Fitchburg State University Associate Professor of Communications Media J.J. Sylvia IV has been awarded the Fulbright Global Challenges Teaching Award in the theme of Peace and Democracy. Facilitated through a joint partnership between the US-UK Fulbright Commission and COIL Connect, this collaboration enables both educators to redesign their current curricula for Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL), allowing students in the United States and Scotland to engage in shared, cross-cultural classrooms. As a recipient of this award, Dr. Sylvia has been paired with Jo Gallagher, a Lecturer in Teacher Education within the School of Education at the University of Glasgow. "We are immensely proud of Dr. Sylvia for receiving the prestigious Fulbright Global Challenges Teaching Award,” said Fitchburg State University President Donna Hodge. “As an innovative educator, Dr. Sylvia consistently demonstrates how academic research can address complex global issues, and this honor is a testament to the quality and relevance of his work. His achievement brings great distinction to Fitchburg State University." Dr. Sylvia’s course, Data & Society, investigates the application of data across diverse media platforms — such as video games, film production, and visual communication — while interrogating the critical ethical dimensions of representation, privacy, algorithms, and data visualization. Gallagher’s course, Arts for Peace & Democracy, examines how arts-based teaching methodologies can equip future educators to engage students with core concepts of identity, active participation, democratic education, and social justice. “I'm honored to receive this Fulbright,” said Sylvia. “I'm deeply thankful for the robust support I've received from my colleagues at Fitchburg State University that has made this possible. I'm looking forward to my class working with Jo Gallagher and the students in his Arts for Peace & Democracy course at the University of Glasgow, as they will certainly bring their own unique perspectives on democracy shaped by Scotland and its relationship with the United Kingdom.” The Fulbright Program, the United States government’s flagship program of international educational and cultural exchange, offers passionate and accomplished students and scholars in more than 160 countries the opportunity to study, teach, conduct research, exchange ideas, and contribute to mutual understanding. “Dr. Sylvia’s receipt of this prestigious award honors his exceptional pedagogical creativity,” said Fitchburg State Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Franca Barricelli. “By bridging the worlds of technology, philosophy, and human communication, he challenges students to navigate and critique today's most complex ethical and cultural issues. This interdisciplinary COIL course will undoubtedly build a vibrant, transatlantic community of learners, empowering them to analyze how the creative arts and digital media shape public life. The Fulbright not only recognizes Dr. Sylvia’s achievements as a teacher and a scholar, but promises an unparalleled learning experience for his students.” Sylvia’s experience leading the Rhetoric in Greece study abroad course has shown him just how transformative international education can be for students. However, he also recognizes that the steep cost of travel often keeps these opportunities out of reach for many. To bridge that gap, Sylvia views the new virtual exchange as a powerful alternative that democratizes global learning. By collaborating digitally with peers in Glasgow, students can apply their coursework to a broader international context without the financial barrier. Sylvia believes this cross-cultural connection will not only cultivate a more sophisticated global digital literacy but also foster a deeper commitment to civic engagement. Ultimately, by tackling pressing contemporary challenges like disinformation, AI, and ethics together, students will be far better equipped for their future careers. “Collaboration in these courses will allow students to build comfort and competency in distributed teamwork,” said Sylvia. “This experience will directly prepare students for hybrid and global work environments which are increasingly common in media technology, policy, and non-profit sectors. I'm looking forward to working with the Office of International Education, as we learn from this Fulbright-supported experience to build a sustainable COIL program on campus that will benefit students for years to come.” Sylvia holds a Ph.D. in Communication, Rhetoric, and Digital Media from North Carolina State University, an M.A. in Philosophy from The University of Southern Mississippi, and a B.A. in Communication and Philosophy from Mississippi State University. His research explores how media and technology fundamentally shape human identity and society. His interdisciplinary research spans critical investigations into the spread of disinformation, the ethics of generative AI, and the application of posthuman theory to navigate the blurred boundaries between humanity and technology, including projects that utilize virtual reality to foster empathy regarding racial microaggressions.

Fitchburg State University hosted its annual Retired Educators Luncheon on Wednesday in the Falcon Hub, a tradition established in 2011 that honors alumni who have dedicated their lives to the teaching profession. The event serves as a powerful homecoming for the university, celebrating its historic roots as a teachers' college originally founded in 1894. This year’s luncheon, led by Alumni Association President John Garten ‘89, highlighted the university's ongoing commitment to shaping future teachers, celebrating both a rising educator through the Retired Educators Scholarship Fund and a seasoned professional with the prestigious Joel D. Miller Education Award. “We often speak about the ‘Fitchburg State family,’ but in this room, that phrase is a lived reality,” said Fitchburg State President Donna Hodge. “You represent the very foundation of this institution. Since our founding as a Normal School in 1894, we have been defined by our commitment to training the educators who shape our Commonwealth. Your return to campus today is an incredibly powerful reminder that while your formal years of service in the classroom may have concluded, your connection to this university—and your impact on its legacy—endures.” Born out of the annual luncheon, the Retired Educators Scholarship Fund awards a $500 annual scholarship to a deserving education major. The funds are applied directly to the student's account to assist with their academic journey. This year’s scholarship recipient is Kyle Grimard, a Lake Placid, N.Y., native and a dedicated para-educator at the Keystone Educational Collaborative at Ayer-Shirley Regional High School. An avid outdoorsman raised in the Adirondack Mountains, Grimard is working toward achieving prestigious "46er" status by climbing all 46 of the region's high peaks, while indoors he innovatively uses his passions for Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons to enhance student learning in his classroom. Currently enrolled in Fitchburg State's Para-to-Teacher program, Grimard is balancing his summer coursework with his career goals. Upon graduation, Grimard plans to transition into a full-time special education teaching role, with the ultimate goal of continuing his impactful work within the Keystone program. “There’s something really special about people who have spent their life doing the thing you want to do, and finding you to be worthy of the person they support and the person they give money to and help further that goal,” said Grimard. “It’s such a special thing.” The luncheon also served as the stage for the presentation of the Joel D. Miller Education Award. Established in 1955, the award honors the legacy of Joel D. Miller, a prominent Massachusetts state senator, member of the State Board of Education, and one of the three original founders of the State Normal School in Fitchburg. His lasting impact on the campus is also memorialized by Miller Hall, a historic campus building. The award is presented annually to a Fitchburg State graduate who embodies outstanding teaching qualities, distinct originality in the classroom, unselfish devotion to education, and a profound influence for good among their students. The 2026 recipient of this prestigious honor is Linda Alvarez ’22, who completed a master’s in business administration with a concentration in marketing and communications from Fitchburg State, and has been a business and entrepreneurship teacher at the Windham Regional Career Center in Brattleboro, Vt., for the last four years. “I am super proud to have been invited back to Fitchburg State for this award,” said Alvarez. “Education is something that’s so important to all of us, and the recognition that I’ve gotten this year through the Vermont State Teacher of the Year program and the National Teacher of the Year program, awards like this allows me to think about the impact that we can have in talking to people about education and what’s happening now, and how important it is that we’re all working together to make education stronger and better. “Working with young people can be challenging at times, but it’s also very rewarding, most of the time,” said Alvarez. “Days like today are super special because it’s a moment to reflect on all of the things that we do as educators to help people make good decisions, so that they can have better lives.” Alvarez was also named the 2026 Vermont Teacher of the Year. As an online student pursuing her master’s degree, Alvarez anticipated visiting the Fitchburg State University campus for the first time when she was supposed to receive her master’s degree during Winter Commencement in 2022. But due to a significant snow and ice storm in Southern Vermont, Alvarez’s plans to attend graduation, walk the stage and receive her diploma were dashed. She was forced to halt her commute to North Central Massachusetts, missed the graduation ceremony, and eventually had her diploma mailed to her home in Brattleboro, Vt. However, last December, Alvarez got to experience that full-circle moment as she finally set foot on campus and received her diploma directly from President Hodge. For more information about Fitchburg State University, please visit fitchburgstate.edu.

Fitchburg State President Donna Hodge has announced the students who qualified for inclusion on the Dean’s List and President's List for the Spring 2026 semester. A student is placed on the Dean’s List for the semester if an average grade of 3.20 or better is attained, and the student is attending the university full time. View the Spring 2026 Dean's List. The President’s List honors students for consistently high academic achievement. A student is named to the list after achieving a 3.75 average in each of three successive semesters. View the Spring 2026 President's List.

Fitchburg State University is opening its campus to the public for its annual Summer Series, a month-long lineup of free, family-friendly events designed to bring joy, connection, and creativity to the heart of the city. Following the success of last year's inaugural series, the 2026 season promises an expanded roster of entertainment and community gatherings. Kicking off Thursday, July 9 at 8 p.m. with a special screening of Hamilton, the Movie on the Main Quad in the center of campus, the series will continue every Thursday evening through July 30. “Fitchburg State belongs to this city,” said Fitchburg State University President Donna Hodge. “We are proud to be a community partner, and this series is our way of inviting our neighbors to make the most of this beautiful shared space. Whether you’re here for a movie, live music, or a laugh with friends, we want you to feel at home. This campus is yours, too.” Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and picnic-style setups to enjoy the open-air festivities. A selection of light refreshments and snacks will be available for purchase, sold by Chartwells Dining, university athletic teams and clubs, with proceeds directly supporting student activities. In the event of inclement weather, the festivities will transition into Hammond Hall’s Main Lounge. Summer Series 2026 schedule: Thursday, July 9 – Outdoor Movie: Hamilton, the Movie (8 p.m.) Gather on the Main Quad with a blanket or lawn chair to celebrate our nation’s historic 250th birthday with a cinematic screening of the award-winning musical phenomenon. Thursday, July 16 – A Night of Live Music featuring The Verge (5:30 p.m.) Experience an energetic, high-octane performance by The Verge, a premier dance-rock party band guaranteed to liven up the Quad. Thursday, July 23 – Kidz Zone Family Night (5:30 p.m.) A magical evening completely dedicated to children and families. Features free pony rides, an interactive petting zoo, a bounce house, and special guest appearances by beloved royalty, including Princesses Belle, Cinderella, Anna, and Elsa. Thursday, July 30 – Classic rock original band, Wheelhouse (5:30 p.m.) Enjoy the classic rock sounds on the Quad. All events are free and open to the public. For more information regarding the schedule or real-time weather-related venue updates, please visit fitchburgstate.edu/events.

The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) has selected Fitchburg State University Associate Provost Jannette McMenamy and 36 other higher education professionals for its Becoming a Provost Academy (BAPA), a program designed to prepare emerging academic leaders for the complexities of the provost role. “We are incredibly proud to see Dr. McMenamy selected for this prestigious national academy,” said Fitchburg State University President Donna Hodge. “Jannette is an invaluable leader here at Fitchburg State University, demonstrating a deep commitment to academic excellence and student success. Her inclusion in the Becoming a Provost Academy is a testament to her vision and dedication, and I know the insights she gains from this program will not only advance her own professional journey but will also continue to elevate our entire academic community.” McMenamy, who has served Fitchburg State in multiple academic and administrative roles over more than two decades, accepted a permanent appointment as Associate Provost in May. Developed in partnership with the American Academic Leadership Institute (AALI), BAPA provides participants with targeted preparation in the key areas that define effective academic leadership. The program is geared toward experienced deans, associate and assistant provosts, and other academic administrators, and focuses on building the capacity required to succeed as a chief academic officer. “We are delighted to welcome such a talented group of leaders to the program. We look forward to working with them this year and to watching as they move forward to continue to strengthen higher education,” said Javier Cevallos, AALI President. Cohort members gain a deeper understanding of institutional priorities while also strengthening their ability to lead in a rapidly changing higher education landscape. Participants engage in peer learning, share perspectives, and build lasting relationships that extend beyond the yearlong program. “It is encouraging to see such a strong group of academic leaders preparing to take on one of the most critical roles at an institution,” said Terry Brown, AASCU’s vice president of academic innovation and transformation. “We’re excited to support this cohort as they continue to grow as leaders and expand their impact within their campus communities.” Since its launch, BAPA has helped advance the careers of numerous academic leaders, with 225 alumni moving into provost positions and 39 progressing to college and university presidencies or chancellorships.