Meriden Resident Receives Ella T. Grasso Award At ECSU

MERIDEN, CT — Meriden’s Eugene Bertrand was one of three Eastern Connecticut State University students to be presented with awards this spring 2024 semester for their commitment to promoting equity and social justice on campus and in the community.

Bertrand, a senior who majors in Elementary Education and History, received the Ella T. Grasso award.

The award is given annually to a student who pushes for systemic change while encouraging others to do the same, according to a news release.

“Bertrand is a first-generation American and an honors student at Eastern,” according to the news release. “He's worked as an RA and the head student orientation counselor. He has also contributed to various administrative offices on campus. During his first semester at Eastern, Bertrand spearheaded the ‘Real Talk: Speak Up for the Culture’ series, igniting crucial dialogues on social justice issues impacting college students. He recently sponsored a Black history program featuring June Archer to foster resilience and persistence among underrepresented populations on campus.

“Beyond Eastern, he has committed more than 1,500 hours to community service across Connecticut and played a pivotal role in crafting Legislative Bill SB-1022, aimed at fortifying minority teacher recruitment.”

He will continue his commitment to serving others while attending Columbia University, pursuing a master's degree in social work.

"Witnessing my parents' struggles ignited a fire within me to break barriers and champion progress," Bertrand said. "My legacy is rooted in their resilience and their steadfast belief in education. Guided by the wisdom of my upbringing, I want to inspire future generations to utilize the power of education to develop resilience, forging a brighter, more equitable future for all."

Education Professor David Stoloff said, "Eugene is dedicated to pursuing equity and justice on campus and across the state. From his first days at Eastern, he has been active in social justice initiatives here and in the Willimantic community."