The event brought together university and community leaders, including Danbury Mayor Roberto Alves, Catherine Awwad, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board, representatives from the American Job Center, and WCSU faculty, staff, students, community partners, and state elected officials.

By bringing the American Job Center to campus, WCSU is expanding access to career counseling, job placement support, training opportunities, and workforce development resources for students, alumni, and community members. The partnership creates a stronger connection between education and employment while helping learners access practical support as they prepare for meaningful and sustainable careers. 

“WestConn is proud to host the American Job Center on our Midtown campus,” said WCSU President Jesse Bernal. “This partnership brings opportunity closer to our students and community. It strengthens the connection between learning and work, opens new doors for our learners, and helps local businesses build stronger talent pipelines right here in our region.”

Through workshops, drop-in support, coordinated events, and employer engagement, the American Job Center’s presence on campus will provide added capacity for career readiness and workforce connection. Planned services include job-search coaching, résumé and cover letter support, career navigation, training referrals, and employer information sessions, all coordinated with WCSU’s Career Success Center. 

The partnership reflects WCSU’s broader commitment to serving as a community-engaged university and regional partner, connecting students more directly to opportunity while supporting the workforce needs of Greater Danbury and Western Connecticut.