"I'm pleased to say we are growing and becoming a more visible presence in the community," said Martha Bernstein, Chair of NVCC's Foundation. "It's very gratifying to see people who work so hard to give the students the education that they very well deserve," she continued, as she addressed faculty and staff at the College. I learn every day out in the community how many community leaders have been educated at this institution. It's really an important part of what goes on in this part of Connecticut."

"It is good to take time to celebrate being part of communities of purpose, dedicated to change the future of Connecticut by providing access and quality to our most vulnerable populations in the form of scholarships, support for our food pantry, jobs on campus, support of multiple cultural activities on campus and so much more," said President De Filippis.

Participants heard from Marlon Bramwell, a Computer Information Systems student at NVCC. Thanks to the generosity of donors, Bramwell holds a part-time position in the IT Department as part of the College's Jobs on Campus Program. The skills he is learning on the job, he said, are valuable and will help him launch his career upon graduation.

With a 49-year history of supporting the college's strategic initiatives through fundraising and community outreach, the NVCC Foundation supports the needs of the college through facilitating student scholarships, capital improvements, college programs, and student emergencies. The financial needs of the college cannot be met through tuition and state support alone; NVCC works with the community and businesses to ensure its students have an opportunity to succeed in today's workforce. To donate or become involved, visit: nv.edu/foundation.