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!