The UConn Foundation today announced that it will receive $500,000 from Travelers spread over the next five years to help cover the cost of room and board for qualified UConn students at the new, 200-bed residence hall on Pratt Street in Hartford.<\/p>\n
This marks a pivotal moment for the UConn Hartford campus, which will offer student housing for the first time when the apartment-style units open in fall 2026. The project involves transforming a former law office into a vibrant, residential community, part of the university\u2019s broader strategy to elevate student education and experiences.<\/p>\n
\u201cThanks to this generous gift from Travelers, more students will have access to our new residence hall, which will have a transformative impact on their education and lives,\u201d says Mark Overmyer-Vel\u00e1zquez, campus dean and chief administrative officer at UConn Hartford. \u201cThe residence hall will serve as a catalyst for learning as well as connecting students to the rich historical, cultural, political, and business resources of our capital city.\u201d<\/p>\n
In a 2023 survey, about 70% of UConn Hartford undergraduates expressed interest in nearby student housing. Many students noted that affordability is crucial, given that most currently reside with parents.<\/p>\n
The new housing initiative aligns with UConn\u2019s vision, alongside state and local leaders, to establish Hartford as a \u201ccollege town\u201d where students play an integral role in the city\u2019s cultural landscape.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur relationship with UConn spans decades, and we are proud to be a part of the university\u2019s efforts in expanding its presence in downtown Hartford,\u201d says Andy Bessette, executive vice president and chief administrative officer for Travelers. \u201cUConn\u2019s dedication to excellence in education is why it was one of our inaugural partners when we started our school-to-career pipeline program, Travelers EDGE, 17 years ago. Together, we are helping to build a brighter future for our city and state.\u201d<\/p>\n