For Carolann Baldyga A’62, ’64, P ’97, attending the University of Hartford was a practical choice that turned into a meaningful experience. Carolann selected University of Hartford because she could live at home and work part-time. In the 1960’s there were no dorms and many students lived in apartments around the area. The University sponsored social activities and on-campus clubs to enhance the student experience. Carolann’s years were filled with learning, friendships, and discovery. Between classes and student activities, Carolann and her friends would take the bus or hitch rides with students who had cars—these experiences resulted in her meeting people from different backgrounds and countries. “I learned so much from my classmates and faculty. Those four years opened up a very interesting and complex world to me. We had parties, produced a yearbook, newspaper and caused a little mischief—all good!”
After her time at the University of Hartford, Carolann went on to have a rewarding and successful career in higher education, while her late husband, Ted, built a meaningful career as an urban planner. Both shared a strong belief in the value of education. “Our lives were changed in a positive way because of our college experiences.” She reflects. “At Fairfield University, Ted was also a commuter student. It sure was a struggle on some days, but worth all the effort.”
In 2012, Carolann and Ted established the Walach/Baldyga Family Endowed Scholarship to helps students, who like them, needed financial support while in school. Their son Andy Baldyga is also an alum of UHart and graduated in 1997 with a degree in architecture. They are a proud UHart legacy family. Through their scholarship, they have had the opportunity to connect with many students. Carolann shares “It has been wonderful to meet several scholarship recipients, read their letters, and share their excitement for the future. To see the diverse backgrounds of the students and the diversity in their choices for their future has made this experience rewarding for us. One recipient studied art and culture in Hawaii, another was working to become a kindergarten teacher. They were interested in marketing, biology, cinema, health care, liberal studies, communications, graphic design, occupational therapy, architecture, and more.”
For Carolann, a university education is more than preparing for a career. “Often what we learn in classes outside of our major focus of study is what sustains us when times become difficult, she says. “College helps us think more deeply about life experiences.” Reflecting on her own journey, Carolann is still grateful for her University of Hartford education and what the school provided. “As a student, I was not sure where my college experience would lead. Earning a living, being independent, and experiencing the world were my goals. The University of Hartford provided a solid foundation for my future, and for the success of my son, as well.” She believes UHart continues to offer something truly special. “Not all colleges are the same. At the University of Hartford, students benefit from a college environment where they can get to know classmates and faculty, where athletic competition exists—but does not dominate the culture, and where there are strong connections to the off-campus community.”
Through the Walach/Baldyga Endowed scholarship, Carolann and Ted’s beliefs in higher education will live on allowing students find their own paths and building a bright future filled with opportunities.
Carolann Baldyga A'62, '64, P'97,As a student, I was not sure where my college experience would lead. Earning a living, being independent, and experiencing the world were my goals. The University of Hartford provided a solid foundation for my future, and for the success of my son, as well.”