Gratitude, inspiration, and community on full display

The NCC Foundation’s annual Scholarship Celebration brought together scholarship recipients, donors, and members of the CT State Norwalk community for an evening of connection and gratitude.

Students had the chance to meet and thank the donors who made their education possible. Charles (Skip) and William Shaeffer shared thoughtful remarks about the impact of giving, and student speakers, Kevin Inga Sosa and Veronica Alvarenga, spoke about how scholarship support has shaped their lives.

The event was a reminder of what’s possible when a community invests in its students. Whether pursuing nursing, business, or other career paths, these students are turning opportunity into momentum. Hundreds of scholarships were awarded this year—each one a step toward a brighter future.

See more from the evening on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

We’re grateful to our donors for making this event—and these opportunities—possible. Every gift opens a door.

Class of 1971 | Veteran | Donor | Longtime Supporter

Lance Winer graduated from Norwalk Technical College in 1971 and has been a loyal supporter of the NCC Foundation for over 25 years. As a veteran, engineer, and proud alum, he believes deeply in the power of education and the impact of giving back.

In this spotlight, Lance shares memories from his time on campus and reflects on why he continues to support today’s students.

Q: What does it mean to you personally to reflect on the history of Norwalk Technical College and see how it has evolved into CT State Norwalk?

A: I’m very proud of the progress of the school, the students, and its graduates. The number of majors is amazing, and I’ve always admired how the college stays aware of the local needs of the surrounding communities. They continue to offer new curriculums to meet those needs.

Q: What was student life like during your time at Norwalk Technical College?

A: We had a tri-semester system, so you really couldn’t afford to fall behind. Tuition was $100 a year—paid in three parts: $35, $35, and $30—but the books were expensive. What stood out most was the faculty. We had a retired Navy Captain, a retired Army Colonel, and an oil executive. They weren’t there for the paycheck—they taught because they wanted to pass on their knowledge. It made a lasting impression on me.

Q: How did your education influence your career?

A: The curriculum was very useful in my career as an Industrial Engineer in the aircraft industry. It gave me a strong technical foundation and a disciplined approach to learning that served me well.

Q: How did your military service impact your educational journey?

A: While I was in the service, I knew I wanted to go back to school and get my bachelor’s. I was fortunate—when I transferred to CCSU, most of my credits from Norwalk Tech were accepted. In my opinion, veterans need a little help readjusting to academics, and I’m glad to know the college now has staff in place to support them.

Q: What advice would you give today’s CT State Norwalk students?

A: My advice is simple: “If you learn, you will earn.” Education should be available to everyone. It gives people the opportunity to better themselves and their futures.

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Lance was also featured in the Sarasota Herald-Tribune sharing stories from his time aboard the USS Intrepid during his military service. Read the full article here.

In solemn recognition of Memorial Day, the NCC Foundation proudly announced the creation of the Daniel J. Shea Memorial Scholarship at the City of Norwalk’s annual Veterans Memorial Ceremony, held at Calf Pasture Beach on May 18.

PFC Daniel John Shea, a Norwalk native, served as a combat medic during the Vietnam War. His extraordinary heroism—saving multiple comrades under heavy fire—earned him the Medal of Honor, posthumously. His actions reflected the highest traditions of military service and enduring selflessness.

NCC Foundation CFO Kris Yeager delivered remarks during the ceremony and officially unveiled the new scholarship. “This scholarship will serve as a legacy of courage and selflessness,” said Yeager. “It’s about making sure the next generation remembers and is empowered by what Daniel stood for.”

The scholarship will be awarded annually to a deserving CT State Norwalk student who has demonstrated commitment to service or public impact, continuing PFC Shea’s spirit through education.

As we honor those who gave all, we also build a bridge to the future—where sacrifice inspires scholarship, and memory becomes momentum.

To learn more click here or scan the QR Code to the right.

Food insecurity shouldn’t be part of the college experience—but for many students, it still is. That’s why the CT State Norwalk Food Pantry remains one of the most critical initiatives supported by the NCC Foundation. Thanks to a generous community and new partners like Wegmans, that impact is growing.

Earlier this month, The Pantry received a special donation to help stock its shelves from Wegmans, whose grand opening is set for late July in the Norwalk community. The beloved grocery store chain is already proving to be more than just a great place to shop—they’re stepping in as thoughtful neighbors.

Watch the partnership in action on Instagram

From canned goods and fresh produce to hygiene supplies and grab-and-go snacks, The Pantry provides essentials to students facing financial challenges.

“The Pantry helps students stay focused on their education instead of worrying about their next meal,” said Nancy von Euler, president and CEO of the NCC Foundation. “Partnerships like this make that possible.”

In a time when the cost of living continues to rise, this kind of support is more than generous—it’s essential. As we welcome Wegmans to Norwalk, we also celebrate all who donate time, food, or funds to ensure every student has what they need to succeed.

A licensed lawyer and financial professional with almost 30 years of experience, from 2001 to 2011, Read was head of trading of Eos Partners, L.P. Prior to Eos, He was an analyst and trader at Kadem Capital. Before that, Read practiced corporate law at Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP and Clifford Chance LLP.

Read graduated Cum Laude from Harvard College, where he played varsity football and lacrosse. Read is also a graduate of NYU School of Law. Although he is licensed to practice law in NY, CT and the Federal Courts, Read does not offer legal advice in his current role as Sr. V.P. at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management.

Taught the rewarding nature of active philanthropy and the value of making a difference by someone very important in his life, Read volunteers and sits on the boards of Mission (a.k.a. The CT Challenge), the Norwalk Community College Foundation, The New York Executive Board of Harlem Lacrosse and The Open Doors Shelter in Norwalk, CT.

Read is an avid reader (disclaimer – listener via Audible), a bad golfer, a mediocre cross fitter and steadfastly refuses to quit playing lacrosse.