At UConn Waterbury, students are transforming ideas into action through Ideas + Impact (I+I)—a dynamic learning community that fosters innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership. This initiative provides students with hands-on experience, mentorship, and opportunities to develop projects that create meaningful change on campus and in the greater Waterbury community.
“I+I represents a transformational shift in how we empower students to lead, innovate, and drive impact,” said Fumiko Hoeft, Campus Dean & CAO of UConn Waterbury. “Through this program, students are not only gaining critical skills but also shaping the future of our campus and community.”
Launched as a pilot in Fall 2023 and fully implemented in Fall 2024, I+I was created in response to students’ desire for more experiential learning opportunities. With a focus on problem-solving, collaboration, and leadership development, the program equips students with the skills they need to thrive in their careers while making a real impact.
A Community of Changemakers
I+I is open to all undergraduate students at UConn Waterbury, offering multiple ways to get involved. Through pitch competitions, project development, and networking with alumni and local leaders, students gain valuable real-world experience that extends beyond the classroom.
Participants in I+I can:
- Earn stipends and academic credit for their work
- Develop projects that improve the campus and local community
- Learn design thinking, project management, and entrepreneurship
- Compete for funding to implement their ideas
- Engage with alumni and industry professionals for mentorship and career guidance
“I+I is a space where students take ownership of their ideas, develop leadership skills, and gain real-world experience,” said Heather Price, Director of Community Innovation and a UConn Waterbury alumna. “I am inspired every day by their passion and creativity.”
Student-Led Projects Driving Change
I+I has already led to several student-driven initiatives designed to enhance campus life and connect students with the broader Waterbury community:
A student-led effort that fosters connections between UConn Waterbury and downtown Waterbury through food tours, historical walks, and partnerships with local businesses. Walkbury strengthens the campus-community bond while giving students hands-on project management and event planning experience.
“Walkbury is a fantastic way for students to get involved in the local community,” said Dan Pesce, Director of Main Street Waterbury. “It not only benefits businesses but also helps students see Waterbury as a place where they can thrive and contribute.”
A campus-based professional clothing initiative that provides students with free attire for job interviews, internships, and career opportunities. Students involved in managing Career Closet gain valuable experience in budgeting, marketing, and community engagement while making a direct impact on their peers.
Waterbury Robotics Institute at UConn Waterbury
A collaborative program connecting UConn Waterbury, UConn Storrs Robotics, and Waterbury Public Schools. It was inspired by the vision of State Senator Joan Hartley and State Representative Ron Napoli. Middle and high school students visit UConn Waterbury to prepare for FIRST Robotics Competitions, working alongside UConn undergraduate mentors to develop their technical and teamwork skills.
“Supporting STEM education and robotics in Waterbury is an investment in the future of our students and our workforce,” said Senator Joan Hartley. “Programs like this strengthen our local economy and provide students with invaluable hands-on experience.”
Housing Clinic for Thriving Communities
An initiative that engages students with local affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization efforts. Supported by Connecticut Department of Housing Commissioner Seila Mosquera-Bruno, NeighborWorks President & CEO Tom Cruess, and H.W. Smith Foundation President Kathy Luria, the Housing Clinic is modeled after Yale’s interdisciplinary graduate program.
“Housing is a key factor in community well-being, and it’s exciting to see students tackling real challenges in Waterbury,” said Commissioner Seila Mosquera-Bruno. “This program prepares students to be leaders in urban planning and community development.”
A Structured Pathway to Leadership
I+I offers a structured two-year curriculum designed to equip students with leadership, innovation, and problem-solving skills.
First-year students can enroll in UNIV 1810: Ideas + Impact Learning Community, a one-credit course where they explore innovation, hear from guest speakers, and develop projects that align with their career goals.
Second-year students and above can take EPSY 3020: Peer Mentoring, a three-credit course where they serve as mentors, further develop their leadership skills, and pitch campus improvement projects for potential funding.
“UConn’s investment in experiential learning is a game-changer,” said Abhijit (Jit) Banerjee, AVP of Research, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship, who played a key role in initiating I+I. “This program was born from cross-campus collaboration and reflects UConn’s commitment to preparing students for leadership and impact.”
Alumni Engagement: Michael Peluso’s Support
While I+I is driven by student creativity, campus leadership, and grants from the state and foundations, alumni support has played a key role in its growth. Michael Peluso ’99 (BUS), a UConn Waterbury alumnus, has provided financial backing and mentorship to expand opportunities for students.
A Chief Product & Strategy Officer and experienced entrepreneur, Peluso has returned to campus as a guest lecturer, sharing insights on leadership, technology, and innovation. His contributions have helped fund student stipends, project development, and campus initiatives—ensuring that students have the resources needed to bring their ideas to life.
“Giving back to UConn Waterbury is incredibly meaningful to me,” said Peluso. “This campus played a crucial role in my journey, and I want to make sure that students today have the same opportunities to explore, innovate, and grow.”
The Future of Ideas + Impact
As I+I continues to grow, it is positioning UConn Waterbury as a hub for student-driven innovation and leadership. The program not only enhances students’ academic experience but also prepares them to tackle real-world challenges with confidence. Through Ideas + Impact, students like Aylanie, a junior and I+I Leader, are gaining valuable leadership and marketing experience, developing recruitment strategies for the program. Brenny, a sophomore, is using I+I to launch a research project on harnessing phosphorus for environmental sustainability, working closely with faculty mentors.
“Being part of I+I has been an incredible experience,” said Aylanie Bonilla, a current participant. “It’s given me the confidence and skills to turn my ideas into action and make a difference in my community.”
“Because of support from alumni, such as Michael Peluso, I have been able to focus on my project and extracurriculars without having to worry about financial stressors. These opportunities are extremely beneficial to me and other students, and they are truly life-changing,” said Brenny Alcantara, a current student participant.
Whether through launching community projects, mentoring peers, or competing for funding, students in I+I are gaining the tools and experiences they need to become changemakers in their careers and communities.
For students looking to engage, create, and lead, Ideas + Impact offers the perfect opportunity to turn their ambitions into action.
Additional Sponsors for the various I+I projects: CTNext (now part of CT Dept of Economic and Community Development), Elisha Leavenworth Foundation, ReadyCT, ARPA, H.W. Smith Foundation, and many in-kind contributors.
Contacts: Heather Price, Director of Community Innovation, heather.price@uconn.edu; Alexander Ali, Student Services and Learning Communities Coordinator, alexander.ali@uconn.edu
