Category: Alumni


Read stories about Neag School of Education alumni.


Women sitting at coffee shop discussing a book.

Using Book Clubs as a Professional Learning Tool

November 12, 2021

In a newly published journal article, Neag School Professor and adult learning expert Robin Grenier examines, with colleagues including Neag School alumna Kristi Kaeppel ’20 Ph.D., the use of book clubs and literature as a tool for enhancing the professional learning of employees across various organizations — from the military to nonprofits to health care. Voluntary, fiction-based book clubs, the researchers say, offer employees a nonformal setting for learning while critically raising consciousness within an organization.




Black sneakers surround word cloud about stopping racism.

#ThisIsAmerica Panel Features Critical Race Theory Discussion

October 28, 2021

This past month, UConn alumni, staff, and students gathered virtually for the #ThisIsAmerica: Critical Race Theory in Schools panel. #ThisIsAmerica, organized by the UConn Foundation with co-sponsors from across the University, is a series that brings together the UConn community to discuss and unpack systematic racism, social justice, and human rights issues. In addition, it spotlights the individuals, organizations, and movements fighting for justice and equity, and against oppression and white supremacy.


With Outcry Over Critical Race Theory, We Hear From CT Educators, Students

October 20, 2021

With a General Election just around the corner, the so-called “sleepy” town of Guilford has made national headlines, gripped by a polarizing debate over what’s being taught in schools. Guilford High School English Chair George Cooksey and Superintendent Paul Freeman explain that while critical race theory is not itself taught in the K-12 environment in Guilford, “dimension” and diversity of source material is still a priority. Plus, a new Black and Latino Studies elective is rolling out in Connecticut high schools next fall, following the first mandate of its kind in the country. A Windsor High School teacher and student who are piloting the course weigh in.


With Outcry Over Critical Race Theory, We Hear From Connecticut Educators and Students

October 19, 2021

With a General Election just around the corner, the so-called “sleepy” town of Guilford has made national headlines, gripped by a polarizing debate over what’s being taught in schools.
Guilford High School English Chair George Cooksey and Superintendent Paul Freeman explain that while critical race theory is not itself taught in the K-12 environment in Guilford, “dimension” and diversity of source material is still a priority. Neag School’s Saran Stewart also served as a panelist, along with Freeman and others.


CEA Teacher Appreciation Day at UConn Homecoming a Win-Win

October 19, 2021

Sponsored by CEA and California Casualty, the second-annual CEA Teacher Appreciation Day at Rentschler Field featured complimentary hot breakfast for CEA members and guests, along with music, a fan photo booth, and games of cornhole, football toss, and ladder golf. Teachers were also treated to dozens of prizes that included CEA and UConn Neag School of Education swag, as well as tickets to concerts and Broadway shows at Waterbury’s Palace Theater, a CEA Member Benefits partner.


Symone James: Elementary School Teacher, Meriden Public Schools

October 18, 2021

Symone James was struggling. At the time, the fifth-grade teacher at Roger Sherman Elementary School in Meriden had a class that she said, “needed a lot of love and patience.” “I fell into a place where I was not sleeping and constantly thinking about work and my students,” she recalled. “At night, I’d lay awake going over anticipated behaviors and situations, and tasks of that day.”


2021 40 Under Forty: Kailee Ostroski

October 15, 2021

Kailee Ostroski is the director of operations at Connecticut Wealth Management LLC. She oversees the day-to-day operations of the firm and ensures all teammates work towards a common purpose. She leads the firm and its employees in setting clear goals that align with CTWM’s strategic vision.