Journey to the Past and Future: Brien McMahon Senators Explore Virginia Union's Rich History and the Possibilities for their Futures

By Jason Giorlando and Amir Andre, 11th graders at Brien McMahon High School 

After an exciting morning at Virginia State University, we traveled to Richmond, Virginia, to tour Virginia Union University (VUU).

We learned the day before our visit that Richard “Ricky” Fuller, a Carver alum and Virginia Union alumnus, had just passed away. He was a coach for Ms. Shannon Bates, one of our chaperones on this year’s college tour. Ricky’s father, the late Richard Fuller Sr., former executive director of Carver, was also an alumnus of VUU. Former Carver student and CT State Representative representing Norwalk, Kadeem Roberts, is also an alumnus.

When we arrived on the campus, we had a surprise visit from Carver alumnae Arianna Prezzie. Arianna was introduced to VUU while on a Carver college tour years ago. She lives and works as a teacher in Virginia and is pursuing a master’s degree at VUU. Arianna joined our group as we learned more about VUU.

VUU is a private Historically Black Baptist University (HBCU) established in 1865 to provide education to newly freed slaves of the South. The campus is home to more than 2000 undergraduate students from various backgrounds. There is a 20:1 student-to-teacher ratio, and 52% of students are female and 48% male. The average class size is 25 students, and students can access 50+ clubs and organizations. 

Virginia Union University offers degrees of Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Fine Arts, or Bachelor of Social Work.  Student-athletes compete in Division 11 (Panthers) basketball, cross country, football, golf, track and field, bowling, tennis, volleyball, softball, and cheerleading. Iyanla Vanzant.

Notable alumni include (as noted above) State Rep. Kadeem Roberts, Charles Oakley, L. Douglas Wilder, Ben Wallace, and Donda West.

Virginia Union is a respected small university with a rich history and diverse community. It gives hope and opportunity to average students, who may require increased support to graduate.

Insider Scoop: Carver students Share Highlights from Old Dominion University Visit

By Zoe Pierre Louis and Jada Profit, 10th graders at Norwalk High School

We arrived at the pristine Old Dominion University campus, nestled on 337 acres of land, of which the main campus covers 250 acres.  The modern and historic buildings provided the welcoming feeling we were not expecting.  Our tour guide, Noah, greeted us and was determined to give us a meaningful experience.

Old Dominion University is a public Research Institution located in Norfolk, Virginia. It was established in 1930 as an extension of the College of William and Mary.

This is the third school we visited on the tour, and it is the most diverse. Last year, more than 23,000 students enrolled, including more than 18,500 undergraduates, 600 international students, and nearly 5,000 graduate students from 99 countries.

Old Dominion University research teams generate $88 million in annual funding through more than 400 ongoing projects supported by grants from the National Science Foundation, the National Institute of Health, the Department of Energy, and the Department of Defense.

The ODU Monarchs is a NCAA Division 1 university offering basketball, baseball, swimming, football, golf, sailing, soccer, tennis, lacrosse, rowing, field hockey, and volleyball. Sports is a huge part of campus life, and students show pride in ODU.

Old Dominion has a substantial endowment that will ensure that the university stays financially healthy in the future. We felt this was a predominantly white institution even though the Divine Nine (Black sororities and fraternities) are represented on campus.

Norfolk is a port city, and the region has one of the largest concentrations of armed forces in the United States. Military members can access the school resources of 175 undergraduate and graduate programs from seven colleges and three schools through online classes. Students on campus have access to over 300 student organizations.

We felt that ODU provided a wonderful representation of a large school. Its open campus made us feel comfortable navigating our way, and many of us marked ODU as a school to pursue.  

Carver Collegiate Explorers: Discovering Norfolk State on the 52nd Annual Spring College Tour

By Arianna Nembhard, 10th grader, and Kimorra Cuadrado, 11th grader, at Norwalk High School

When we arrived on Norfolk State University's campus, we were greeted by student ambassador Omarion. He captured our attention with enthusiasm and knowledge.

Norfolk State University (NSU) is a vibrant and diverse institution in Norfolk, Virginia. With a commitment to academic excellence, NSU offers students a wide range of programs and opportunities. From its lively campus to its dedicated faculty, NSU provides a supportive and inclusive environment where students can thrive and pursue their passions. Whether you're interested in business, health sciences, nursing, their number one majors, or the arts, Norfolk State University has something for everyone.

At Norfolk State University, students are not only given the tools to succeed academically but also the chance to grow personally and professionally. Students are given a pair of AirPods and an iPad to help them during their academic journey. Students can purchase these devices after graduation.

NSU Spartans compete in the Division 1 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. In Baseball, Basketball, Cross County, Track and Field, Tennis, Bowling, Softball  and Volleyball

NSU is a top 20 Historically Black College/University with a student body of nearly 6,000. Undergraduate tuition and fees are $11,086 after financial aid and an average of $4,300 for room and board.  We were interested in the acceptance rate, which is 89%, and the graduation rate is 41%. This graduation rate is lower than we expected and signals that if you enroll at NSU, you must be laser-focused on your academics and find a life balance in order to succeed. Taking advantage of all the resources offered is integral to your academic journey.

With its strong emphasis on community engagement and service, NSU encourages students to impact the world around them positively. From research opportunities to internships, NSU provides students with hands-on experiences that prepare them for their future careers.

With its vibrant campus life and numerous student organizations, Norfolk State University offers a well-rounded college experience that fosters growth, leadership, and lifelong friendships. If you decide to join the NSU community, you'll find endless opportunities for personal and academic growth and success.

Carver Mourns Loss of Richard "Ricky" Fuller Jr., Beloved Coach and Youth Advocate

The Carver community is deeply saddened by the loss of Richard "Ricky" Fuller Jr., a dedicated advocate for Carver youth and a champion of higher education.

Following in his father's footsteps, Richard Fuller Sr., who served Norwalk's youth as a teacher, Board of Education member, and longtime executive director of The Carver, Ricky was a constant presence in the Carver community, especially as a basketball coach and mentor.

Just yesterday, Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin and the 27 students on Carver's 52nd Spring College Tour visited Virginia Union University. VUU, a premier Historically Black College and University (HBCU), is the alma mater of many Carver family members, including Richard Fuller Sr., Ricky Fuller, and former Carver student and CT State Representative Kadeem Roberts. VUU's motto of "offering the promise of a limitless future" resonated with Ricky, who instilled that belief in countless Carver students.

Ricky Fuller had been the Norwalk High School’s Bears' head coach for 15 years before stepping down following a 2018-19 season in which they were 28-0. Before that, he was a long-time assistant to Fred English, with whom he won three straight FCIAC titles from 1999-2001 and a state title during an unbeaten season in 2000. 

As a beloved basketball coach and English teacher at Norwalk High, surely one of Ricky's most memorable moments came in 2019 when he coached the Norwalk High School girls' basketball team to the thrilling state championship win at Mohegan Sun. Under Ricky's guidance and the off-season coaching of Carver's Recreation Coordinator Shannon Singleton-Bates, the Lady Bears gave their all on the court – a testament to Ricky's unwavering dedication throughout his exemplary life. In this final, Norwalk trailed by 11 points after three quarters but rallied with a 19-6 fourth quarter to make history. Naeva Rene scored the game-winning basket on a lay-up with two seconds remaining, and the Bears took the title 55-53.

The Fuller family's ties to the Carver community span decades, and Ricky's loss is deeply felt. His impact on Norwalk's youth, both on and off the court, will forever be cherished. During this challenging time, the Carver community extends its heartfelt condolences to Ricky's family and loved ones. We wish you peace and healing as we join you in grieving our profound loss.

Funeral Arrangements: Tuesday, April 23, at Grace Baptist Church, 17 West Avenue, Norwalk, CT. Wake from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Funeral at 12:30 p.m.

Journey to Success: Carver Scholars Embark on 52nd Carver Spring College Tour at Historic Hampton U

By Rodelin Constant and Derrick Wiggins - 11th graders at Brien McMahon High School

Our 52nd Annual College tour began at Hampton University, located in Hampton, Virginia. Hampton is a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) built on a peninsula with stunning views and a calming atmosphere. We were greeted by our enthusiastic tour guides, Nia and Casey, who are both majoring in pre-law. Nia is from Patterson, New Jersey, and Casey is from Los Angeles, California.

We learned that Hampton University has a student population of about 3,000 and a female-to-male ratio of 12:1. Hampton University is a prestigious institution that draws students from all over the world.  They proudly display flags representing different countries. The most popular major at Hampton is Nursing, and their special program requires students to wear scrubs on specific days of the week.  

Hampton is a school primarily centered around academics and the average GPA for admitted students is 3.4. Currently, SAT score is optional, but to get better scholarships and more money for your tuition, send as many transcripts as possible. Financial aid at Hampton is pretty good, but you have to make an effort to advocate for yourself.

Class sizes are small, and if you put in the effort, you can advocate for yourself and build relationships with your teachers. Freshman students live in communal dorms, while upperclassmen and those with 60 credits or more live in apartment-style dorms. We loved the apartment-style dorms because of how grown-up they made us feel. Living in your apartment with friends and getting an education is a beautiful experience.

We also learned that Greek life (Sororities and fraternities) drives social life on campus. HBCUs are known for the Divine Nine. The Divine Nine has nine sororities and fraternities (Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc., Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity inc., Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., and Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.)  Pledging is iconic and something we want to do in the future. We learned that fraternity and sorority dues can be as high as $4,000, and you must be a sophomore higher to pledge.

The school is its own city, so social life outside of campus is nonexistent. Most students are focused on their studies and enjoy a heavily secured and gated campus. We met Mr. East, who took pride in keeping everyone safe.

Our experience at Hampton University was a beautiful one, the campus is gorgeous, and the school has many historical landmarks like the Emancipation Oak (a tree that signaled to slaves that they were free), their bench of statues, Deans Mansion, Museum, historic cemetery and distinguished alumni including Booker T. Washington. The Trustee House hosted such dignitaries as Martin Luther King and Barack Obama. The Hampton Clock is one of the longest-working clocks.

We admire their serious approach to education, and their culture is unique compared to a predominantly white institution.

Thank you, Carver and YDP, for this impactful experience.

Empowering Dreams: Carver's Spring College Tour 2024 Sets Off on an Odyssey of Discovery

Early yesterday, excitement filled the air at the Carver Community Center as 27 eager students, alongside their chaperones including Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin, boarded a chartered bus, marking the beginning of the 52nd annual Carver Spring College Tour.!

This week-long journey promises to be transformative. It offers a carefully curated exploration of academic excellence, cultural enrichment, and personal growth. Each day, the students will share their written reflections on each visited college on this blog.

These students will traverse multiple states, visiting prestigious colleges and universities. The itinerary reads like a roadmap to opportunity from Hampton College to Norfolk State University, from Georgetown University to Howard University. Each stop will expose the students to esteemed institutions and provide them with invaluable insights from school administrators, admissions officers, and successful Carver alumni attending those schools.

But this journey isn't just about campuses and classrooms. Along the way, the students will have unforgettable experiences, including a visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. They will immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of African American history and culture, gaining a deeper understanding of their heritage and identity.

And let's not forget the thrilling break awaiting them at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey, promising adrenaline-pumping fun amidst their academic explorations.

The Carver Spring College Tour is more than just a field trip; it's a testament to Carver's unwavering commitment to empowering young minds. It's about fostering a lifelong love for learning and providing students with the tools to succeed in academia and beyond.

As these students embark on this transformative odyssey, they will forge connections, gain invaluable insights, and return home with renewed determination and a clearer vision of their academic and personal aspirations. The journey has just begun, but its impact on these young minds will last a lifetime.

Stay tuned as we follow their adventures and discoveries throughout the week!

Rowayton Connections: A Coastal Celebration of Community and Generosity

L-R: Andrew Ryan, Hannah Robertson, Will Robertson, Rob Strickland, Julia Massengill, Margie Shaughnessy, Jim Shaughnessy

Last evening, Carver's "Connections" house party unfolded with camaraderie and generosity. Held at the spacious, stunning home of Margie and Jim Shaughnessy, overlooking the Sound, the event was a resounding success, thanks to the support of over 100 generous guests who gathered to champion Carver's afterschool, summer, and community programs.

Gratitude filled the air as Carver extended heartfelt appreciation to all attendees, including Connecticut Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas, recognizing the profound impact of their advocacy and support.

Among those who made the evening possible were Co-Chairs Julia Massengill and Rob Strickland, alongside the dedicated members of the Connections Committee: Emily and Mike Anderson, Liz Beinfield, Kay and Jay Garrett, Emily and Rob Grabowski, Megan and Paul Hudson, Martha and Andy Meyerson, Allie and David Pontius, Hannah and Will Robertson, Jen and Andrew Ryan, and Kim and Drew Seath.

For years, Carver has been blessed with hosts who graciously open their magnificent homes, creating spaces for donors eager to foster fellowship and learn about Carver's remarkable impact. Against the backdrop of the Long Island Sound's scenic vistas, guests were treated to an evening that celebrated philanthropy and the essence of Rowayton's coastal charm.

Distinguished speakers, including State Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff; Carver alumni Diaghilev Lubin-Farnell (Carver board member and Connecticut Assistant Attorney General), and Trinity McFadden; Carver board member Robert Pennington, Assistant Superintendent of Schools, Norwalk Public Schools; and Carver board president Phil Butterfield, added depth to the evening's festivities. Their voices echoed the significance of Carver's mission and its transformative power for Norwalk youth.

Emily Anderson, Alli Murphy, Laura Sheehy, Kristen Jordan, Hannah and Will Robertson

Carver students, exemplified by remarkable individuals like Diaghilev and Trinity, embody the ethos of resilience, determination, and gratitude fostered by Carver's support system. As evidenced by the inspiring stories they shared at the party, these young women illuminate the transformative impact of Carver's guidance from adolescence to adulthood. Trinity's decision to forego Ivy League institutions (which she was qualified to attend) in favor of RIT resonates with her commitment to community and support, particularly as a member of the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Her choice reflects a profound understanding of the importance of finding a supportive environment like The National Technical Institute for the Deaf, where she could thrive. Trinity's international experiences, such as studying abroad in Russia and, more recently, in Dubai, underscore her adventurous spirit and commitment to lifelong learning. Her story is a testament to the power of educational support systems in empowering individuals to pursue their dreams and make meaningful contributions to society.

This year’s Rowayton Connections party encapsulated the timeless appreciation of what truly matters: friendship, community, and the spirit of giving. In its picturesque waterfront setting and village character, the event epitomized the cherished essence of a classic coastal New England town—a testament to the enduring legacy of generosity and goodwill.

Carver Community Center Breaks Ground on Transformative Two-Story Teen Center

L-R: Norwalk Council Member At-Large Greg Burnett, Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin, Mayor Harry Rilling, CT Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas, Carver board president Phil Butterfield, and Carol Bauer

Read The Hour (Hearst) article here, which covers this event.

Yesterday morning, we celebrated a groundbreaking milestone for our new two-story Teen Center. The April 10th ceremony was filled with excitement and gratitude as community leaders, donors, volunteers, and Carver supporters gathered to commemorate this important step.

Carol Bauer and Norwalk Council Member At-Large Greg Burnett

Carver extended heartfelt thanks to the State of Connecticut, Carol and George Bauer, and Dalio Philanthropies for their generous leadership investments, which made the project possible. Speakers, including Carol Bauer, Mayor Harry Rilling, Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas, Carver Board President Phil Butterfield, and Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin, expressed their appreciation for this future resource for Norwalk youth.

"The new Teen Center will be a safe, enriching space for our city's teenagers to learn, grow, and thrive through educational, recreational, and social programs," said Peterkin. "This is a testament to Carver's unwavering commitment to empowering the next generation."

L-R Carver board president Phil Butterfield, Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin, and former Carver board member and now NPS Deputy Superintendent Sandra Faioes

The two-story addition will connect to the existing Carver Community Center via interior glass walls overlooking the Richard Whitcomb Gymnasium. It symbolizes a physical space and a beacon of hope and opportunity for Norwalk's teenagers. With its comprehensive facilities and resources, the Teen Center will serve as a hub for educational, recreational, and social activities, nurturing holistic youth development and strengthening community bonds.

Moreover, the Teen Center represents one facet of the larger planned renovation of the Carver Community Center, signifying a broader commitment to holistic community revitalization. Through initiatives like this, Carver continues to exemplify its mission of providing a safe, inclusive, and enriching environment where youth can learn, grow, and thrive.

As shovels hit the dirt, the spirit of progress and community partnership filled the air. The Teen Center groundbreaking marks an exciting new chapter for Carver and the young people it serves.

After the Bell at Carver: Enriching Rowayton's Young Minds

The final bell rings, but the learning doesn't stop at Rowayton Elementary—it's just getting started with Carver's After the Bell program.

This innovative before- and after-school offering provides young scholars with an engaging, enriching experience that seamlessly aligns with their in-school curricula.

After the Bell embraces a Project-Based Learning approach infused with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) subjects, students don't just absorb information; they apply it through imaginative, collaborative projects that let their creativity shine.

The projects bring the lessons to life.

After the Bell goes beyond academics, weaving Social-Emotional Learning, wellness, and a Multi-Tiered System of Support into every activity.

A "learning through play" model provides students with valuable skills like problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.

After the Bell prepares students for success both in and out of the classroom.

With enthusiastic parent and community engagement fueling our efforts, After the Bell offers an environment where young minds can grow, explore, and thrive.

Marvin Elementary's Youngest Stargazers Dazzled by Celestial Dance

The schoolyard at Marvin Elementary School was an observatory today as students from the Carver's before- and after-school program gathered to witness a breathtaking astronomical event - a partial solar eclipse visible over Connecticut.

Outfitted with protective NASA-approved eclipse glasses, the young stargazers watched in awe as the moon slowly slipped across the sun's face, obscuring over 90% of its brilliant light and fiery surface. The strange dimming of daylight and the eerie crescent sun cast the playground in unusual shadows, igniting a sense of wonder and excitement among the children.

When the partial solar eclipse reached its maximum, the moon covered approximately 92% of the sun when viewed from Connecticut. The students cheered as the moon and sun commenced their slow "dance," their perfectly aligned orbit creating patterns of light and shadow.

For these children, it was their first time viewing an eclipse - a relatively rare event they may not witness again until 2027 when the next solar eclipse graces Connecticut skies.

Events like this spark curiosity about science. The look of amazement on their faces was truly priceless. We're cultivating the next generation of astronomers here today!

As the eclipse reached its maximum, the students erupted into applause; their eyes still trained skyward even as the sun and moon began their departure from perfect alignment. A celestial dance convened, and these youngest stargazers had front-row seats to nature's astronomical ballet.