University of Bridgeport (UB) has signed a partnership agreement with Waterbury Promise, a not-for-profit college access, success, and career readiness program offering scholarships and ongoing support for Waterbury Promise students accepted to UB beginning this fall.
UB will offer students a renewable scholarship of up to $25,000 to help reduce financial barriers by reducing the cost of a college education and expanding access to a UB degree. Waterbury Promise’s mission is to increase college aspirations, reduce financial barriers, and inspire every student in Waterbury toward postsecondary education and completion.
Waterbury Promise helps clear the pathway to a college degree through a range of initiatives, including FAFSA support and workshops, college tours and guidance, professional development opportunities, mentorship and advising, and up to $20,000 total ($5,000 per year) as a last-dollar scholarship. With the goal of empowering students by strengthening their college readiness and long-term career success, this partnership opens doors from college to career for students in the Greater Waterbury area.
“At UB, we believe that talent is everywhere, and opportunity should be too,” said Allison Garris, Ed.D., UB’s dean of admissions. “This partnership creates an affordable pathway to a UB education for students from Waterbury. We’re proud to welcome Waterbury Promise scholars and to support them as they build confident, career-ready futures.”
Dr. Garris and Kelonda Maull, executive director of Waterbury Promise, signed the partnership agreement on December 28, 2025. “We are deeply grateful to partner with University of Bridgeport to support talented scholars from Waterbury by expanding access to the financial, academic, social, and career resources essential to their success in higher education and preparation for Connecticut’s next-generation workforce,” said Maull.
Waterbury Promise serves nearly 900 students from seven Waterbury high schools. The class of 2025 consists of 301 scholars and saw an impressive 25% year-over-year increase from the 2024 class. Approximately 68% of scholars are first-generation college students, and 80% are students of color. UB and Waterbury Promise look to build on that growth together through innovative funding and support initiatives that will usher the next generation of leaders and innovators into promising careers throughout Connecticut and beyond.
About Waterbury Promise
Waterbury Promise supports Waterbury students through college access, success, and career readiness programming. To become a Waterbury Promise Scholar, a student must be a Waterbury resident; graduate from a Waterbury public high school, Holy Cross High School, or W.F. Kaynor Technical High School; earn a cumulative 3.0 GPA and maintain a 90% attendance rate; complete the FAFSA; and enroll in an accredited two- or four-year Connecticut-based college or university.
Learn more at waterburypromise.org.
With over 14 years of experience in writing and communications, Abby Levandoski is a seasoned storyteller specializing in highlighting stories that build community. As the communications manager for University of Bridgeport, Abby produces compelling narratives highlighting academic programs, research initiatives, and student success. Her work has earned positive media coverage across print, digital, and TV platforms. Abby holds a master’s degree in education and a bachelor’s degree in political science, bringing a strategic and creative approach to her role in higher education marketing and communications.