Transforming Automotive Education at New Britain High School
The automotive industry is rapidly evolving with advancements in technology, including electric vehicles (EVs), advanced diagnostics, and automation. To ensure students acquire the high-demand skills required for lucrative careers in this field, New Britain High School is embarking on a comprehensive upgrade to its auto mechanics shop. This initiative will enhance hands-on learning opportunities, foster innovation, and align the program with the standards of high-skills, high-wages, and in-demand jobs.
The Academy of Manufacturing, Engineering, & Technology (MET) at New Britain High School is designed to create a best-in-class manufacturing academy program. The MET Academy aims to develop a skilled talent pipeline to support the current and future workforce needs in New Britain and the surrounding area through pre-apprentice and apprenticeship programs. By integrating STEM experiences and project-based learning, the MET Academy provides students with opportunities to engage in hands-on activities that mirror the real-world manufacturing, engineering, and technology industries.
Previously, the MET Academy successfully upgraded the Technology Wing at New Britain High School, incorporating the latest machinery and technology for practical, in-class education. This upgrade has already made a significant impact, preparing students for high-demand, high-paying careers in modern manufacturing.
The success of this initiative demonstrates the MET Academy’s commitment to providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the workforce.
The modernization of equipment for the automotive department will involve upgrading tools, diagnostic machines, and repair technology to reflect industry standards. Emerging technologies will be integrated, including EV training modules, hybrid vehicle diagnostic tools, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) training. Safety and efficiency will be enhanced by improving ventilation, installing ergonomic workstations, upgrading floors, walls, ceiling tiles, and lighting, and enhancing shop organization. Training capabilities will be expanded to provide access to industry certifications, work-based learning experiences, simulated workplace environments, and partnerships with local automotive businesses. Sustainability and green initiatives will be introduced, such as energy-efficient lighting, recycling programs, and eco-friendly automotive repair practices.
Facility improvements will include epoxy treatment of the shop floor and installation of vinyl composition tile in the adjacent classroom, painting of walls and ceiling tiles, improved lighting and ventilation, replacement of garage doors and exterior/interior doors, and expansion of workspace to accommodate more students and vehicles. Technology and equipment investments will involve purchasing state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and software for modern combustion, hybrid, and electric engines, acquiring hybrid and electric vehicle trainers, and integrating augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) training simulators.
Curriculum and training enhancements will include developing courses aligned with ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) and NATEF (National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation) standards, hands-on training partnerships with automotive dealerships and service centers, and industry-led workshops and certification opportunities for students.
The expected outcomes of this initiative include increased student employability in high-skill, high-wage positions, enhanced student engagement through access to cutting-edge technology, improved student readiness for ASE certification exams and other industry-recognized credentials, greater exposure to career pathways in emerging automotive fields, including electric and autonomous vehicles, development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills through real-world, hands-on training, increased post-secondary enrollment in automotive and technical education programs, alignment with the latest state CTE standards and workforce demands in the modern automotive industry, and strengthened partnerships with local businesses and post-secondary institutions.
The Community Foundation of Greater New Britain (CFGNB) is committed to supporting this vital initiative. We invite you to join us in making a difference by contributing to the modernization of New Britain High School’s Auto Mechanics Shop. Your donations will directly impact the future of our students, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers in the automotive industry. Your generous support can help us achieve the modernization of equipment, integration of emerging technologies, enhancement of safety and efficiency, expansion of training capabilities, and promotion of sustainability.
Donate Today to support the future of automotive education and help us build a brighter tomorrow for students.
Community Foundation Relocates Foundation Directory Online to New Britain Public Library
New Britain, CT, April 1, 2025 – The Community Foundation of Greater New Britain is pleased to announce that its Foundation Directory Online resource has moved from its office to the New Britain Public Library. This transition enhances accessibility, making New Britain the eighth library in the region to offer this powerful grant-seeking tool.
Since 2018, the Foundation Directory Online has been a key part of the Foundation’s Nonprofit Capacity Building program, helping nonprofits and individuals identify funding opportunities. Previously limited to Foundation office hours, the directory will now be available on over 20 library computers during all regular library hours, significantly expanding access. The New Britain Public Library, located at 20 High St, New Britain, CT, is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Friday and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and closed on Sundays.
“This expansion of availability for this important resource, through this partnership with the Library, is exactly what we hoped for in allowing more nonprofit organizations and individuals to access this tool at a point in time when nonprofits need more assistance to serve their constituents in our communities,” noted David Obedzinski, President of the Community Foundation. “Our Foundation will continue to pay for the annual fee required for this service, a tool that is usually out of reach for many groups because of the cost.”
The Community Foundation extends its gratitude to New Britain Public Library Director Viktor Sjöberg for his willingness to maintain the Foundation Directory Online onsite.
Director Sjöberg explains the benefits of this partnership, “Making the Foundation Directory Online available through the New Britain Public Library speaks to the visionary leadership The Community Foundation is known for. Having the resource available through our public computers and WiFi, we have removed barriers to access for young people looking for scholarships as well as non-profit organizations seeking new funding sources. By using the Foundation Directory Online, they are able to find grants and scholarships that will improve the lives of New Britain residents. We are thrilled to be a part of this!”
Viktor’s support will undoubtedly increase the resource’s reach and impact in the community.
“We are grateful to Director Sjöberg and the New Britain Public Library for partnering with us to make this important tool more accessible to everyone in the area,” added Joeline Wruck, Director of Grants and Initiatives. “This collaboration will strengthen nonprofit efforts, support individual grant seekers, and contribute to the overall growth and success of our community.”
The Foundation Directory Online and Guidestar, also included, provide essential resources for nonprofits and individuals seeking funding and connections. Foundation Directory helps users find funding faster by offering access to over 298,000 grant makers, allowing them to build robust prospect lists and identify funders who are more likely to provide support. Through LinkedIn integration, users can connect with key decision-makers and discover collaboration opportunities with other nonprofits. It also offers access to scholarships, fellowships, and grants for individuals, including 900+ RFPs.
The Foundation Directory Online at the New Britain Public Library is now available. For more information on how to access the Foundation Directory Online at the New Britain Public Library, visit https://learning.candid.org/training/introduction-to-foundation-directory/
The Community Foundation of Greater New Britain inspires philanthropy, responsibly manages permanent charitable assets, and partners to address key community issues through strategic leadership. Our vision is to make our community vibrant and a better place to work and live. For more information email jwruck@cfgnb.org
The Community Foundation of Greater New Britain is pleased to announce an opportunity for local residents to come together and make an impact in their community. Now entering its 23rd year, membership for Catalyst 2025 is open. The Catalyst Giving Circle membership offers a chance for citizens to join others in the community, including their family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers, to socialize, enjoy refreshments, and learn about community needs in Berlin, New Britain, Plainville, and Southington. It transforms a modest gift into significant community impact, turning everyone into a philanthropist. (will people know what this means to be turned into a philanthropist)
Catalyst members meet three times a year to enjoy a light meal and discuss a member-chosen issue facing their community. Members then review funding requests from charitable organizations addressing that issue and select a grant recipient to receive up to $20,000. Over its 22 years, Catalyst Fund members have awarded over $247,000 to various programs addressing critical needs and challenges in the community. First-time “Discovery” members can join with a gift of $50 for their first year of membership; this increases to $250 following the first year. A “Business” membership is $250 and offers local businesses the opportunity to involve their employees in local philanthropy.
Catalyst members have tackled a wide range of community challenges, including homelessness for area families with children, addressing mental health issues in schools and families, repairing the homes of veterans in need, preparing non-college-bound students for post-high school success, expanding services for senior citizens, and improving literacy. Catalyst members embrace the challenge of coming together, learning about important community issues, and making a tangible impact by awarding an annual grant.
For 2025, Catalyst will focus on Supporting the Needs of Unsheltered Populations. Unsheltered individuals face numerous challenges, including limited access to basic necessities, healthcare, and stable housing. Without these essential support systems, transitioning to independence and improving life outcomes becomes extremely difficult. By exploring and supporting programs designed to assist the unsheltered population, Catalyst members will make a significant and meaningful impact in the community.
The first meeting of 2025 will take place on June 25 at The Back Nine Tavern at Stanley Golf Course, 245 Hartford Road, New Britain, from 5:30-7:30. It will feature presenters who will provide a deeper look at issues related to this topic and educate members on ways a Catalyst fund could make an impact. Anyone can participate in the first meeting to learn more about Catalyst. The second meeting will take place on September 17 at the Hospital of Central CT New Britain Campus, 100 Grand Street, New Britain – lecture rooms 1 and 2 from 5:30-7:30, where members will hear from organizations applying for the grant to address the topic. The final meeting date is November 19 at Shuttle Meadow Country Club, 51 Randecker Lane, Berlin, CT from 5:30-7:30, where members will vote on the grant award and hear from last year’s grantee. All meetings feature a light supper.
A social event will also take place on May 20, 2025, at East Side Restaurant Beer Garden, 131 Dwight Street, New Britain, from 5:00-7:30, where members can socialize and those interested in Catalyst can attend to learn more about it.
For more information, please contact Joeline Wruck at jwruck@cfgnb.org or 860- 229-6018, ext. 307.
Katie Smith Memorial Scholarship
The Katie Smith Memorial Scholarship was created in memory of Katie Smith, a long-time resident of Windsor. She was a joyful woman who believed in fairness, kindness, and generosity, Katie took the greatest pleasure in including others and helping them achieve their dreams. Katie was married for 29 years to Malcolm Smith, who attended Wethersfield schools from kindergarten through high school.
Each year a scholarship will be awarded to graduating senior from Wethersfield High School and from Windsor High School. To be eligible for a scholarship, the student will be a graduating senior who has been accepted by a four-year college or university in the State of Connecticut. Preference will be given to those pursuing a degree in education, social work, nursing or other professional certification.
The Society of St. Jean Baptiste Scholarship and Charitable Fund
The Society St. Jean Baptiste, a cornerstone of New Britain’s French community since 1901, has embarked on a new chapter. The club, once a vibrant social hub for French men from Maine and Canada who settled in Connecticut, became a pillar of community support, participating in parades and events like Main Street USA.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the club’s membership, ultimately leading to the tough decision to sell the property. This raised an important question: how to honor St. Jean’s legacy and make a lasting impact with the proceeds?
Legacy and Preservation
To ensure the Society’s memory endures, members Gary Leclerc and Mark Morin established both the St. Jean Baptiste Scholarship Fund and the Society St. Jean Baptiste Charitable Fund at the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain. These funds will honor and remember the Society while continuing its mission of community support and educational assistance.
St. Jean’s representative, Mark Morin, shares, “We wanted the society to be remembered in future years.” He elaborates on the benefits of this partnership, “We made a decision to join the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain so that under the Society name, we can continue supporting agencies in and around New Britain. Also, a separate fund has been created to support scholarships to help students where needed.”
Scholarship
Starting in 2026, one or more scholarships will be awarded to residents of New Britain, Berlin, Plainville, or Southington pursuing a bachelor’s degree or attending technical school, demonstrating financial need, with preference towards students of French descent and/or those studying public safety or emergency response.
Charitable Fund
The St. Jean Baptiste Charitable Fund is also planning to award grants in 2026 to support nonprofits in the community, including Berlin Upbeat, New Britain Youth Museum at Hungerford Park, Klingberg Family Centers, Prudence Crandall, Inc., Boys & Girls Club of New Britain, Friendship Service Center, Inc., Trinity-on-Main, Ltd., Connecticut Breast Health Initiative, Plainville Community Food Pantry, and Bread for Life.
Impact
This partnership not only preserves the rich history of St. Jean’s but also extends its mission of community support and educational assistance for future generations. We are excited about this new chapter and the positive impact it will have on New Britain.
Make a Lasting Impact Like St. Jean Baptiste!
You have the power to preserve your legacy and make a significant difference. Start a fund with us for $5,000 or establish a scholarship with $25,000!
Community Foundation President to Retire After Forty-Year Nonprofit Career
New Britain, CT, January 11, 2025– The Board of the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain has announced that David J. Obedzinski, the Foundation’s President and CEO since 2017, will retire effective December 31, 2025.
During his tenure the endowment of the Foundation, which is comprised of hundreds of charitable funds and scholarships stewarded by the organization, has grown from $45 million to more than $70 million.
Obedzinski joined the Foundation as its President in August 2017 and quickly introduced several new initiatives that have become central to the programs offered to the Greater New Britain area. These initiatives include capacity-building training for nonprofits, opportunities for young professionals to learn about philanthropy, the creation of a disaster response fund, a degree completion initiative at CCSU to assist upper-class students, and a revitalized Catalyst Giving Circle, alongside longstanding early childhood education programs.
“I’m especially proud of our Foundation team and our board for their strong and steady support of initiatives that have made an immediate and lasting impact in Berlin, New Britain, Plainville, Southington, and beyond,” said Obedzinski. “The generous donors, who, with every charitable fund trusted to us, make us stronger and able to make a greater impact, are the beating heart of our Foundation. I am grateful to all of them, past and present, and to all of those in our communities who I have had the pleasure of working with for the betterment of the more than 200,000 people who live or work in our primary service area.”
Over the past seven years under President Obedzinski’s leadership, over 90 new funds and scholarships have been established by individuals, families, and organizations. The Foundation has awarded over $1,900,000 in scholarships to students and more than $13,000,000 through over 1,000 grants to our nonprofit partners, addressing the needs of the communities we serve. The Foundation has consistently achieved a Platinum rating from GuideStar and has built the most diverse board of directors in its history.
“Dave has been an outstanding leader for the Foundation,” said Adam Salina, outgoing Board Chair, “He strengthened the visibility of this organization during his tenure and made it more relevant within the communities we serve. Dave’s legacy will be reflected in the millions of dollars that he cultivated for the foundation which will result in additional scholarships and grants distributed throughout our region. We are eternally grateful for Dave’s accomplishments, which have made the Foundation stronger and more sustainable for the future.”
Obedzinski has worked in nonprofit organizations and fundraising for more than forty years. He has worked for the U.S. Coast Guard Academy Alumni Association, at the Hospital of Central Connecticut at New Britain General, Southern Connecticut State University, The Easter Seal Society of Connecticut, as well as the University of Hartford and Hofstra University.
Locally he is a Rotarian and an Elk member who plans to stay involved with both organizations. Obedzinski has been actively serving in the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary since 2012 and plans to continue and possibly expand that work in retirement. His retirement plans, while still being formed, may also include consulting with nonprofits, teaching, and travel with his wife Linda while they continue their association with the Foundation in the Catalyst Giving Circle and with the Obedzinski Family Charitable Fund they established several years ago.
The Foundation’s current Board Chairperson, Janis Jerman, will lead a committee this year that will handle the search for a new President.
“Dave set a very high bar for the Foundation’s leadership,” said Janis Jerman, the newly elected Board Chair. “The Board is committed to recruiting and retaining a successor who will continue this strong momentum.”
Established in 1941, the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain is “Where Good Begins” in Berlin, New Britain, Plainville and Southington. The Foundation works to inspire philanthropy, responsibly manage permanent charitable assets effectively, and partner to address key community issues through strategic leadership. For more information or to support CFGNB’s work, visit www.cfgnb.org.
Over $350,000 in Scholarships Available at
Community Foundation of Greater New Britain
New Britain, Conn., January 15, 2025 – Applications for awards totaling over $350,000 in scholarship dollars are now available through funds managed by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain (CFGNB). The deadline for scholarships managed through the Foundation’s online portal are due by 11:59PM on Sunday, March 16, 2025.
Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors in New Britain, Berlin, Plainville, and Southington. Select scholarships are available to students in Farmington, Newington, Wethersfield and beyond. A handful of scholarships are also available to local students already enrolled in higher education. Students are encouraged to speak with their guidance counselor regarding scholarship opportunities.
The Community Foundation awarded 90 scholarships from over 55 separate donor-established funds totaling over $350,000 to support students in the community as they pursue higher education.
To learn more about our scholarship program and access our online application portal, please visit our website: www.cfgnb.org/scholarships
Questions should be directed to Candice Tabone, Community Impact Officer, via email: ctabone@cfgnb.org.
If you are interested in establishing a scholarship with the Foundation you can request our Funds Booklet by calling 860.229.6018.
Established in 1941, the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain is “Where Good Begins” in Berlin, New Britain, Plainville and Southington. The Foundation works to inspire philanthropy, responsibly manage permanent charitable assets, and partner to address key community issues through strategic leadership. For more information, visit www.cfgnb.org.
Community Foundation of Greater New Britain Announces 2025 Capacity Building Offerings for Non-Profit Organizations
NEW BRITAIN, January 9, 2025 — The Community Foundation of Greater New Britain (CFGNB) is excited to announce an expanded series of workshops and resources for nonprofit organizations in 2025. These offerings are designed to support operations, build capacity, and enhance infrastructure for nonprofits based in or serving Berlin, New Britain, Plainville, and Southington.
The 2025 Capacity Building Workshop Series will feature a variety of in depth, hands-on training sessions. These workshops are free of charge, with the exception of the Grant Mastery Training and The Leadership Experience.
The Grant Mastery Training will take place over two full days on February 25 and 26, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm at the Doubletree by Hilton in Bristol. Trainers Scot Scala and Cyndi MacKenzie, both Grant Professionals Certified and Grant Professional Approved Trainers, will cover topics such as ethics, research/prospecting, proposal development, demonstrating impact, budgets, and federal grants. This training is ideal for development staff, Executive Directors, or volunteers involved in grant writing. The fee for this training is $75 per person, and breakfast and lunch are included. This workshop is being offered in partnership with the Main Street Community Foundation and with funding from the American Savings Foundation and the Farmington Bank Community Foundation.
Fundraising for Small Shops will include three sessions. Session 1 on March 14, from 9 am to 4 pm, will cover the Art and Science of Fundraising, Acquiring, Retaining and Upgrading Donors, and Managing Events for Greater Donor Engagement. Trainers John Brooks and Sharon Danosky from Danosky & Associates, and Paul Dunne from The Nonprofit Group, will lead the sessions. Session 2 on March 20, from 3 pm to 6 pm, will focus on Major Gifts Base Level: Engaging Donors and Major Gifts Advanced: Getting to Yes. Session 3 on March 26, from 3 pm to 6 pm, will discuss The Board’s Role in Fundraising and The Fundraising Plan: Pulling It All Together.
Staff Training will include several workshops. Working with Diverse Teams will be held on April 4, from 9 am to 4 pm. Trainer Stacie Watson from Transformative Leadership Services will cover topics such as DEIB, LGBTQI+, Generational Competency, Unconscious Bias, and Neurodiversity. Building a Culture of Balance will take place on April 24, from 9 am to 12 noon. Participants will explore their relationship with the idea of balance and create a plan to infuse their organization’s culture with work-life harmony. Balance is a ‘Verb’: The Real Truth about Self-Care will be held on May 14, from 9 am to 12 noon. Trainer Alicia Davis will discuss mindset, boundaries, guilt, and self-compassion in creating a balanced life. Healthy Approaches to Managing Conflict will be offered on September 18, from 9 am to noon. Participants will explore various approaches to handling conflict situations.
Data Workshops will include Intro to Data: Build Your Data Literacy on May 6, from 9:30 am to noon. Trainer Jackie Vancour will help participants feel more confident working with data and understanding data literacy. Share What Matters: Become a Data Storyteller will take place on June 3, from 9:30 am to noon. Participants will learn how to create clear and compelling data stories. Explore Public Data: Find the Data You Need will be a virtual session on June 18, from noon to 1 pm. This workshop will provide an overview of public data available for use.
The TLS Leadership Experience (TLE) is a 22-hour leadership development program that combines group coaching and individual coaching sessions. This program is designed for managers, directors, vice presidents, team leaders, and other high performers. The cost per participant is $475 after a CFGNB subsidy. Dates and location are to be determined.
The Consultant Support and Mini Grant Program will provide up to $2,000 in funding for non-profits participating in the Capacity Building Program. This funding can be used to hire consultants or implement small capacity-building projects.
Nonprofit organizations can apply for workshops and funding by visiting 2025 workshops and application or navigating to cfgnb.org and clicking the “Capacity Building for Nonprofits” page under the heading menu, “Nonprofit Resources.” From there, click the link, “2025 Workshops and Application.” The priority registration deadline is January 15, 2025; registration will remain open until workshops fill to capacity.
For more information and to apply, visit CFGNB Capacity Building for Nonprofits or contact Joeline Wruck at 860-229-6018 ext. 307 or jwruck@cfgnb.org.
About CFGNB: Established in 1941, the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain is dedicated to inspiring philanthropy, managing charitable assets, and addressing community issues through strategic leadership. For more information, visit www.cfgnb.org.
Celebrating Giving Brewsday: Looking Back and Ahead to 2025
Giving Brewsday connects people with local nonprofits each year on Giving Tuesday, the National Day of Giving to enjoy free food, delicious beer, and meaningful connections. At the event, you’ll receive a Giving Passport listing all the participating nonprofit organizations. Visit each table, meet the representatives, and collect stamps along the way. Fill your passport and you’ll be entered to win fun prizes!
Save the Date for 2025!
This year, on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, we are thrilled to host our FREE Giving Brewsday event at 5Cb (formerly Five Churches Brewing), 193 Arch Street, New Britain, open from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Whether you give financially or through your time and talents, your involvement is what truly strengthens our community.
Looking Back: 2024 Record-Breaking Attendance
New Britain, CT – December 3, 2024 – Over 100 community members gathered at Five Churches Brewing to celebrate Giving Brewsday. This special evening featured ten local nonprofits, including:
- Berlin Equity Action Team (BEAT)
- Literacy Volunteers of Central CT
- Giving Back Food Pantry
- YWCA of New Britain
- Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC) of New Britain
- Senior Transportation Services
- Klingberg Family Center
- RAIN Collective
- Human Resources Agency (HRA) of New Britain
- New Britain Youth Museum
Giving Brewsday highlights the incredible work of local nonprofits and encourages attendees to contribute their time, treasure, and talent. The event also provides an opportunity for community members to learn more about how they can make a positive impact.
Special guest Richard Vardanian shared his moving story of starting a fund in honor of his late wife, Chun Mei. His designated charitable fund supports Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives at CFGNB, the Asian Pacific American Coalition of CT, and UConn Health—an inspiring reminder that giving is about honoring loved ones and creating lasting impact.
Reflecting on the event, Kaylah Milligan, Director of Philanthropy at CFGNB, noted:
“At its core, Giving Tuesday serves as a reminder that philanthropy is accessible to everyone. Whether dedicating time to a cause or contributing financially, each of us can make a meaningful impact in our way. Five Churches Brewing continues to create a welcoming space where community members can connect and organizations can provide opportunities to get involved. We can only hope to surpass this year’s record-breaking attendance at our ninth Giving Brewsday celebration on December 2, 2025!”
The Community Foundation of Greater New Britain (CFGNB) is dedicated to making New Britain, Plainville, Southington, Berlin, and the surrounding areas better places to live and work. As we embrace the season of giving, we encourage individuals to consider starting a fund for as little as $5,000. We’ll help grow it in perpetuity, ensuring it benefits the community forever. Individuals can also create pass-through gifts to local nonprofits to support their work.
Mark your calendars for December 2, 2025—join us at 5Cb for food, fun, and philanthropy at this year’s Giving Brewsday!
Community Foundation of Greater New Britain Announces the Dolores and Gary Robinson Scholarship Fund
New Britain, CT, 2024 – The Community Foundation of Greater New Britain is proud to announce the establishment of the Dolores and Gary Robinson Scholarship Fund, created by Dolores Robinson in honor of her late husband, Gary Robinson, a beloved member of the New Britain community who passed away on October 7, 2023. This fund aims to support local residents who demonstrate a commitment to community service by providing financial assistance for those pursuing higher education at accredited colleges, universities, or technical schools. Preference will be given to students seeking degrees in computer science or nursing.
Gary Robinson, who was 81 at the time of his passing, had a rich and varied life marked by a deep commitment to education and community service. Born in Manhattan and raised in The Bronx, he attended Brooklyn Technical High School, where he had some of the best educational experiences of his life. His early involvement in Cub and Boy Scouts led him to become an Eagle Scout, and a family move to Greece sparked his lifelong interest in world travel.
A passionate advocate for technology, Gary became a ham radio operator and worked in various facets of electronics throughout his life. After serving honorably in the New York Air National Guard, he pursued higher education at the University of New Haven and Yale School of Public Health, earning degrees in Industrial and Hospital Administration. His career included significant roles at IBM and as a co-founder of a computer programming consulting firm in New Britain.
Gary was deeply involved in his community, serving as Past President of the New Britain Chamber of Commerce and participating in numerous local initiatives, including Vision New Britain, Trinity-on-Main, and the New Britain Sister City Committee. His legacy of service and leadership continues to inspire those around him.
The Dolores and Gary Robinson Scholarship Fund reflects Dolores Robinson’s desire to honor Gary’s memory by empowering the next generation of leaders who will continue to make a positive impact in New Britain.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants must be residents of New Britain, embodying the community spirit that Gary cherished. Students should be pursuing a bachelor’s degree at an accredited college or university or attending a technical school. Students must maintain an average of C+ or better in their high school career, demonstrating their dedication to academic success. Current college students are required to uphold a minimum semester GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale, showcasing their continued commitment to their educational journey. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate experience in community service, mirroring Gary’s extensive involvement in local initiatives and his passion for giving back. First preference will be given to students pursuing degrees in computer science or nursing (including RN & BSN).
One or more scholarships will be awarded each year, and previous awardees are eligible to apply for scholarships in subsequent years as long as they meet all criteria. Distributions from this fund may be used for tuition, room and board, books, or fees and equipment as required by the college or university. The Dolores and Gary Robinson Scholarship Fund will begin making awards for the 2026-2027 academic year.
Community Foundation’s Impact Officer Candice Tabone comments on behalf of the Foundation, “We are thrilled to welcome the Dolores and Gary Robinson Scholarship Fund to our growing family of over 60 scholarships. Beginning in 2026, this scholarship will be awarded to a New Britain resident who exemplifies Gary’s exceptional dedication to his community. Preference will be given to those pursuing degrees in computer science or nursing—fields that reflect the passions and careers of both Gary and Dolores.”
For more information on how to apply for our scholarships please visit https://cfgnb.org/applying-for-a-grant/. Interested applicants can also inquire with Candice Tabone at 860-229-6018 ext. 302 or via email at ctabone@cfgnb.org.
About the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain
The Community Foundation of Greater New Britain is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in our community through philanthropy, grant-making, and scholarship programs. We strive to empower individuals and organizations to make a positive impact in New Britain and beyond.