Community Impact Award

Post University

At Post University, community service is woven into the institution’s identity. Located in Waterbury, Connecticut, the University views the city not only as its home but also as a partner. Through philanthropy, volunteerism, and innovative educational programs, Post has created a lasting impact on Greater Waterbury while giving students, faculty, and staff meaningful opportunities to serve.

Post University’s philanthropic reach is significant. In 2024, associates raised $317,000 through the Find it in Your Heart campaign for the United Way of Greater Waterbury. Between 2018 and 2024, the University has contributed more than $1.4 million to the United Way, supporting programs across 10 towns in the region. During the 2024 holiday season, faculty and staff also adopted 12 families through the United Way and Salvation Army’s Adopt-A-Family program, providing gifts and support. In addition, Post has sponsored Waterbury’s annual New Year’s Day fireworks since 2020, a tradition launched from Holy Land atop Pine Hill that brings the community together each year.

The University also integrates service directly into its academic programs. Since 2021, students have participated in the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, offering free tax preparation for low- and moderate-income residents after completing IRS certification. Students in the Advanced Accounting course support the United Way by analyzing nonprofit financial statements, budgets, and IRS Form 990s. Their reviews are used by the United Way’s Community Impact Council to inform funding recommendations for 22 nonprofit agencies running 43 programs in Greater Waterbury.

Post’s response during the COVID-19 pandemic further underscores its role as a community partner. In spring 2020, with the campus closed to students, residence halls were opened to house first responders and healthcare workers who could not return home due to exposure risks. In January 2021, Post hosted a drive-thru vaccination clinic in partnership with Waterbury Health, where more than 32,000 vaccines were administered. Students and associates volunteered at the site, assisting with traffic flow and check-ins. Faculty and staff took pride in the University’s contribution to keeping the community safe.

In addition to community service and pandemic response, Post has expanded access to education through innovative programs. In 2020, the University partnered with Waterbury Public Schools to create the Early College High School at Crosby High School. Today, over 200 students are enrolled in the High School Academy, pursuing dual degrees that let them complete an associate degree alongside their high school diploma. Since its launch, 26 students, many of them first-generation, have earned an associate degree before graduating from high school.

Post also provides pathways for students with learning exceptionalities through its University Pathways program, developed in partnership with EdAdvance, a regional education service center. Each year, about 30 students ages 17–22 participate. These students have completed high school requirements but continue to need support with Individualized Education Plan (IEP) goals. The program offers non-degree academic experiences and campus integration that help students build skills, independence, and confidence. Most participants come from districts in Greater Waterbury, with EdAdvance and school districts funding the program.

Together, these initiatives demonstrate Post University’s commitment to building stronger communities while enriching the student experience. By combining philanthropy, service, education, and civic responsibility, the University has created a model that benefits both Waterbury and the students it serves.