.
Luciel’s journey to the ILC has been nothing short of inspiring. As part of Carver’s Norwalk Hospital internship program, Luciel gained hands-on exposure to careers in healthcare—an experience that deepened her passion for forensic science. Her growth continued as a paid Carver intern and tutor at Jefferson Magnet School, where she has become a role model to younger students and a beloved mentor among her peers.
In her own words, Luciel credits Carver with helping her uncover dreams she never thought possible:
“I wouldn’t have gotten as far as I have without Carver. Their Career Readiness has helped me the most for my future… I would have never made resumes, cover letters, elevator pitches, or a LinkedIn profile because I would have never had someone guide me… I’ve realized that I wish to do even more than just the medical field. I learned to branch out from my dreams since I was young and make new ones that I can strive for.”
The Medical Reading competition, which Luciel will compete in at the ILC, challenges students to demonstrate a deep understanding of selected medical and leadership books through a rigorous written exam and essay. This competitive event is just one way HOSA empowers students like Luciel to showcase their knowledge and leadership potential on a global stage.
Luciel’s story is a powerful testament to the impact of Carver’s academic, professional, and personal year-round support. From career exposure to character development, Carver programs are designed to equip students like Luciel with the tools they need to dream bigger and achieve more.
We are incredibly proud of Luciel and look forward to cheering her on as she competes with the nation’s best in Nashville. Congratulations, Luciel—your Carver family is behind you all the way!
An Evening of Inspiration and Connection: Norwalk Comes Together for Carver at the Neaderlands’ Home
L-R: Rich VanSteen, Co-Chair and host David Neaderland, Paul Bartilucci, Mark Kaufman, Shelley Lepetich
L-R: Sarah Waters standing with Co-Chair and host Jody Neaderland
Last night, Carver was honored to be the guest of Jody and David Neaderland, who generously opened their beautiful home for the Norwalk Connections Party—a festive and inspiring evening supporting Carver students and programs.
The gathering brought together a dynamic mix of community leaders, longtime Carver champions, and emerging young voices. Carver’s leadership was in attendance, along with ten high school students who represent the heart and promise of Carver’s mission.
Three Carver students delivered remarks that moved our guests and reminded everyone of what’s at stake—and what’s possible—when young people are believed in and supported:
L-R: Maura Callahan Johnson, Susan Weinberger, Jackie Roberson, Peter Johnson
Nick Sainthyle, a 10th grader at Brien McMahon High School and a soccer team member, shared his passion for fashion design and modeling. Thanks to the connections made at the event, Nick was invited by a guest—an executive at American Eagle—to meet with their design team.
Shiloh Williams, a senior at the Center for Global Studies at Brien McMahon, will attend the University of Rochester this fall to study medicine with a focus on neurology, a passion sparked during her Carver paid internship at Norwalk Hospital’s radiology department.
John Akbar, a junior at McMahon, impressed the entire gathering with his poise and eloquence. He’s pursuing biomedical engineering and is considering in-state colleges to stay close to family and manage costs.
Nick and John also attended Carver’s most recent Spring College Tour, an experience that continues to shape their aspirations and paths forward.
Special thanks go to Norwalk Connections Committee Co-Chairs Jody and David Neaderland, and to committee members Michele Casey, Marian Pierce, Joanne Van Steen, and Dr. Susan G. Weinberger, for making the evening a warm and welcoming celebration.
Guests enjoyed delectable bites by Catering from the Hart, conversations that sparked new ideas and friendships, and powerful reminders of why Carver matters more than ever.
Together, we're building futures—and connections!
Alan Flores, John Akbar, CEO Novelette Peterkin, Jackie Roberson, Shiloh Williams
Join us to celebrate Carver's deep roots, and the strong futures we'll build together for kids throughout our community. There's still time to become a sponsor by purchasing a table!
Carver’s “Chicken Tenders” Hatch a Love for Learning at Kendall Elementary
Kaetlyn Billowitz, a 5th-grade Carver Scholar at Kendall Elementary, gently cradles one of the newly hatched chicks she helped care for as part of Carver’s hands-on science project. “They were so soft and warm,” she said. “Sometimes, they chirped like they were saying thank you!”
This spring, Carver’s Scholars program at Kendall Elementary School brought science to life—literally! Thanks to Keisha Smith Biko, a beloved elementary teacher and Carver after-school program coordinator, a group of curious and compassionate 5th graders helped incubate and hatch fertilized chicken eggs right in their classroom.
Ms. Biko, who also teaches coding and engineering during the school day, affectionately calls her after-school students the “Chicken Tenders”—a name that reflects both their care for the chicks and their growing sense of responsibility. These students have embraced the project wholeheartedly, even using their lunch and recess time to visit the “babies,” feed them, clean their feet, and maintain their brooders.
One student, Kaetlyn Billowitz, shared her reflections on the experience:
“I had the most fantastic time helping out with the baby chicks in our classroom! Every day, I got to feed them and make sure they had fresh water. It was so exciting to watch them grow and see their tiny feathers start to fluff up. My favorite part was holding them gently in my hands; they were so soft and warm. I also had to clean their little area, which was a big responsibility because we needed to keep them healthy and happy. Sometimes, they would chirp loudly, and I think they were trying to say thank you! Taking care of the chicks taught me a lot about responsibility and the importance of being gentle with animals. I also like building a home for the chicks with the blocks in Mrs. Biko’s room. She lets us go on Instagram Live with her and play with the chickens.”
This project exemplifies the heart of Carver’s mission: inspiring young minds through hands-on learning and compassionate mentorship. Through caring for the chicks, these students not only explored science and animal care—they also discovered joy, teamwork, and a sense of wonder that will stay with them long after the chicks are grown.
Labcorp Supports Carver’s Mission with Generous Donation Honoring Black History Month
L-R: Nikki LaFaye, Carver Director of Philanthropy; Olumide Towolawi, Labcorp; Novelette Peterkin, Carver CEO; and Reggie Pierre Louis Jacques, Labcorp
We are excited to share that Carver recently received a generous donation from Labcorp, a global leader in laboratory diagnostics and drug development services, thanks to the efforts of employees Olumide Towolawi and Reggie Pierre Louis Jacques from Labcorp’s Shelton, CT office.
Olumide, Manager of Molecular Oncology and Accessioning, and Reggie, Administrative Specialist, are both active members of Labcorp’s Black Employee Resource Group (ERG) PULSE, Connecticut. PULSE = Promoting Unity Through Legacy, Support, and Empowerment. They visited Carver to personally present the gift, which was raised during their Black History Month initiative in February. Their visit was a meaningful exchange of values and vision, as they took time to learn about Carver’s deep commitment to serving Norwalk’s youth through education, enrichment, and career development programs.
Particularly inspiring to Olumide and Reggie was Carver’s paid internship program with Norwalk Hospital, a prime example of how Carver equips high school students with real-world experience in healthcare and beyond. These internships not only provide hands-on learning but also open doors to future careers in vital industries such as medicine and science—fields where companies like Labcorp play a critical role.
Labcorp, officially known as Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings, is headquartered in Burlington, North Carolina, and operates one of the largest clinical laboratory networks in the world. With operations in approximately 100 countries and a mission to improve health and improve lives, Labcorp’s support for Carver reflects a shared dedication to empowering individuals and communities through opportunity and innovation.
We are deeply grateful for Labcorp’s support and for the leadership shown by Olumide and Reggie. Their commitment to celebrating Black history through action exemplifies the power of corporate partnerships in driving positive change. Their visit reinforced the importance of community collaboration and the value of investing in the next generation.
Thank you, Labcorp, for standing with Carver and believing in the potential of every young person we serve. We look forward to building on this connection and exploring more ways to work together for a brighter, healthier future.