Welcome to the New Blue Devil Journey E-Newsletter!

Alumni Spotlight
Tom Mitchell ’93

From his time at Central to launching his own highly successful financial planning firm, Tom Mitchell ’93 has followed a path shaped by curiosity, determination, and a touch of strategic foresight.
Tom’s academic journey at Central was profoundly influenced by Dr. Robert Fitzsimmons, a beloved psychology professor renowned for memorizing every student’s name by the end of the first class. Captivated by Dr. Fitzsimmons’ engaging teaching style, Tom immersed himself in his courses...
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Thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s Athletic Wine and Beer Tasting Event a resounding success.  Over $28,000 was raised to support Central’s D1 Athletic Program.  
At the event we bid farewell to our colleague Steve Villanti ’87, ’07 as he retires this year.  Steve dedicated over 35 years to Central. Starting as a Graduate Assistant and Offensive Line Coach in 1985, Steve went on to serve as Associate Head Football Coach and later as Associate Athletic Director for External Affairs, where he raised over $4 million dollars for athletics and shaped student-athletes' lives. He also taught courses, earned two master’s degrees, and served as a passionate advocate for his colleagues and the community. To celebrate his legacy, the Steve Villanti Scholarship Fund has been created to support Blue Devil student-athletes, ensuring his influence on the university continues for generations. Steve’s character, compassion, and dedication make him a beloved figure whose legacy is celebrated by all who know him.  In honor of Steve, consider making a donation at:
https://fundraise.givesmart.com/e/TNCQIw?vid=1inxov

Make Your RMD Work for You - And for Central

If you’re 73 or older and have a traditional IRA or other tax-deferred retirement account, you’re required to take a Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) each year. While these distributions are taxable, there’s a smart way to use them to support Central—and reduce your tax burden at the same time.

By making a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) directly from your IRA to the CCSU Foundation, Inc., you can satisfy your RMD without increasing your taxable income. This means you avoid paying taxes on the amount donated while making a meaningful impact on today’s students.

Why Consider a QCD?

• Reduce your taxable income while fulfilling your RMD requirement.
• Support Central Connecticut State University and help shape the next generation.
• Make an immediate impact on scholarships, academic programs, and student success initiatives.

Your generosity helps keep the spirit of Central strong for years to come!
For questions, email Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Jen Destefani at jdestefani@ccsu.edu

Stay connected and see what your fellow Blue Devils are up to!
Visit the ever-changing Class Notes section on the alumni website to catch up on career moves, life milestones, achievements, and more.
Share your life updates here.

CCSU Alumni: Update Your Information

Elevate Your Career with Professional Education   
The Office of Professional Education invites you to expand your skills and advance your career with our programs.  
.    Stay ahead with the latest industry insights
.    Enhance your expertise with expert-led courses
.    Expand your professional network
.    Gain certifications to boost your resume
.    Enjoy flexible learning options

View both In person and online courses!    Alumni and Veteran receive discounts!
For questions contact Olivia Sage at o.sage@ccsu.edu

SAVE THE DATES
Saturday, April 5 @ 11am Community Baby Shower


ATHLETICS

Lacrosse:
Saturday, April 5 vs. Delaware State @ 1pm
Saturday, April 12 vs. Wagner @ 1pm

Softball:
Friday, April 18 vs. Stonehill College @ 1pm and 3pm
Saturday, April 19 vs. Stonehill College @ 12pm

Baseball:
Wednesday, April 9 vs. Northeastern University @ 3pm
Thursday, April 17 vs. Quinnipiac University @ 3pm
Friday, April 18 vs. Quinnipiac University @ 1pm

Track and Field
Friday, April 25 – Blue Devil Invitational