From the President

A letter from President Andrea E. Chapdelaine, Ph.D.

Dear Friends,

Fall has always been my favorite season, and there is no better place to enjoy its beauty than on our stunning arboretum campus. Higher education is facing fierce winter weather but due to the strength of our educational mission, the commitment of our faculty and staff, and the generous support of our alumni and benefactors, Conn will blossom with new growth to nurture generations of future Camels. We must continue to move forward by “embracing the hill.” The phrase came to me on one of my runs across campus, where the hill was both a physical challenge to climb and a reminder of the determination and resilience that define our community. It reflects our spirit—grounded in who we are, strengthened by challenge and united in purpose.

Despite these challenges, as you will see in this issue of CC Magazine, we are “making waves” in more ways than one. One feature spotlights Emily Hazelwood ’11, whose company, Blue Latitudes, is leading the global Rigs-to-Reefs movement by transforming decommissioned oil platforms into thriving coral ecosystems. Even more inspiring, Emily is extending these opportunities to today’s Camels, partnering with faculty and guiding current students like Jamie Sussman ’26 through hands-on marine science research. It’s a striking example of the ripple effect of a Conn education: the wellspring of curiosity nurtured in our classrooms expanding into world-changing solutions while also opening doors for the next generation.

Closer to home, our athletics program has been making waves of its own. From the pool to the pitch, Conn athletes are excelling at the highest levels. Our men’s swim team and women’s cross country and track & field teams have posted record-breaking performances, and our men’s soccer program has achieved standout conference accomplishments that remind us of the determination, discipline and teamwork that define Camel athletics. These triumphs reflect the same drive and resilience that prepare our students for success in every field of life.

This issue also highlights our Outcomes project, the clearest measure of our mission in action. At a time when many question the value of a college degree, we showcase the stories and data that demonstrate the power of a Conn education. From alumni on Wall Street, to graduate study at Cornell, to careers at Mystic Aquarium and the Royal Ballet in London, our graduates leave prepared to dive into the unknown, to chart new courses and to lead with creativity and courage.

Since my last CC Magazine letter, I celebrated my first anniversary as your president. I wish to express how much your warm welcome, passion for all things Conn and steadfast support have deepened my gratitude and joy in serving this truly extraordinary institution. 

With gratitude,

Andrea E. Chapdelaine, Ph.D.