Western Connecticut State University And Smithsonian Forge Partnership

DANBURY — Western Connecticut State University was recently named the state’s only affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, a world-renowned cultural center and museum, in Washington, D.C.

“This affiliation is historic and an honor for the university,” said President James R Roach. The merger allows WestConn students to engage in research and internship programs with the Smithsonian. WestConn faculty can also travel to the institution for special training and exposure to Smithsonian’s research. There is also the prospect of bringing traveling Smithsonian exhibits to the state, along with other opportunities.

“We are very excited about this program and thrilled to have this opportunity to join with WestConn,” said Michael Carrigan, Smithsonian’s director of the affiliations program. “We are looking forward to a wonderful partnership.” WestConn’s affiliation with the Silo Gallery at Hunt Hill Farm in New Milford adds to the regional appeal future exhibits can elicit. “We are delighted about the possibility of bringing Smithsonian artifacts to Connecticut,” said Richard J Gerber, WestConn’s vice president of institutional advancement. “This will allow the region to have direct access to Smithsonian displays and exhibitions.”

To learn more about this affiliation, contact WestConn’s Office of Institutional Advancement at 837-8279.