Pride echoed through Weston Auditorium at Fitchburg State University on Wednesday, where the university celebrated its newest police academy graduates, all of whom are already headed to municipal police departments across Massachusetts. The 9th Recruit Officer Course (ROC) members proudly completed the groundbreaking police program that blends academic and tactical training, allowing graduates to complete both bachelor’s and master’s degrees, along with full certification to work in municipal police departments in just five years. The program was developed in collaboration with the Massachusetts Municipal Police Training Commission (MPTC). Reflecting on their journey through the 9th ROC, Class Leader Christian Marsden highlighted how a tight-knit class of just five recruits endured rigorous physical and mental testing by leaning on teamwork, humor, and intensive training to turn dynamic chaos into a strong foundation for their police careers. “To my classmates of the 9th, take a second to remind yourself of how far we have come,” said Marsden. “Through the last four years and in the academy, everything we have learned has shaped us to who we are today. Think back to staying up late studying, writing reports, gigs, making sure our uniforms are ironed and that we had all the gear for the next day. Quitting was never an option for the 9th. In the moments you thought it would never end, look at us here together on this stage. Continue being yourself and staying true to who you are. Serve with pride, integrity, discipline and be professional to your department, family and keep yourself healthy. Ninth, it is not always going to go the way you want, you will have difficult calls, don't hesitate to call me and hear my Boston accent.” Marsden said that graduation would not have been possible if not for the structure and guidance from the drill instructors, physical training staff, family and the Fitchburg State University Police. A special thank you went out to Academy Director Ola Wysocki. “And to Director Wysocki, you are the foundation and backbone of this Academy/Police Program,” said Marsden. “Your hard work, commitment and dedication to the 9th ROC is unlike anything else. You go above and beyond to make sure everything is run smoothly and when it goes awry, you are always the first one to fix it. Your passion for making sure that we are prepared when we go to our departments is much appreciated. Every day of the academy you were there to steer us in the right direction and supported us to achieve our goals. Thank you for going above and beyond and being the director that everybody wants.” Fitchburg State University President Donna Hodge also addressed the graduates and guests. Hodge recalled seeing the graduates cross the stage for their criminal justice degrees in May before watching them transition just two days later to the starkly different, demanding environment of "Day One" at the Academy, where they met every challenge with pride, poise, and readiness over the next 17 weeks. “The new officers on the stage before you have earned the honors being bestowed upon them today,” said Hodge. “They have demonstrated grit and character, and dedication to a calling bigger than themselves as individuals.” Hodge said she was proud of the university’s collective work and vision in supporting these officers and the classes before and after them, highlighting how dedicated faculty, librarians, and staff helped bridge academic inquiry with professional training in a groundbreaking model worth replicating. “Today, I am most proud of you, the members of the 9th ROC,” said Hodge. “Your discipline and perseverance have led you here, to this stage, where you are being cheered on by family, friends and loved ones, who have believed in you, and, I imagine, been inspired by you. The members of the 10th ROC are in the audience today, looking to follow in your remarkable footsteps. You have set the example, and in this moment I want you to imagine the possibilities that lie before you. Think of the examples you will set in your daily careers, in your personal lives. Imagine the lives your work and your actions will affect.” Hodge said the graduates had completed a rigorous academic curriculum while maintaining uncompromising standards for fitness and conduct. “Very soon, you will be sworn in as police officers, and I know the police chiefs in the room are ready for you to report for duty and begin the work you have all pursued for the last four years, and sometimes longer,” said Hodge. “To the departments who have hired these remarkable officers, I offer congratulations. Your departments will benefit from the addition of these outstanding young men, who have so confidently proven they are ready and willing to embrace the challenges and opportunities ahead.” For the majority of the 17 weeks, Wysocki referred to the 9th ROC as, “small but mighty.” Wysocki highlighted the 9th’s exceptional empathy and character. She recalled that after presenting an Officer Down Memorial report on Auburn Police Officer Ronald Tarentino Jr. at the end of their grueling first week, the recruits engaged in a deep, meaningful discussion about his life, adopting an attitude of deep gratitude rather than selfishness and self pity at the road ahead. Wysocki noted that this compassion carried through their training — such as when the class set aside their competitive drive during a charity 5K road race to slow their pace and support a struggling runner. “On behalf of the staff, I want to thank you 9th for being you,” said Wysocki. “For daily dedication to the process of becoming police officers, for being emotionally intelligent and turning everything into a learning opportunity. Thank you for not getting caught up in being small, but realizing that is where your might comes from. So as the next step in your career starts I ask that you humor me as I give some advice. “The next phase of your training begins, for most of you, as early as tomorrow,” said Wysocki. “Approach it as you have everything up until this point with bravery. At some point in your career you will get tired, whether it's one specific call or too many, do not lose faith in humanity or yourselves. One small step is movement, be persistent enough to ask for help so you can move forward. You will make mistakes, that’s part of life. Humility allows you to acknowledge you need to change, improve and grow. Trust the process, like you have these past four years and you will do great things.” State Rep. and Double Falcon Michael Kushmerek, who studied criminal justice during his undergraduate years at Fitchburg State, stressed to the graduates to remember the importance of compassion as they enter their careers. MPTC Director of Training Andrea Nardone was also on hand to congratulate the graduates. The members of the 9th ROC and the departments that have hired them include: Class Leader Christian Marsden of Tewksbury (Somerville Police Department), First Squad Leader Collin Dudek of Fitchburg (Framingham Police Department), Jack Rouhana of Walpole (Walpole Police Department), Kole Broderick of Gill (Athol Police Department), and Jonah Sallese of Maynard (Sudbury Police Department). Class Awards: Academic Achievement Award – Kole Broderick Physical Training Achievement Award – Kole Broderick Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC) Award – Collin Dudek Firearms Training (“Top Gun”) Award – Collin Dudek 100 Percent Award – Christian Marsden Click to read in-depth magazine profiles on Dudek and Rouhana. To learn more about the police program, please visit https://www.fitchburgstate.edu/academics/programs/police-program-41-con…

Fitchburg State University announced its schedule of programming for Hispanic Heritage Month, running Sept. 15 through Oct. 21. Aligned with the national theme, “ Unidos, Somos Más. Together, We Are More,” the university’s celebrations highlight the contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities in education, leadership, advocacy and the arts. The monthlong lineup honors the 20 recognized countries and territories, including Spain, Mexico, Colombia, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. All events are supported by the Newman Center Trust Fund and coordinated by the Center for Diversity and Inclusiveness alongside student organizations. “This programming reflects our commitment to fostering a campus environment where every student feels valued and connected,” said Fitchburg State Director of Student Belonging Krysta Lopez-Acevedo. “By engaging in these shared experiences and dialogue, our university community comes together to honor these distinct cultural traditions while building a stronger, more inclusive Fitchburg State.” Schedule of Events: Flag Raising Kickoff: Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2:30–3:30 p.m. at Hammond Plaza — Official kickoff ceremony raising the Hispanic Heritage Month flag. Culture Clash (Meet the E-Boards: ASA, BSU, CASA, LASO): Saturday, Sept. 19, 2:30–6:30 p.m. at Main Quad — Outdoor cookout featuring cultural food, music and student leaders. Piña Colada Making Class : Tuesday, Sept. 22, 3:30–5:30 p.m. at Hammond Main Lounge — Hands-on mocktail workshop on the history and mixology of the island beverage. Bomba Night with LASO: Wednesday, Sept. 23, 6–8 p.m. at Hammond Main Lounge — Interactive Afro-Puerto Rican cultural workshop featuring live drumming, dance and food. CASA Splash & Serve Car Wash: Saturday, Sept. 26, 9 a.m.–noon at 99 Restaurants, 275 Summer St. — Caribbean Student Association fundraiser ($5 minimum donation). Voices of Hispanic Professionals (Faculty & Staff Panel): Wednesday, Sept. 30, 4–6 p.m. at Hammond Main Lounge — Panel discussion on career journeys and leadership. Disney Pixar “Coco” Movie Screenings: Wednesday, Oct. 7, 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Ellis White Lecture Hall — Film screenings celebrating family traditions and Día de los Muertos. Noche Latina: Tuesday, Oct. 13, 5:30–9 p.m. at Hammond Main Lounge — Evening of authentic Latin American cuisine, community and connection. Let's Taco Bout Your Career: Thursday, Oct. 15, 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. at Hammond G-Lobby — Networking event featuring career conversations and themed treats. Sofrito Workshop: Thursday, Oct. 15, 3:30–5:30 p.m. at Hammond Main Lounge — Culinary class teaching the preparation and significance of homemade sofrito. Voices of Hispanic Professionals (Alumni & Community Members Panel): Wednesday, Oct. 21, 4–6 p.m. at Hammond Main Lounge — Panel featuring university alumni and community members sharing professional insights. Fitchburg State is committed to providing a comfortable, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members of our community. If you have access needs or would like to request accommodations to fully participate in these events, please contact cdioffice@fitchburgstate.edu or at 978.665.3701 two weeks in advance of the event. The Hispanic Heritage Month events are made possible by the support of the Newman Center Trust Fund. Every Fitchburg State University event welcomes all members of the university community.

Fitchburg State University has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 NCTE National Intellectual Freedom Award, presented by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and SLATE (Support for the Learning and Teaching of English). Established in 1997, the annual award honors individuals, groups, or institutions that merit recognition for advancing the cause of intellectual freedom and standing against educational censorship. Fitchburg State was selected by a subcommittee of the NCTE Committee Against Censorship for its comprehensive, campus-wide commitment to defending free expression and maintaining equitable access to diverse literature and research. “Intellectual freedom is not just an abstract principle at Fitchburg State, it is a core value woven into our classrooms, our archives, and our engagement with the community,” said Fitchburg State University President Donna Hodge. “At a time when access to diverse stories and vital information faces unprecedented challenges, we are deeply honored to receive this recognition from NCTE. It reflects the courageous work of our faculty, librarians, students, and community partners who stand up every day for open inquiry and the freedom to read.” The university will be honored during the NCTE Annual Convention in Philadelphia from Nov. 19-22. "At a moment when so many institutions are restricting access to diverse stories and perspectives, I am so proud to stand with and represent Fitchburg State University,” said Professor of English Studies Katharine Covino, the faculty member who nominated Fitchburg State. “Our long history as a campus that values and promotes intellectual freedom means that today we are able to continue an empowering tradition of liberatory education, equitable access, and justice-oriented coursework." The university’s selection highlights a broad range of sustained anti-censorship initiatives across faculty, staff, students, and the local community: The university’s Amelia V. Gallucci-Cirio Library leads annual Banned Books Week activities, hosts inclusive community programming like Drag Queen Story Time events, and convened a panel of local public librarians to discuss hyper-local censorship pressures. The library also launched dedicated guides for government data preservation to safeguard open research access. Through the Adult Learning in the Fitchburg Area (ALFA) program, older adults collaborate with undergraduate students to examine challenged literature. Participants analyze historical patterns of censorship using primary sources from the university’s archives, including the papers of local author Robert Cormier, whose novel, The Chocolate War remains a touchstone in discussions on free expression. In spring 2025, the campus launched "Scholars on Tap," a student-led Teach-In addressing censorship, democracy, and information access. Additionally, Fitchburg State faculty have authored 10 open-access, equity-focused textbooks through the grant-funded ROTEL initiative, helping break down financial barriers to learning materials. Pre-service teachers in the English Studies and education departments write and publish book rationales directly for the NCTE anti-censorship database. Communication Law & Ethics students regularly host public forums on censorship, canceled media, and First Amendment rights in partnership with the Society of Philosophers in America. Grounded in a landmark institutional legacy — Antonelli v. Hammond (1970), a U.S. District Court case that protected student press from prior restraint — Fitchburg State students continue to lead on free expression issues. Recently, an undergraduate honors student presented research on middle and secondary school English classroom censorship alongside faculty at the national NCTE conference. By embedding anti-censorship principles across curriculum design, archival preservation, and public forums, Fitchburg State University continues to foster an environment where open inquiry and diverse perspectives are actively defended. 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.

Anything is possible at Fitchburg State University. Fitchburg State President Donna Hodge anchored her third annual State of the University address in the theme of "possibility" on Wednesday, delivering an inspiring speech to students, faculty, staff, and community members gathered in Weston Auditorium. Hodge’s annual address focused on opportunity, strategic choices, and sustainable growth. Grounding her message in the dedication of the campus community, President Hodge outlined how two years of targeted efforts to stabilize leadership, enrollment, and institutional finances have positioned the university to operate from a place of renewed strength rather than crisis. "Year one was grounded in service. Year two was about momentum. And now we begin year three: possibility," said President Hodge. "Possibility isn't wishful thinking, and it certainly isn't a declaration that we've arrived. We have momentum, but we also have real work ahead. What's changed is our capacity to do that work." Her address highlighted institutional success in boosting enrollment of incoming students and improved retention rates for current students. Academic programs have successfully earned renewed accreditation, and students continue to perform well on crucial licensure exams - including a 100% pass rate for nursing students on the competitive NCLEX exam. "Ours is a story about refusing to assume that the current condition of something determines its future," said President Hodge. "This fall gives us the clearest evidence yet that our enrollment trajectory is changing. Our incoming class is already more than 220 students larger than last fall’s class, an increase of 39 percent." Looking ahead, President Hodge called for institutional discipline, emphasizing that future success will rely on prioritizing quality and execution over sheer expansion. "Possibility isn’t permission for us to do everything. It's the responsibility to choose well," said Hodge. "Massachusetts made a choice generations ago rooted in a profoundly democratic idea: Talent is broadly distributed. Opportunity should be, too. That’s the public good of Fitchburg State University." Her address also included the announcement that Fitchburg State has been designated a Purple Heart Campus, expanding upon its success in recruiting and supporting military and veteran students - another rapidly growing population on campus. “Today, less than two years into a new institutional strategy for strengthening recruitment and support for veterans and military-connected families, enrollment among these student populations has more than doubled,” said Hodge, who invited FSU alumnus and veteran Andres Crespo to the stage to read the official proclamation. She also shared that Fitchburg State will receive the National Intellectual Freedom Award this November from the National Council of Teachers of English. Nominated by Fitchburg State faculty member Katharine Covino of the English Studies Department, the award recognizes a university-wide dedication to intellectual freedom across its classrooms, libraries, archives, public programming, and community partnerships. “Intellectual freedom isn’t simply something we’ve chosen to defend in this moment,” said Hodge. “We do choose to defend it, but what’s so special about this recognition is that it’s part of our institutional inheritance.” The event was streamed by FATV and may be viewed online. The university’s start-of-semester celebrations began earlier Wednesday with the new student matriculation ceremony, where new first-year and transfer students formally began their educational journeys. The keynote speaker for the event was 2014 Fitchburg State alumna Red Shaydez — a Boston Music Award-winning hip-hop artist, educator, community activist, and voting member of the Recording Academy. Reflecting on her journey from arriving as an out-of-place transfer student in 2010 to returning as matriculation speaker 14 years later, Shaydez shared how resilience, unexpected support, and adaptability shaped her career. “If there's one thing I hope you take with you this morning, it's this: You don't have to have your entire life figured out today,” said Shaydez. “In fact, I'd encourage you not to put that pressure on yourself. Your major matters. Your goals matter. But your ability to adapt matters, too. The people you meet here matter. The conversations you have matter. The risks you take matter. The moments where someone believes in you matter. And the moments where you choose to believe in yourself matter just as much.” Shaydez went on to tell the students that even when the dots don't connect today, trust that they are still forming a picture. “One day, you'll look back and realize every chapter – even the ones that felt like setbacks – helped shape the person you became,” said Shaydez. “Fourteen years ago, I was sitting exactly where you are wondering what my future would look like. Today, I have the incredible privilege of standing here because Fitchburg State believed in me, challenged me, introduced me to lifelong friends, lifelong mentors, and opportunities that continue to shape my life even now.”

Welcome to a new academic year at Fitchburg State University. To our new students: You are not simply arriving on a campus. You’re joining a community that believes in your ability, your potential, and the future you are here to build. To our returning students: Welcome back to our FSU. You bring experience, energy, and a growing sense of possibility. This university is stronger because you are part of it. And to our faculty, librarians, staff, coaches, alumni, families, friends, and partners: Thank you for creating the conditions in which our students can learn, stretch, stumble, recover, and succeed. A new academic year is full of possibilities. It offers a chance to ask a better question, form an unexpected friendship, discover a new direction, or find the courage to keep going even when the path is difficult. At Fitchburg State, education isn’t something that happens only in a classroom. It happens across our community — and in laboratories, studios, residence halls, libraries, athletic fields, internships, performances, and conversations that change how we see the world and one another. Our first and most important promise is academic. We’re here to provide an excellent education that prepares our students for meaningful work, engaged citizenship, and lives of purpose. But we also make another promise: You will not do this alone. Ask for help. Offer help. Get involved. Take your work seriously, but leave room for curiosity and joy. JOY! Speak to someone you don’t yet know. Try something that challenges you. Remember that growth rarely happens without some discomfort. Most of all, remember this: You belong at Fitchburg State University. Your voice, your story, and your dreams of possibility have a place here. Let’s begin this year with ambition, generosity, and confidence in what we will accomplish together. Welcome home, Falcons. Let’s get to work. Onward! Dr. Donna Hodge President