On November 14, 2014, Naugatuck Valley Community College (NVCC) inducted ten new students and two returning students into the prestigious President’s Circle.  Membership represents the highest honor a student may receive while matriculating at the College. These students have a minimum GPA of 3.4 and they represent a select group of outstanding achievers who serve as the College’s Student Ambassadors. President's Circle Ambassadors have the opportunity to attend major college events with the President and/or her Cabinet, and lend voice to their experiences as NVCC students. They are given platforms to directly engage with community leaders, officials, alumni, and friends. Overall, membership enables these students to make connections, build networks, and further their roles as active citizens and leaders.

In opening remarks, NVCC President, Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Ph.D., encouraged students to welcome new opportunities and envision themselves in different roles. She added, “The essence of life is change and it is through education that we make changes for the better.”  She applauded their diligent work, scholarly achievements and commitment to community. She inspired them to remain steadfast in their pursuit of their academic goals.

NVCC Professor Steven J. Parlato delivered the keynote address and spoke of the visual and symbolic nature of the circle and equated its symmetrical shape with feelings of completion, strength, and unity. “It is these attributes that make the circle an ideal choice to represent Naugatuck Valley’s scholarly elite,” Parlato commented. Circle membership is not based solely on academic achievement. Candidates must also demonstrate strength of character, resilience to challenges, and a commitment to the community and NVCC. Parlato added, “We express our pride and admiration for your achievements, yes, as students, but also as exceptional people, and we charge you to continue to represent all that is best and brightest at NVCC.”

Applications are accepted in the spring for high-achieving students wishing to serve as ambassadors for Naugatuck Valley Community College. Applications will be available online in early spring.