WestConn, Smithsonian

Form Partnership

DANBURY — Western Connecticut State University has been named a Smithsonian Institution Affiliate, making the university the only one in Connecticut.

“This is a historic partnership for the university,” WestConn President James R. Roach said. “It is especially satisfying that this event occurs during our Centennial year.”

The partnership will involve opportunities for WestConn students and faculty to engage in research and internship programs. It also provides for WestConn faculty to travel to the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC, for special training and exposure to Smithsonian research.

Another exciting aspect of the program is the prospect for WestConn to bring traveling Smithsonian exhibits to Connecticut.

WestConn’s affiliation with the Smithsonian developed from the university’s partnership with Ruth and Skitch Henderson, principal partners of The Silo at Hunt Hill Farm in New Milford. The WestConn/Silo partnership allows the university to present cultural programs at The Silo.