For GM O’Connell, giving back to the NCC Foundation began with a deeply personal connection—his son’s time as a student at Norwalk Community College.

“Through my son’s stretch as a student at NCC (now CT State Norwalk), I was exposed to both the successes and needs that students and faculty experience, as well as the need for support services,” GM shared, “especially the students who were bright, committed, and personally struggling to balance their ambition with work, family commitments, and financial hardships.”

It was a conversation with then NCC Foundation board member, Joe Zimmel, that encouraged GM to get more involved. What began as an introduction soon became a calling. GM became a mentor, a financial supporter, and eventually, a Foundation board member himself.

What inspires him most is how even modest contributions can change lives.

“The fact that a little tuition money goes a long way, specifically for those who use CT State Norwalk as a two-year stepping stone to a full BA or BS, is particularly powerful.”

His passion is rooted in a strong belief in education equity and the power of community colleges to open doors, especially for students facing steep challenges.

Whether through scholarships, mentoring, or simply showing up, GM’s generosity is a testament to the ripple effect of giving.

“The stories of so many of the scholarship recipients, especially those who go on to earn transfer scholarships, stay with me,” he said. “You may not always remember names, but you never forget the impact.”