Protecting, serving, and thriving right alongside our community!  Today is #PublicServiceDay, and we want to send a massive shoutout to the incredible officers and staff of the Fitchburg State University Police Department! Our campus police are so much more than a department—they are a deeply integral part of our daily university life. From keeping our campus secure to connecting with students, offering guidance, and always being ready to jump into campus activities (even if it means braving the mechanical bull at a campus event! ), they show up for our flock every single day with professionalism and pride. Thank you to our dedicated officers, dispatchers, and staff for your unwavering commitment to our safety, your mentorship, and your constant support of student life. 

Bridging campus life and community engagement. As part of Fitchburg State University's orientation programming, incoming students participate in the "Tour of Fitchburg"—a popular activity designed to introduce our newest Falcons to the cultural, historical, and recreational landmarks of our host city. Led by student Orientation Leaders, the tour included visits to Hollis Hills Farm, the Fitchburg Art Museum, and Coggshall Park. Notably, Coggshall Park was established in 1894, marking a shared, 132-year legacy of community presence alongside the university's own founding year. We are proud to connect our students with local institutions and foster a strong sense of civic pride from their very first week on campus. 

Falcons giving back! One of our favorite orientation traditions is Falcon's Choice, where our newest students get to customize their day by picking two of four awesome activities: Tour De Fitchburg, Fitchburg in the Arts, Wellness, or a Service Project! For the Falcons who chose the Service Project, it was all about immediate impact. They rolled up their sleeves to pack hygiene and laundry kits for our on-campus food and necessity pantry, the Falcon Bazaar. Even better? Representatives from the local United Way, Habitat for Humanity, and Big Brothers Big Sisters were on hand to chat with students about how they can keep the volunteer spirit alive throughout their college careers.  

Investing in community and professional development. Yesterday, our AFSCME members gathered for a dedicated Development Day—a fantastic opportunity for colleagues across campus to connect, network, and strengthen workplace relationships. While the day featured plenty of collaborative moments, the most popular highlights included a dedicated relaxation station and a live caricature artist to bring some lighthearted fun to the afternoon. At Fitchburg State University, we know our institution thrives because of the hard work and dedication of our staff. Thank you to our AFSCME members for all that you do to support our university community! 

“Hey Neighbor, Slow Down. It’s not Johnny AppleSPEED.” MassDOT & Leominster Mayor announced a new public safety campaign, and it has a major Fitchburg State connection! Our Principles of Management students helped create it from concept to media strategy. Read the full story here.

Last week, we were thrilled to host the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Family Engagement Convening in our Hammond Main Lounge. Educators from all across the state gathered to dive deep into what matters most: creating a true sense of belonging for families, championing whole-child learning, and sharing real-world strategies that drive student success. Proud to be a hub where the future of education connects and grows. 

On Saturday, Weston Auditorium was packed for a truly historic moment: Fitchburg Access Television (FATV)  live taping of the final episode of Barbara & You.

The event was an incredible, emotional celebration of 50 amazing years of the show and a beautiful tribute to Barbara Foster’s legendary impact on community television.

Adding to the honors, President Donna Hodge took the stage to read an official commendation from Governor Maura Healey and Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, recognizing Barbara’s remarkable contributions to civic life and public access media. Joined by local dignitaries, coworkers past and present, and her loving family, it was a beautiful afternoon of shared memories and well-deserved standing ovations.

Thank you, Barbara, for being the voice, the heart, and the story of our community for half a century!

Yesterday, the J.A. Leonard Middle School, from Old Town, Maine performed in Weston Auditorium. The band visited Fitchburg State to perform selections where they received valuable feedback from Community Music Program Instructor & Musician Joseph Wright, spouse of Dr. Amy McGlothlin of our Music Department as part of their annual Band Festival Trip. 

As we observe National Police Week, Fitchburg State University extends its gratitude to our University Police Department.

The Amelia V. Gallucci-Cirio Library hosted a Fitchburg State Community Read panel discussion, “A Novel Idea: Rethinking Our Food Systems,” in Hammond Hall’s Main Lounge.