Fitchburg State University and Suffolk University, on behalf of Suffolk Law School, have officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding after the signing of a new 3+3 Baccalaureate/Juris Doctor (JD) Degree Program Agreement recently. This strategic partnership creates an accelerated pathway for motivated students to earn both their undergraduate and law degrees in just six years, saving one full year of time and tuition. “We began this academic year talking about possibility – what becomes possible when talent, ambition, and opportunity come together,” said Fitchburg State University President Donna Hodge. “That is really what this is about. This means that students who come to Fitchburg State with the ability and determination to pursue law can see a pathway forward and know that we are working to remove unnecessary barriers along the way. That’s central to our mission. Access is not simply about opening the door to higher education. It is about what we make possible for students once they walk through it, while holding them to the high academic standards that prepare them for what comes next.” Vice President of Academic Affairs Franca Barricelli said that this partnership reflects the university’s commitment to creating high-impact, flexible academic pathways that empower our students to achieve their professional goals efficiently. “By combining Fitchburg State’s strong undergraduate foundation with Suffolk Law’s exceptional legal education, we are streamlining the journey for aspiring legal professionals while maintaining the academic rigor and preparation they need to thrive in the field,” said Barricelli. Under the terms of the agreement, qualified Fitchburg State students can apply for law school admission during their junior year. If accepted, students will transition to Suffolk Law for their fourth year of study. The first 30 credits successfully completed at Suffolk University Law School will transfer back to Fitchburg State to satisfy the remaining requirements for the student’s baccalaureate degree. “This partnership reflects our commitment to providing students with high-value, accessible pathways to professional success,” said Fitchburg State Department Chair and Professor of the Economics, History and Political Science Department Paul Weizer. “By streamlining the transition from undergraduate study to a prestigious law program like Suffolk’s, we are helping our students jumpstart their legal careers while reducing the financial burden of higher education.” To be eligible for the program, Fitchburg State students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.30 or higher and achieve an LSAT score (or other approved admission test scores) that meets or exceeds the median for Suffolk Law’s previous matriculating class. Students must complete 75 percent of their Fitchburg State credits before beginning their legal studies in Boston. “Suffolk Law is thrilled to collaborate with Fitchburg State to welcome their most ambitious students into our community,” said Dean of Admissions at Suffolk University Law School Anthony Orlando, whose mother, Susan Orlando, and sister, Amy Katon, both graduated from Fitchburg State with nursing degrees. “Fitchburg State students are known for their work ethic and academic preparation. This agreement ensures that these students have a clear, supported route to a Juris Doctor degree at an institution dedicated to practice-ready legal education.” The program is effective immediately. Students enrolled in the 3+3 program will be eligible to apply for Suffolk Law’s merit-based scholarships and financial aid on the same terms as traditional applicants. Fitchburg State will also host Suffolk Law representatives on campus for recruitment and advising sessions to assist students in navigating the application process.

Fitchburg State University President Donna Hodge announced eight new Presidential Fellows for the 2026-2027 academic year. The Fellows Program was launched by President Hodge in 2024 with the goal of fostering leadership growth among faculty and librarians by providing a unique professional development opportunity. The Presidential Fellows engage regularly with the President’s Office and senior university leadership on issues relevant to Fitchburg State and the broader landscape of higher education. The fellowship is intended to recognize and amplify the meaningful work faculty and librarians are already doing across the university. The 2026-27 Presidential Fellows are: Professor Benjamin Railton (English Studies); Associate Professor Jessica Robey (Humanities); Associate Professor Michael McCutcheon (Behavioral Sciences); Professor Christa Marr (Economics, History and Political Science); Professor Christopher Adams (Psychological Science); Associate Librarian Olivia Rossetti (Library); Professor Sarah Wright (Mathematics); Associate Professor Billy Samulak (Biology and Chemistry). “Our Presidential Fellows represent the best of Fitchburg State’s commitment to bold ideas and collective progress,” said President Hodge. “By giving these early and mid-career faculty and librarians this platform, we are investing not only in their professional growth but in the transformation of our university and the communities we serve. “This program reflects a simple but powerful truth: leadership is not confined to titles or offices,” said Hodge. “It is cultivated in classrooms, libraries, and laboratories—and it flourishes when people are trusted to innovate. I am proud of this year’s Fellows, and I look forward to the ways their work will advance our mission as the number one state university in Massachusetts.” Psychological Science Department Chair Laura Garofoli will coordinate this year’s Presidential Fellows Program. This cohort was selected under Professor David Weiss’ leadership. “I am absolutely thrilled to serve as special advisor to the President for the Presidential Fellows Program and to have the privilege of working with this truly extraordinary cohort,” said Garofoli. “These eight fellows represent the very best of Fitchburg State — spanning disciplines from the sciences to the humanities to our library, and bringing an incredible depth of experience, passion, and dedication to our students and our institution. I could not be more excited about the meaningful work ahead, as we celebrate and elevate the remarkable things our faculty and librarians are already doing every day. I have no doubt that this cohort will make a lasting impact on Fitchburg State and the North Central region.” "The Presidential Fellows showcase leadership that inspires forward movement—grounded in purpose, motivated by curiosity, and focused on making a permanent, positive difference both on campus and beyond,” said Weiss. The Presidential Fellows will have the opportunity to propose, engage, and see to fruition a focused project or initiative of their choosing, in consultation with the President’s Office, which is meaningful, impactful, and elevates the “Number One State University” throughout the North Central Region, Massachusetts, and beyond.

Fitchburg State University’s Bachelor of Science programs in Computer Science and Computer Information Systems (CIS) have earned reaccreditation from the Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) through September 30, 2032. “ABET’s endorsement reinforces Fitchburg State’s commitment to providing a high-caliber education that equips our students with the critical skills and adaptability needed to excel in a rapidly evolving technological landscape,” said Acting Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Franca Barricelli. Dean of the School of Business and Technology Dr. Mahmoud Al-Odeh pointed to the milestone as evidence of the department's momentum and forward-looking curriculum. “ABET reaccreditation is a reflection of the hard work, passion, and dedication of our Computer Science faculty and their commitment to our students,” said Al-Odeh. “It validates the quality of the education we provide today while challenging us to keep looking forward. As AI and other emerging technologies reshape the workforce, we will continue strengthening our curriculum, expanding hands-on learning and internship opportunities, and creating pathways that prepare our graduates for both today’s careers and those that are still emerging.” ABET is a globally recognized accreditor of college and university programs in computing, engineering, engineering technology, and applied and natural sciences. The reaccreditation reflects the quality of Fitchburg State’s computing programs and the commitment of faculty, students, and the university to academic excellence and continuous improvement. Earning ABET reaccreditation involves a comprehensive evaluation of a program’s curriculum, faculty, facilities, institutional support, student outcomes, and continuous improvement processes. For Fitchburg State, the achievement provides important value to several communities. For students and families, ABET accreditation provides assurance that Fitchburg State’s Computer Science and CIS programs meet rigorous, internationally recognized standards for computing education. For employers, it demonstrates that the programs are built around clearly defined student outcomes and professional expectations in the computing field. For the university, the reaccreditation reinforces Fitchburg State’s commitment to delivering high-quality, career-focused education that combines strong academic foundations with hands-on, applied learning. At the heart of this achievement is the dedication of Fitchburg State’s Computer Science faculty. ABET reaccreditation is more than recognition of past accomplishments; it represents an ongoing commitment to assessing student learning and continually strengthening the educational experience. Through curriculum review, assessment of student outcomes, and engagement with students, alumni, and industry partners, faculty continue to examine how the programs can respond to a rapidly changing technology landscape. That work is increasingly important as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data analytics, cloud computing, and other emerging technologies reshape both the computing profession and the skills employers seek. “ABET accreditation confirms that our Computer Science and Computer Information Systems programs meet established profession-wide standards for curriculum, faculty, and student outcomes,” said Dr. Natasha Kourtonina, chair of the Computer Science Department. “We are especially proud of our students. The visiting committee reviewed its work in our classes and praised it highly. ABET accreditation also means that FSU supports our programs and provides the resources needed to sustain them. We expect the accreditation to improve our students' prospects for future employment and graduate studies.” The reaccreditation through 2032 positions Fitchburg State’s Computer Science and CIS programs on a strong foundation for continued innovation, industry engagement, and student success.

Fitchburg State University has announced the launch of a new family housing option to support both undergraduate and graduate students with families as they pursue their degrees. The university has introduced a model apartment to showcase the layout and features available to prospective resident families, expanding its residential footprint and continuing its efforts to provide flexible, accessible, and inclusive housing solutions for a diverse student population. The family units will be located at 185 North St., which had previously served as apartments for traditional undergraduate and graduate students. The addition of family housing reflects Fitchburg State’s commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of its community. In recent years, the university has expanded its residential offerings along North Street, Highland Avenue, and within Simonds Hall to accommodate a growing number of non-traditional, international, and graduate students. By expanding options at the 185 North St. property, the university is creating a dedicated, supportive environment where students balancing academic goals with family responsibilities can thrive directly on campus. “Housing pressures are real across North Central Massachusetts, and they affect our students, their families, our workforce, and the communities we serve," said Fitchburg State President Donna Hodge. "This new option gives us an opportunity to respond to an immediate student need while also learning more about where demand exists and how the university can be a thoughtful partner in larger conversations about housing, access, and economic opportunity in our region. For Fitchburg State, this is about understanding what our students and community need and helping create the conditions for good solutions to emerge.” Designed to comfortably accommodate up to five family members – defined as spouses, significant others, or dependent children – each family unit is structured as a spacious, fully furnished five-bedroom apartment. The layout provides ample room for both personal privacy and shared family life. Each unit features two bedrooms equipped with twin XL beds, dressers, and study desks, alongside a primary bedroom fitted with a queen-size bed, dresser, and desk. The shared spaces within each unit are thoughtfully designed for daily convenience. The living room comes fully furnished with a sofa, coffee table, end table, and a wall-mounted 40-inch television. The kitchen is equipped with modern, full-size appliances, including a refrigerator and freezer, stovetop, oven, and dishwasher, as well as a four-person dining table. For added convenience, every unit includes an in-unit washer and dryer, eliminating the need to use shared laundry facilities. “Family housing allows us to think about the residential experience in a more inclusive way and recognize that 'living on campus' can look different for every student,” said Fitchburg State Director of Residence Life Reilly Schaefer. “We recognize that our students have lives and responsibilities beyond the classroom, and we want them to see living on campus as more than simply renting a space, but an opportunity to feel at home and be part of a supportive residential community. With fully furnished apartments, all-inclusive utilities, modern amenities, proximity to campus resources and year-round housing options, we've designed family housing to make day-to-day life a little easier so our students can focus on their education while still having the comforts and stability of a home.” To simplify budgeting and lower living barriers for student families, the cost of family housing is structured as an all-inclusive package. Housing fees cover all standard utilities, including water, electricity, gas, sewer, and heat, as well as complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi access. Additionally, the university provides full maintenance support, trash disposal, and regular snow removal throughout the winter months. A key advantage of the family housing program is its year-round availability. Unlike traditional undergraduate residence halls that close during campus breaks, family housing operates on a 12-month housing occupancy agreement. This structure allows resident families to remain continuously in their homes through winter, spring, and summer breaks without disruption. "Our goal in Student Affairs is to create an environment where every student has the resources and support they need to succeed, no matter their life stage," said Dean of Students and Chief Student Affairs Officer Tim St. John. “This is one example of how we are working to ensure a student experience that is accessible to all.” Students in good academic standing who remain enrolled in their degree programs will also have the opportunity to renew their housing agreements for subsequent years. By offering comprehensive family accommodations directly on campus, Fitchburg State aims to reduce commute times, relieve external housing stress, and integrate student families into the broader university community. Residents will enjoy immediate proximity to campus academic buildings, administrative offices, health services, and recreational facilities, ensuring that non-traditional and graduate student families have equal access to vital campus support structures. The program is open to both undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in degree-granting programs at Fitchburg State University. Prospective residents must meet standard eligibility requirements and complete the formal Family Housing Agreement process. Students interested in exploring this new housing option, reviewing eligibility details, or arranging a viewing of the model apartment are encouraged to reach out directly to the university's Residence Life office. Inquiries and application requests can be submitted via email to housing@fitchburgstate.edu or by visiting the Fitchburg State Residence Life website at www.fitchburgstate.edu/campus-life/residence-life.

Fitchburg State University has been recognized among the best business degrees programs in Massachusetts 2027 ranking by Research.com. The institution was also a winner of the Best Online Business Programs in Massachusetts Award. "We're proud to see Fitchburg State University recognized for the quality and value of our programs, particularly in areas like business and nursing that serve students at many different stages of their lives," said Fitchburg State University President Dr. Donna Hodge. "Our online programs extend the academic rigor, faculty expertise, and personal attention that define a Fitchburg State education to students who need greater flexibility in how and where they learn. That combination of quality, access, and affordability is central to our public mission and to the opportunities we work to create for our students." You can find the full profile of Fitchburg State here: https://research.com/best-colleges/fitchburg-state-university Fitchburg State University was also recognized in these rankings: 2027 Best Online Business Degree Programs Ranking in Massachusetts 2027 Best Online Master's in Nursing Degree Programs Ranking in the USA 2027 Best Online Master's in Nursing Degree Programs Ranking in Massachusetts 2027 Best Online Nursing Degree Programs Ranking in Massachusetts Research.com is a leading university ranking platform dedicated to helping students make informed decisions about their education. This recognition is part of Research.com's newly released best colleges ranking, which highlights America’s top colleges in terms of quality of education, popularity and affordability. The 2027 rankings by Research.com were compiled through an extensive analysis of data points from multiple sources, including Peterson, IPEDS, and College ScoreCard. These rankings consider various degree types and regions, focusing on key factors such as overall quality, affordability, popularity, and the time required to earn a degree. Fitchburg State University is a public university in Massachusetts known for combining strong academics with a supportive, student-centered environment. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed with career readiness in mind, emphasizing hands-on learning, internships, and close collaboration with faculty. With smaller class sizes, students benefit from personalized attention and meaningful mentorship, helping them succeed both academically and professionally.