Fall 2026 applications are now being accepted. Class limit is 25.
Immerse yourself in the Connecticut nonprofit sector and gain the skills you need to lead.
Encore Connecticut is a nationally recognized program that assists corporate and public sector professionals transition to opportunities in the nonprofit sector. The Saturday-based program is an attractive option for individuals with varying career goals ― whether you’re seeking immediate employment or planning to change careers in the future.
Fall program begins September 5, 2026.
Contact David Garvey for more information.
Encore Connecticut Alumni Network
A place for Encore Connecticut Alumni to connect, share opportunities, and learn.
About Encore Connecticut
A program with more than a decade of proven success, Encore Connecticut is a professional development experience that helps seasoned corporate and public sector professionals transition their skill-sets and experience into successful opportunities (paid and/or volunteer) in Connecticut nonprofits.
The program is designed to leverage the professional experience of individuals with a variety of career goals:
- Immediate Employment: Immediately move from a corporate or public sector position to a full or part-time nonprofit position
- A Future Transition: If you are currently employed but seeking to move into nonprofit work in the future
- Engaged Volunteering: If you are retiring and looking to make an impact as a volunteer or consultant for nonprofits
Program Details
Encore Connecticut takes place over six full-day Saturdays, providing 40 hours of managerial and professional education in nonprofit leadership, program management, finance, governance, funding strategies, grant writing organizational management, and program outcome measurement.
The program also offers help with job search strategies and resume restructuring, and provides networking opportunities to meet with sector leaders and learn more about the work of their organizations.
Participants learn from and work with seasoned leaders of the Connecticut nonprofit sector. They also gain hands-on professional experience working on a strategic project with a nonprofit organization through a fellowship program.
Meet Some of Our 2025 Graduates
2025 Encore Connecticut Fellow
Career Resources
Baiju is a seasoned corporate executive with over 20 years in senior financial management and strategy roles with Swiss Post Solutions North America, IBM, and General Electric. A child of immigrants and raised in the inner city, Baiju sought a change in direction to bring his skills and experience to work that impacts and engages communities. Baiju is now the Chief Administrative Officer of Career Resources, a nonprofit committed to uplifting individuals and communities through the dignity of work.
2025 Encore Connecticut Fellow
Pro Bono Partnership
Nonprofit Consulting
Seasoned attorney and senior cybersecurity leader for Fortune 500 companies such as Otis Elevator and The Hartford, Diana wanted to change her direction and bring her talents to the work of the nonprofit sector. Diana is moving forward with that goal. Diana has joined the Pro Bono Partnership as a Volunteer Attorney supporting the legal needs of Connecticut nonprofits including Sustainable CT and Windham Preservation Inc., and is building her nonprofit consulting work with such clients as the American Mural Project and Connecticut Science Center. Diana was also elected to the board of She Leads Justice.
2025 Encore Connecticut Fellow
Creative Living Community of Connecticut
Michelle was a Cox Media marketing professional and longtime volunteer and board member of Harc, Inc. a nonprofit strengthening lives of individuals with intellectual and related disabilities. Michelle loved her work with Harc and wanted to pursue that passion and mission full-time. Michelle is now the Executive Director of the Creative Living Community of Connecticut creating a shared, inclusive living experience for individuals with and without developmental disabilities in Connecticut.
2025 Encore Connecticut Fellow
Alliance for Community Empowerment
A seasoned software product leader with more than a decade of experience building and scaling technology platforms across financial services and e-commerce, Alex sought to apply his experience to mission-driven work. Alex currently serves as Accounting Manager at the Alliance for Community Empowerment, a nonprofit dedicated to addressing the paradox of poverty amid abundance and strengthening pathways to financial stability.
2025 Encore Connecticut Fellow
Northwest Region American Job Center
With 25 years experience as a high school social studies and adult educator of which she loved, Cynthia sought a new challenge to work in the nonprofit space in the areas of employment and advocacy. Cynthia is now a Career Navigator for the Connecticut Northwest Region American Job Center, guiding and assisting individuals in their career development.
2025 Encore Connecticut Fellow
Temple Beth Tikvah
A former Peace Corp Volunteer and seasoned corporate and public health professional, Shari wanted to bring her talents to community-focused work. She is now the Communications and Administrative Coordinator at Temple Beth Tikvah in Madison, Connecticut, supporting the congregation and strengthening community connections.
2025 Encore Connecticut Fellow
Family Centers
A marketing and brand strategy executive with over 25 years of experience, primarily in the wine and spirits industry, Lily wanted to pursue her long-standing goal of working with nonprofits focused on social impact. Lily is now fulfilling that goal as the Marketing Manager of Family Centers, a private nonprofit organization offering education, health and human services to children, adults and families in Fairfield County.
2025 Encore Connecticut Fellow
CT Office of the Secretary of the State, Legislative and Election Administration Division
In 2025, Brendan retired from the federal government after 25 years of service, including 17 years as a USAID Foreign Service Officer managing humanitarian and democracy programs in Sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East, and returned to Connecticut. As Brendan states “The mission at home is as real as the mission overseas.” During Encore Connecticut Brendan accepted the role of Director of Development at The Connecticut Democracy Center. Brendan now the Elections Administration Program Manager for the State of Connecticut Office of the Secretary of the State, Legislative and Election Administration Division.
2025 Encore Connecticut Fellow
Pathway Home Employment Case Manager
Throughout her career, Georgann has been advocating for underserved communities as a Certified Community Health Worker. She chose Encore Connecticut to expand her skillsets. Georgeann is now a Pathway Home Employment Case Manager, assisting returning citizens navigate the job market and obtain employment.
Fellowship Program
The Fellowship provides the nonprofit with a highly-skilled professional to manage or develop a project over a two month period. Fellows work to the project deliverable requirements, thus the hours per week will be determinant by the project. Some of our Fellows are currently working full-time and thus will have fewer hours to dedicate to the Fellowship. Other Fellows are currently not employed and will have greater hours and flexibility.
The Fellowship opportunity provides the Encore Connecticut Fellow with practical field experience in the sector and the nonprofit with a with a highly-skilled professional to assist in moving a key project forward. The Fellow will report to you or a member of your staff. We will work with you and your organization’s designated Fellowship supervisor every step of the way to ensure a positive, productive experience from the initial Fellow-to-Organization match to the end of the assigned two-month project.
Host an Encore Connecticut Fellow
Please note Fellows are not assigned to your organization. You will have the opportunity to interview them and determine whether they are a good fit for the project you have described.
Interested in hosting an Encore Connecticut fellow at your nonprofit organization? View our Information and Application page for fellowship hosts.
Tuition: $2,950
Maximum class size: 25
Scholarships
AARP CT Scholarship
Financial support is available for AARP members and individuals over 50. Contact David Garvey for questions and to apply.
Worksforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Funding
100% of your tuition can be covered by WIOA funding if you are currently receiving unemployment benefits. Contact your local American Job Center to see if you qualify.
For questions, please contact David Garvey.
Featured Articles
Learn about the work of Encore Connecticut (formerly known as Encore!Hartford) in the following stories:
Forbes Magazine: Writing New Chapters
Forbes Magazine:Nonprofits…Are You Ready to Make the Switch?
Greenwich Times: Older Jobless Can Create New Careers
Hartford Business Journal: Encore!Hartford Eases Path For Jobless Execs
Hartford Courant: A Career Bridge
New York Times: How to Profit Modestly by Moving to a Nonprofit
New York Times: Nonprofit Work After Retirement? Maybe You Can Make It Pay
Next Avenue: How to Switch From Corporate Work to Nonprofit Work
UConn Today: UConn Expands Program for Careers in Nonprofit Sector
Publications
The program is featured in the following publications:
Encore Network
Founding Member
An international coalition of leaders and organizations promoting fifty forward social enterprise and engagement.
2025 Connecticut Nonprofit Compensation + Benefits Report
Learn about salaries in the Connecticut nonprofit sector.
The application submission review period is on a rolling basis. Candidates are chosen through a competitive vetting and selection process based on their skill-sets and potential for success in the nonprofit sector. A maximum of 25 candidates will be selected for the program.
Enrollment for Fall 2026 is now open.
Candidate Applications
- Candidate Essay: Candidates should address why you want to work in the nonprofit sector. Identify, if possible, your preferred area of work and position in the sector (e.g. social services, the arts, environment or advocacy) and the passions, purpose, and compensation needs and expectations that will impact future. Let us get to know you. Your essay should be no more than three pages.
- Candidate Résumé: Provide your current résumé. If accepted into the program we will work with you in crafting a resume that is tailored to the nonprofit employment job search.
- Submit Application: Forward your essay and résumé as email attachments to Maura Maloney, SPP Operations Coordinator, at maura.maloney@uconn.edu.
Class of 2025 Testimonials
“Embracing a new chapter of our lives, redefining our purpose while shifting our skills. Not only are we learning new skills, but we’re rediscovering what it means to make a difference together.”
~ Christine DeMattia, 2025 Encore Connecticut Fellow
“Completing the Encore Program with all of you has helped me honor the value of my past and confidently turn the page to start this new chapter— knowing I have all of you walking with me.”
~ Michelle M. Joyce, 2025 Encore Connecticut Fellow
“I am deeply grateful for the Encore community I’ve had the privilege of being part of, and for the renewed sense of purpose and direction it has given me as I embark on the next chapter of my career.”
~ Rahul Kanwar, 2025 Encore Connecticut Fellow
“Encore provided a supportive environment, network, and resources. I’m grateful for all of the materials I have to reference in the future, the relationships I made and to all of the interesting presenters. Being around people who have led such purposeful lives devoted to others was inspiring.”
~ Lindsay Kerschner, 2025 Encore Connecticut Fellow
“My Encore journey opened new perspectives across CT, strengthening my leadership, nurturing my curiosity, and deepening my commitment to serve with purpose and compassion. I am expanding my path to walk more closely with our communities. Sharing this journey with Mike (my husband) made it even more meaningful.”
~ Paula M. Maguina Mercedes, 2025 Encore Connecticut Fellow
“The Encore CT Team: the two Daves, Bob, Scott, Tom; my fellow 2025 graduates; and Project Oceanology (my fellowship host) have not only taught me a lot and expanded my contact network but have rekindled my hope inhumanity with their open embrace and compassion – which has been priceless.”
~ Michael ‘Mike” Matthias, 2025 Encore Connecticut Fellow
“Encore pushed me outside of my comfort zone and gave me the confidence, skills, and community to pursue meaningful work with purpose. It was a transformative experience that expanded my perspective and opened doors I never expected.”
~ Alexander C. Sadowski, Jr., 2025 Encore Connecticut Fellow
“Encore has enabled me to leverage my experience and skills in my professional pivot, repositioning myself with credibility in the nonprofit space.”
~ Daniel G. Salazar, 2025 Encore Connecticut Fellow
“Encore and the 2025 Cohort have given me the knowledge, mentorship, and support to pursue my next ambitions. Though this transition is extremely challenging, I find weekly inspiration, growing confidence, and the tools to not only persist but to achieve.”
~ Megan Sesma, 2025 Encore Connecticut Fellow
“I enrolled in Encore feeling unsure of my future, but from Day 1, I knew I belonged. Inspired by extraordinary classmates, instructors, and mentors, I gained clarity, renewed confidence, and purpose. I’m excited to bring this learning into my next chapter serving the nonprofit community.”
~ Kristina M. Wiley, 2025 Encore Connecticut Fellow
“Encore was intense and enlightening. It started at about 100 MPH and went up from there – with applications and interviews for fellowships almost immediately after class began. All of the classes had great speakers and were packed with information, and I was always left wanting to hear more. Also loved hearing questions from my deeply experienced classmates. A great experience!”
Jennifer Proga, Encore Class of Spring 2021
“The Encore Connecticut experience has been intellectually stimulating and has provided me with a unique window into the nonprofit world. The staff, guest lecturers, and everyone associated with the program have been amazing, I would highly recommend this!”
Eric R. Blumenthal, Encore Class of 2020
“How refreshing and inspiring it is to see so many talented people drawn to the cause of helping others through the work of the non-profit sector. Now I know that I have made the right decision in pursuing a nonprofit career!”
Chris Whitney, Encore Class of Spring 2021
“I have learned an incredible amount in such a short period of time. I was able to take what I was learning in class and apply it in real-time to my fellowship.”
Nat Nolting, Encore Class of Spring 2021
“The perfect combination of classroom learning and hands on experience to be able to make an informed decision about entering the nonprofit sector.”
Bruce J. Legan, Encore Class of Spring 2021
“Encore gave me an amazing way to explore future possibilities. From the inspiring speakers to my interesting and productive Fellowship, I’m now convinced that I’m ready for a ‘second act.’ Thank you Encore!”
Sylvia Lecky, Encore Class of Spring 2021
“The Encore program has provided such valuable lessons for the transition from the corporate to the non-profit sector. I have gained deep insight from each topic covered. The program has provided a solid foundation as I start planning for a future role at a nonprofit.”
Deb Lagana, Encore Class of Spring 2021
“Through Encore, I learned new skills and met a great group of likeminded people who generously share their insight and time for the betterment of our community.”
Alan Aleia, Encore Class of 2020
“An enriching experience that offered me a multidisciplinary view of nonprofits and supportive, knowledgeable mentors who provided advice and connections as I explore my next professional role in the sector.”
Michelle Wachsman, Encore Class of 2020
“The Encore program gave me the space to have an authentic learning opportunity with an amazing cohort of fellows from a wide variety of backgrounds. The Encore staff facilitated an energizing and immersive program that helped prepare me for my phase 2.”
Jason Hyland, Encore Class of 2020
“What a wonderful way to learn about the nonprofit sector for either a career change or to focus your volunteer work.”
Laura A. Hecker, Encore Class of 2020
“Encore was a balanced resource. Unique in the delivery and shifting ways while bringing learning experiences that were useful and applicable.”
Marianne Policastro-Wik, Encore Class of 2020
“…I learned that corporate America is very different from the non-profit world, but our skills are definitely transferable. Anyone who wants to learn more about the nonprofit sector should join the Encore Connecticut Program, I highly recommend it!”
Christine A. Fitzgerald, Encore Class of 2020
“Encore: I loved it – It took me WAY out of my comfort zone.”
Thomas A. Gordon, Encore Class of 2020
“The Encore faculty are legitimately top notch. Across the board, they have real-world experience and when teaching; they draw on that experience in useful, applicable, and often humorous ways. I’m deeply appreciative for having this experience and look forward to the many doors that will open because of it.”
Benjamin Oatis, Encore Class of 2020
“The Encore Connecticut program provided an excellent educational experience regarding the operations of nonprofit organizations and a valuable Fellowship experience with a CT-based nonprofit. These two components, along with the opportunity to meet and network with program staff and participants, is helping me achieve my goal of working in the nonprofit sector.”
Mary G. Murano, Encore Class of 2020
“Encore Connecticut provided me with the knowledge I need to embark on a career in the non-profit sector through excellent classroom… learning which was enhanced with the perspectives of non-profit leaders.”
Debra H. D’Arinzo, Encore Class of 2020
“Encore is a great rebooting program! It gives the participant some new technical skills, some new managerial skills, and it imparts wonderful perspective on the philosophies and approaches utilized by nonprofits. The fellowship and job leads provided by the program and Director David Garvey were excellent.”
William W. Cavers, Encore Class of 2020
“For me, the Fellowship was the pinnacle of the Encore program. It gave me ‘real-life’ experience with a non-profit and provided a window into how it operated. I was also lucky enough during my Fellowship to make meaningful contributions to projects that had a direct impact on the State of Connecticut’s COVID-19 recovery plans. It was a great experience!”
John H. Drake, Jr., Encore Class of 2020
“The Encore Connecticut program delivered information at an appropriate level, truly a fast track program enabling experienced business executives to leverage their existing skills and experience in the nonprofit world.”
Bill Tripodi, Encore Class of 2020
“Encore was a very enlightening and educational experience. The level of dedication, commitment and compassion exhibited by the not-for-profit community really opened my eyes and will have a lasting influence on how I view others in need.”
James Mark Ramey, Encore Class of 2020
Curriculum and Courses
All classes are 9:00am – 3:30pm at the UConn Hartford campus (with lunch and refreshments), except for October 3 which will be at Connecticut Foodshare in Wallingford, Connecticut. The Fall 2026 Curriculum is being finalized. View the 2025 Encore Connecticut Curriculum for reference.
| Saturday, September 5 |
Saturday, September 19 |
Saturday, October 3 at Connecticut Foodshare |
Saturday, October 17 |
Saturday, October 31 |
Saturday, November 14 |
Saturday, November 21 |
| Getting to Know One Another | Strategic Partnering | Fund Development | Governance | Nonprofit Accounting | Partnering with Philanthropy | Nonprofit Advocacy |
| Introductions & Orientation | Community & Strategy | Tour & Volunteering | Community & Partners | State of Equity in the Nonprofit Sector | Philanthropy Roundtable | Lobbying |
| Meet Alumni | Government Relations | Nonprofit Communications | Leadership | CEO Roundtable | Telling Your Story | |
| 1 on 1 Nonprofit Resume Development | Your Encore Connecticut Nonprofit Fellowship | |||||
More details coming soon regarding the Encore Connecticut graduation program which will be held in early December 2026.
Additional Benefit! Public Service Executive Leadership Collaborative Series
As students of the UConn School of Public Policy, all Encore Connecticut 2025 Fellows are eligible to attend the optional monthly Public Service Executive Leadership Collaborative Seminars for free.
After you graduate from Encore Connecticut, you may attend these sessions at the School of Public Policy Alumni rate.
