2 College Students At West Hartford School Complete Program With WNBA Team

WEST HARTFORD, CT — Two University of Saint Joseph students recently completed the Connecticut Sun's "Change Can't Wait Fellowship," a nine-month leadership development program focused on social justice, advocacy and community leadership.

Gabriella Borruso and Kiatyanna Denmark, both members of the University of Saint Joseph's Class of 2027 and students in the West Hartford university's Criminal Justice and Restorative Justice Program, participated in the fellowship.

The program is facilitated by the Tow Youth Justice Institute at the University of New Haven and Our Piece of the Pie Inc., in partnership with the Connecticut Sun WNBA organization.

It is designed to prepare emerging leaders through educational programming, mentorship, community engagement, and hands-on learning experiences.

During the fellowship, Borruso and Denmark worked with community leaders, policymakers and youth advocates while developing capstone projects addressing social justice issues affecting Connecticut communities.

The fellowship concluded June 5, when participants presented their projects at the Connecticut Legislative Office Building before state legislators, community stakeholders, and fellowship partners.

"Gabriella and Kiatyanna have demonstrated exceptional leadership, compassion, and a genuine commitment to advancing justice in their communities," said Dr. John Watts, director of the University of Saint Joseph's Criminal Justice and Restorative Justice Program.

"Their work exemplifies the Sisters of Mercy tradition by promoting justice, compassion, service, and respect for the inherent dignity of every person," Watts said. "We are proud to see them transform what they have learned in the classroom into meaningful action that has the potential to create lasting change throughout Connecticut."

The University of Saint Joseph said its Criminal Justice and Restorative Justice Program emphasizes experiential learning, restorative practices, ethical leadership, and community engagement.

The program prepares students for careers in criminal justice, public policy, nonprofit leadership, victim advocacy, and community-based organizations.