Fitchburg State University students continued their streak of success at the recent University Resident Theater Association’s annual auditions. Five Fitchburg State University students—Emerson Disalle, Spencer Froilin, Kyra Galbreath, Lina Kherallah, and Lyanny Pinales—shone at the auditions for international satellite graduate schools and elite professional training programs. “The auditions were online and streamed which makes it very nerve-wracking for the students,” said Fitchburg State Professor Kelly Morgan of the Communications Media Department. “They only have two minutes to show two dramatic selections, which include a transition and between the two. They rehearse long hours over many days and weeks to prepare for these University Resident Theater Auditions and Guest Satellite Auditions, which are done at the same time and seen by over 50 graduate schools, professional actor training programs and professional regional resident theater companies.” For the URTA auditions, Kherallah’s two contrasting monologues were “Just a Crack” by Joseph Arnone and “In the Time of your Life” by William Saroyan. “These two monologues felt great to perform because they spoke to me and I knew I could perform them well to convey my message to the recruiters watching,” said Kherallah, a Fitchburg resident who graduated with a bachelor's in business administration with a theater minor in December 2025. “The experience went well.” As a cohort, said Morgan, the factors that each one of the students conveyed to attract attention from these very prestigious schools and companies include: authenticity, diverse set of emotions, comic sense and timing, classical text analysis, nuance, contrasting audition selection, a talent for film and stage performance, focus, imagining the other when talking into the camera, and personalizing the text. “We are the best kept secret for anyone wanting training in performance and technical theater in New England and New York, so they would obtain work and achieve career success as our students have been doing for decades,” said Morgan. This year’s success marks the 11th consecutive year that every auditioning Falcon has been invited back for further consideration by world-renowned institutions. “They are vetted by the acting faculty to ensure that they are qualified to represent not only themselves but the university,” said Morgan. “Their personal brand, and our university brand must be upheld. The Communications Media Department is a professional department and so all of its concentrations are professional, as well. Education, training and application are crucial for success. These students display the absorption of content in these areas and are ready for advancement.” Morgan said that as a faculty, they are all extremely proud of these students. “It is important to know that they have done the work,” said Morgan. Kherallah said that being trained by her “incredible” professors at Fitchburg State, including Morgan, prepared her for this very moment. “Kelly has been there for me since the very beginning of my acting career at Fitchburg State,” said Kherallah. “He pushes us students to be the best we can be as both professionals and as people. I did not walk into that audition just feeling confident in my acting abilities, but feeling completely prepared as a professional. They can recognize who is determined and ready to work. I feel so fortunate to have completed these URTA auditions and been so prepared with my performance because the professors at Fitchburg State, like Kelly, have prepared us to stand out as professional artists, ready to take on graduate school.” The 2026 cohort of students now faces the enviable challenge of choosing between some of the most prestigious theater programs in the world. Their call-backs span the globe, from the historic studios of New York City to elite conservatories in London and Liverpool. “It’s overwhelming to say the least,” said Kherallah. “The auditions were just the start and the callbacks were validation of our hard work. After our callback meetings, we have a little bit of a leg up when we apply to these graduate schools and training programs.” As these students prepare to graduate, they leave behind a legacy that reaffirms Fitchburg State’s position as a premier destination for theater training. The 100 percent call-back rate serves as a "seal of quality" for recruiters, who now look to Fitchburg State for the next generation of disciplined, versatile, and highly skilled performers. “Our Communications Media faculty, and faculty across the campus, have had wonderful influence on these student actors by presenting their content with passion, depth and application to life,” said Morgan. “Theater reflects life and when faculty present the truthful application of their ‘art’ in such a manner, then these actors reflect the lessons learned in the characters they present.” Kherallah recommends any high school student to consider the theater program at Fitchburg State. “If you are determined to become an artist, not just an actor, the Fitchburg State theater program is a reliable and motivating source for your future,” said Kherallah. “You have a small group so your professors can spend time with you. The professors like Kelly Morgan and Mary Vreeland are seasoned and extremely talented artists who now focus their expertise to bring out the best in their students. I have never met professors who care so much about their students. They go above and beyond to push us and make what is uncomfortable, something we strive to overcome. Obstacles become opportunities and insecurities become assets. These professors will completely transform you as an artist, and change you as a person.” 2026 American College Theater Festival Students received more awards recently at the 2026 American College Theater Festival in Albany, N.Y. The students honored include: Jaylis Lopez (Irene Ryan Acting Award/ Best Scene Partner out of 283), Julia Dufresne (Outstanding Performance in the National Playwriting Program), Thomas Meehan (Outstanding Supporting Performance in the National Playwriting Program), Ryan Barker (Runner-up, National Stage Directors and Choreographers Program), Lina Kherallah (Irene Ryan Acting Award Finalist - Top 16 out of 283 participants), James Cremens (Theatre Journalism/Advocacy Finalist), Emerson Disalle and Noah Barnes (Invited Scene Showcase, STOP KISS), Burke Erickson (2nd Place in the Technical Olympics), Adam Post (3rd Place in the Technical Olympics), Vivian Warren (Merit Award for Stage Management), Nicolas Salamack (Merit Award for Production Leadership), Ryan Barker (Merit Award for Directorial Assistance), Alyssa Brayley (Merit Award for Costume Design), and Alyssa Brayley (Merit Award for Properties Design).

Fitchburg State University’s Future Falcon Academy recently welcomed middle school students from Fitchburg and Leominster for an immersive four-day experience during school vacation that provided each student with a fun and meaningful introduction to university life. The students participated in highly-engaging workshops in areas such as science, literature, the arts, criminal justice, health, human services, and more. Additionally, the university hosts a Future Falcon Academy All-Stars Day in the summer, which is a special event that brings back participating students for a day of fun and celebration on campus. “The Future Falcon Academy is designed to introduce middle schoolers to the community and opportunities that Fitchburg State University offers,” said Fitchburg State University Coordinator of the Future Falcon Academy Lourdes Ramirez. “Whether it’s learning a new skill, bonding during game room fun, or speaking with our campus police and safety professionals, every activity is intentional. We want the middle school students to feel empowered to envision themselves in higher education and know that they belong here at Fitchburg State University.” The mission is simple: Empower, inspire, and transform. The Future Falcon Academy introduces middle schoolers to college life, while the Future Educator Academy supports high school students interested in education or people-centered careers through professional and skills development opportunities. Fitchburg State University’s Future Falcon Academy and Future Educator Academy are innovative pipeline programs that open doors for all youth—especially English language learners—to see themselves as future college students and inspiring educators. Through immersive on-campus experiences and mentorship rooted in culturally responsive practices, these academies empower young learners to build confidence, find community, and dream big about their futures in higher education and the classroom. “I think the university focuses on giving students the opportunity to pursue their degrees and experience what it's like to be here, to see the benefits it offers each of us, and to explore the different programs available,” said Longsjo Middle School in Fitchburg eighth-grader Jasmin Solorzano. “This allows us to choose our career path and pursue whatever we want. “The interests that each of us has shown have really caught our attention in the clubs, where each student uses their imagination to show others what they have to offer,” said Solorzano. “If we ever come to this university, we'll have the opportunity to create what the current students have experienced and to achieve what they have accomplished.” Jayce Crespo, a seventh-grade student at SkyView Middle School in Leominster, said that this was his first time stepping foot on campus. “It’s actually been really fun at Future Falcon Academy,” said Crespo. “When I walked up (to campus) I was surprised because I didn’t know there were that many buildings here and even down the street it’s still part of the university. I realized that it was huge.” Crespo, who plays football, basketball and baseball, enjoyed seeing the Rec Center and learning more about the Falcons’ athletic teams. But he really took to Friday’s session in the Hammond Hall’s Main Lounge that was centered around how dogs support people. “We got to learn the difference between therapy, service and emotional support animals,” said Crespo. “I love dogs.” Crespo said that once he eventually graduates from Leominster High School, he really wants to continue his education at Fitchburg State. “I would be really excited to go here because I heard that all the programs give students a high chance to go and become whatever they like,” said Crespo. “Some kids have become biologists, basketball stars and football stars. I feel like if I was going to go here I would feel like it would be a great opportunity for me to become something that I never thought that I would become.”

The revitalization of Fitchburg’s downtown corridor will accelerate with the announcement of Fitchburg State University’s alliance with prominent developer GFI Partners to realize a transformative, mixed-use development in the heart of the city. The plans are attracting endorsements from city, state, and federal leaders who see their transformative potential. Ground will be broken this spring on the 707 Main St. project that will revitalize the city center and address a crucial community need. New construction of multi-family, market-rate housing, along with retail and restaurant space, will be built where a long-vacant and deteriorating theater block now stands. The resulting building will support the city’s need for additional housing stock, and will include parking spaces dedicated for city use. “Downtown Fitchburg is not separate from Fitchburg State University. Our students walk these streets. Our employees live here. Our graduates build their lives here,” said President Hodge. “For nearly a decade, this block has represented both possibility and challenge. After careful review of the building’s condition, construction costs, and current market realities, it became clear that the most responsible path forward was one that directly addresses housing demand and sustained economic activity. “This partnership brings meaningful private investment into the heart of the city while advancing a shared goal: more residents downtown, more storefront vitality, and a stronger regional economy,” she continued. “When Main Street is active and growing, it benefits our students, our workforce, and our entire campus community.” GFI Partners is a real estate development firm with more than 30 years of experience. As a fully-integrated firm, the company works with tenants to find their ideal commercial real estate space, from concept to completion and beyond. Its property portfolio contains more than 20 million square feet of commercial properties across the United States. The company recently announced significant developments in the city of Worcester, including a major housing project near Polar Park. The project is being supported by city, state and federal officials who recognize the key community needs being addressed. "This initiative revitalizing Fitchburg's downtown is going to be a huge win for the local economy and for Fitchburg State University's ability to recruit and retain the best talent,” said Gov. Maura Healey. “Downtowns are essential for promoting small businesses growth, providing spaces for community to gather, and giving residents a lively and central place to live. We're grateful to Fitchburg State University for using this available space to build more housing, which will help us lower costs for people across the region." "Investments in downtowns like these are essential for increasing the quality of life in Gateway Cities," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "As a former mayor of a Gateway City, I know how important it is to have a downtown that fuels our local economy. This investment from Fitchburg State will provide reasonably-priced housing for our workforce, encourage housing growth, and bring a new energy to Fitchburg." “The redevelopment of the former Fitchburg Theater builds on the incredible momentum already underway in downtown Fitchburg,” said Ed Augustus, Secretary of the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities. “When I toured the site last spring, it was clear there is real energy and commitment behind this effort. Putting more people living downtown brings life to Main Street, supports local businesses and helps keep the district active beyond the workday.” “Redeveloping this long-vacant property on Main Street has been a priority for years because of what it means for Fitchburg’s future,” said Congresswoman Lori Trahan. “I have been proud to support efforts at the federal level to help move this project forward and unlock new housing, small business opportunities, and economic momentum in the heart of the city. This partnership between Fitchburg State University, the City of Fitchburg, and GFI Partners represents exactly the kind of collaboration that strengthens our Gateway Cities and revitalizes downtown corridors. I am grateful to President Hodge, Mayor Samantha Squailia, and our partners across all levels of government for their shared commitment to bringing new life and opportunity to downtown Fitchburg.” “This project represents a historic investment to build housing for working families, revitalize Fitchburg, and further transform Main Street into a vibrant regional economic corridor and hub,” said State Sen. John Cronin. “Today’s agreement also shows the power of teamwork and public-private partnerships—how local, state, and federal leaders working together with the private sector has changed the trajectory of our city’s future. I am especially grateful to President Donna Hodge and her team at Fitchburg State for their commitment to move both the city and the university forward.” “This project pairs the primary needs of our downtown by combining housing, commercial expansion and underutilized property development,” said State Rep. Michael Kushmerek. “After nearly three decades of stagnation, the theater block’s revitalization represents among the largest investments in Fitchburg’s Main Street this century and serves as a catalyst for the continued transformation of our city center.” “Fitchburg’s needs today are clear: we need more downtown housing development, more commercial storefront opportunity, and increased investment that supports our thriving city center," Fitchburg Mayor Samantha Squailia said. "This redevelopment will bring new life to a prominent and long underutilized site, creating new homes, new commercial space, and expanded parking spaces, contributing to our growing momentum that puts more heads in beds and more feet on our Main street. I appreciate Fitchburg State University’s continued partnership and the town and gown collaboration that keeps our forward progress moving. Because when the city, the university, and private partners work together, we get difficult projects done. More downtown apartments will also support the commercial investments already taking root on Main Street and throughout the district, helping those businesses succeed year round as our downtown continues to grow." "This project will add much-needed housing units to the city's downtown housing inventory, in turn promoting economic activity and neighborhood revitalization," said Marc Dohan of NewVue Communities. "The project builds upon the work that NewVue and its development partners have been pursuing for years, and will strengthen the city and region. We appreciate the vision that Fitchburg State and GFI Partners have articulated with this plan, and join our city, state and federal partners in welcoming another transformative project to Main Street." “There is strong momentum building in Fitchburg for a revitalized downtown area,” said Steve Goodman of GFI Partners. “GFI is excited to work with our state and federal leaders, the city, and President Hodge and the University, to redevelop the Theater Block parcels with a new mixed-use project, and continue our commitment to Fitchburg’s growth and resurgence.” The Fitchburg State University Foundation purchased the former Fitchburg Theater in 2016. Substantial renovation followed, including the construction of studio space for its game design program, and the activation of storefronts since occupied by the Pauper’s Pantry restaurant and the Gallery Marquee artist exhibition space. The university relocated the game design studio this past fall and is assisting in the relocation of the gallery and Pauper’s Pantry, who were notified at the inception of their leases that their spaces would have to be vacated once the next phase of work on the block was ready to launch. “We committed to working with our tenants to find new quarters in the city, and thank them for demonstrating the viability of downtown Fitchburg as a destination for recreation and leisure,” said President Hodge. The original plans had attracted local, state and federal support for the project’s potential to transform downtown Fitchburg. Those dollars will still apply to the reimagined development, as the revitalized corridor will still result. The former theater closed its doors in 1987. While the university’s original plans called for the renovation of the theater into a modern performing arts venue, a variety of factors in the intervening years made those aspirations untenable. “Between soaring cost estimates, changing theatergoing habits since the pandemic, the evolving needs of the university and competing demands on its resources, the vision from 2016 is simply no longer viable,” said President Hodge, who became Fitchburg State’s 12th president in July 2024. “The new plan represents a significant private investment that will inject new vitality into this city. We are honored to be part of moving Fitchburg forward.” About Fitchburg State University Fitchburg State University is a public institution dedicated to integrating high-quality professional programs with strong liberal arts and sciences studies. Founded in 1894, the university now has more than 30 undergraduate programs and 22 master's degree programs, and 6,000 full and part-time students. About GFI Partners GFI Partners is a tried and tested real estate development partner with more than 30 years of experience. As a fully-integrated firm, they work with tenants to find their ideal commercial real estate space, from concept to completion and beyond. Its property portfolio contains more than 20 million square feet of commercial properties across the United States.

Strengthening a national model for excellence in law enforcement training, State Representative Michael P. Kushmerek and Senator John J. Cronin have delivered $100,000 in the FY26 budget to expand the Fitchburg State University police program through a dedicated admissions counselor. This strategic investment ensures the program—a pioneer in police education since 2014—continues to recruit and prepare the next generation of highly trained, community-focused officers. "We are profoundly grateful to Representative Kushmerek and Senator Cronin for their steadfast advocacy and this critical investment in our university,” said Fitchburg State University President Donna Hodge. “This funding allows Fitchburg State to expand the reach of our landmark police program by adding a dedicated admissions counselor. This role will be essential in helping us identify and support talented students who are called to serve and protect our Commonwealth." The admissions counselor’s scope of work will be focused primarily on generating and managing recruitment and new enrollment efforts for this program, which allows students to complete bachelor’s and master’s degrees in criminal justice along with full certification to serve as municipal police officers in just five years. "In collaboration with Senator Cronin, we are proud to champion a new era for the Fitchburg State police program by establishing a dedicated admissions role,” said Kushmerek. “This initiative is a strategic investment in the future of public safety, specifically designed to bridge the gap between our academy and the diverse talent within our Gateway Cities and historically marginalized communities. Our goal is to ensure that the next generation of law enforcement truly reflects the residents they serve." “Fitchburg State’s police program has long set the gold standard for modern, community-focused law enforcement training,” said Cronin. “By securing this $100,000 investment, we are ensuring that the next generation of officers is recruited with intention and trained to meet the highest standards of public service. I am proud to partner with Representative Kushmerek to support a program that not only benefits our students but strengthens the bond of trust within our communities." Fitchburg State University Acting Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Franca Barricelli said that while the police program is a pioneer in modern law enforcement training, its true strength lies in its deep roots within the liberal arts. "This is a cumulative curriculum that doesn't sacrifice our origins, but rather builds upon them,” said Barricelli. “ By grounding our students in a foundation of history, ethics, and social understanding, we are ensuring they develop the critical thinking and empathetic communication skills necessary to lead in an evolving world. This investment allows us to recruit students who will be as intellectually prepared as they are tactically ready, serving their communities with a broad worldview and a steadfast commitment to the public good." Additionally, funds will be used to pay recent Fitchburg State University Police Academy Program graduates, some of whom work in the University Police Department, to supplement recruitment efforts. This focused role is designed to address the unique aspects of the university’s Police Academy. The standards for entry, mandatory academic, physical fitness, training requirements, and this specific career path necessitates a focused recruitment effort distinct from general undergraduate admissions. Building on the program’s proven track record of academic excellence and cultural impact, this new funding specifically targets long-term sustainability and strategic recruitment. This initiative represents a landmark collaboration between the university’s police and enrollment, showcasing a unique partnership where law enforcement leadership and academic administrators work in direct concert to create a recruitment pipeline that will strengthen student outcomes and redefine the future of policing across the Commonwealth and beyond. "This funding is a testament to the academic and cultural foundation we’ve built, but more importantly, it allows us to secure the program’s future,” said Fitchburg State Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Success Pam McCafferty. “By aligning our enrollment strategies directly with the expertise of the University Police, we are creating a seamless pathway for students that prioritizes both professional readiness and personal success. We aren't just recruiting students for a program; we are investing in the next generation of leaders who will carry these values into the Commonwealth’s workforce." “By collaborating on this recruitment initiative, we are ensuring that the future of policing is built on a diverse, academically rigorous, and a broader worldview,” said University Police Chief Michael Cloutier. “This isn’t just about filling vacancies—it’s about a shared commitment to elevating the profession and serving our communities with a new standard of excellence."

Building on a foundation of proven academic success, Fitchburg State University and the Massachusetts School of Law at Andover (MSLAW) are proud to announce a significant extension of their existing partnership, which began in 2016. This enhanced articulation agreement bolsters a powerful "3+3" pathway, empowering students to fast-track their legal careers by completing both their bachelor’s and law degrees in just six years. This strategic expansion transforms the previous collaboration into a high-octane academic pipeline. By integrating the final year of undergraduate study with the first year of legal training, the program effectively eliminates one full year of study, allowing students to enter the workforce sooner and save a full year of tuition and associated costs. “This expanded partnership with the Massachusetts School of Law creates a clear, intentional pathway for students who are serious about pursuing a legal career,” said Fitchburg State President Donna Hodge. “By reducing both time and cost, we are removing barriers that too often limit who can realistically imagine themselves in law school, particularly students from our region who have talent but fewer traditional pathways. This agreement reflects our shared commitment to access, academic rigor, and preparation for meaningful professional lives, strengthening the pipeline of future legal professionals who will serve North Central Massachusetts and the Commonwealth. It respects our students’ ambition, their discipline, and the futures they are working to build.” “We are excited to extend our relationship with Fitchburg State University as it provides our institutions with the ability to offer our students a truly affordable, high-quality pathway to becoming a lawyer,” said MSLAW President Michael Coyne. “Traditionally a law degree has provided a ladder to social mobility, economic success, and power. Those opportunities need to be affordable and accessible. This new agreement provides students with a high quality undergraduate and graduate experience while eliminating a year’s time and expense off that journey.” As a Fitchburg State and MSLAW alumnus and current Fitchburg State Board of Trustees member, Shane Rodriguez ‘94 said he’s proud of the expanded partnership because it provides Fitchburg State students with a straightforward, credible path to law school. “The missions of both institutions align, and both are committed to serving hardworking, capable students by providing access, support, and clear expectations,” said Rodriguez. “If a student completes 90 credits at Fitchburg State and meets the academic requirements, they can apply to Massachusetts School of Law without taking the LSAT and begin law school while still finishing their bachelor’s degree. “That structure matters. It helps students plan earlier, stay focused, and move forward with confidence,” said Rodriguez. “It also strengthens advising and accountability by setting clear academic benchmarks. Most importantly, it expands opportunity while maintaining rigor, so more Fitchburg State students can realistically pursue a J.D. and build meaningful legal careers.” The pact is one of several that Fitchburg State has negotiated with post-baccalaureate institutions in an effort to provide cost-effective paths to students’ academic and career goals. Participating students will complete their first three years of study at Fitchburg State, and pending admission to the Massachusetts School of Law, will be able to complete their bachelor’s and juris doctor degrees after their three additional years of study. Students who complete the program will get their bachelor’s degree from Fitchburg State and law degree from Massachusetts School of Law. Ephemian Bailey, who graduated from Fitchburg State in May with a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies with a concentration in pre-law, is currently immersed in the 3+3 law program at MSLAW. “The road right now looks long,” said Bailey, who wants to practice family law, personal injury or immigration law. “There is light at the end of the tunnel but it takes work, time, and dedication. As long as I continue to look at the end of the tunnel and acknowledge that my struggle right now will become someone’s victory in the future, I’ll be OK. Knowing that I’m working so hard on behalf of future clients and not myself is what keeps me going. “The 3+3 pre-law program is cost efficient, as I did not have to pay for my senior year and it allows you to begin your law school career one year ahead of schedule,” said Bailey. While normal tuition and fees will apply for both institutions, a student who enrolls in this program with a GPA of 3.0 or better at Fitchburg State will be eligible for a $5,000 scholarship (per academic year) toward their tuition at MSLAW. To continue receiving this scholarship, students must achieve and maintain satisfactory academic standing at MSLAW (GPA of 2.0 or better). Learn more about the pre-law major.