Charger Nation News

Read the latest University news, check out feature stories about signature University programs, or see our faculty quoted in some of the most well-known newspapers, TV shows, and radio programs.

 

Latest News and Media Coverage

Charger 360

Charger 360 - Season 4, Episode 17: Paul Lavoie

Paul Laovie, vice president for innovation and applied technology, shares his journey from being a first-generation high school graduate, beginning his career in the supermarket industry, and becoming the youngest store manager in the company’s history. He reflected on going back to school at nights and his career in sales and marketing as well as running a marketing agency and consulting business, before transitioning into manufacturing and being named the State of Connecticut’s Chief Manufacturing Officer, a role he held for several years prior to joining the University. He talked about the vision for the University’s Elevation Center that is being developed in a 133,000 square foot facility adjacent to campus, industry collaborations he’s pursuing for the Center – including a concept in which the University would be part of a group creating a national hub for supply chain excellence – and his commitment to helping ensure graduates are better than ready for the careers of the future. “Our job is to stay one step ahead,” he said. “This is where higher education needs to go. We need to lean into industry.”

Charger 360

Charger 360 - Season 4, Episode 16: Katie Aisel ’26

Katie Aisel ’26, a communication major and a crew member on Charger 360, stepped in front of the camera to share her journey to the University of New Haven, calling it a happy accident that she learned about the school. It was a visit to campus that resonated most with her when she, coincidentally, met Charger 360 co-host Bruce Barber, the general manager of WNHU. “Differently from other schools, the way that you spoke about the school and students in general was so inspiring to me.” She also reflected on serving as the director for a student-created film called “My Man,” a romance thriller that will be submitted for a student production award, as well as attending the Cannes Film Festival as a sophomore. “It was such a magical experience.”

Charger 360

Charger 360 - Season 4, Episode 15: Jess Scibek and Emilio Sanchez ’26 M.S.

Jess Scibek, director of campus recreation, discusses her journey to the University, her background in corporate fitness, and transitioning to a university setting, as well as her passion for helping people stay well and the benefits of the programs available through the David A. Beckerman Recreation Center. Emilio Sanchez ’26, a native of Mexico, a graduate student in sport management, and a graduate assistant with ChargerREC, shared his background living across the globe in China, Singapore, Spain, and the U.S. Jess talked about her family’s passion for New Haven apizza, and Emilio gave an inside look at his experiences in and out of the classroom, including an upcoming sales competition he’ll be part of. “The opportunities that are being offered at this University is something that I have never experienced,” said Emilio.

Charger 360

Charger 360 - Season 4, Episode 14: Giye Jenkins ’26

Giye Jenkins ’26, a computer science major, joined Charger 360. He highlighted his work with a team of students developing an interdisciplinary concept called Station Engine, which would serve as an innovative way to help automate student-run college radio stations. He also reflected on his experience as a four-year member of Chargers Football, calling it life-changing. “It was everything I could dream of as a college athlete.”