Apply

$600,000 Gift to Support UHart Career Readiness and Professional Development

Don Allan headshot

As president and CEO of Stanley Black & Decker, Donald Allan Jr. ’86 understands that the future of our most vital industries rests in the hands of the next generation of leaders.

A proud alumnus and current chair of the Board of Regents, Allan is equally confident that those leaders reside right here—at the University of Hartford—and he’s committed to ensuring they have the skills, tools, and knowledge to succeed.
 
Allan, a passionate advocate for career readiness and professional development, and his wife, Marilyn, recently made a generous gift to the University, one that will empower and enable student success in meaningful ways. In recognition of their generosity and investment in the next generation of industry leaders, UHart has created the Allan Center for Career and Professional Development, representing the many initiatives and programs that are available to students University wide.

“Our world is changing and the next generation of makers, creators, tradespeople, and builders are the people who are going to ensure our industries remain collaborative, innovative, and ready to solve the next great challenge,” says Allan. “I believe that UHart students are those leaders. These students have come to the University of Hartford with a thirst for knowledge, and it is our duty to ensure they leave prepared to do good in the world. I can think of no greater investment than preparing our students for success.”

These students have come to the University of Hartford with a thirst for knowledge, and it is our duty to ensure they leave prepared to do good in the world. I can think of no greater investment than preparing our students for success.”

Donald Allan Jr. '86, President & CEO, Stanley Black & Decker; Chair, UHart Board of Regents
career studio
Inside the Career Studio—A hub for career guidance and mentorship

Allan Center for Career and Professional Development

The Allans have generously supported the University for more than three decades. Their latest generous and personal investment will have a direct impact on the Center that bears their name. UHart’s Career Studio, already a hub for career guidance and mentorship, will be enhanced by the growth and support of the Allan Center’s resources, now offering students even more opportunities across all seven of the University’s schools and colleges, aimed at career readiness and professional success.
 
“We are thrilled that this vital resource to our student community will continue to grow and evolve, thanks to Don’s generous support of our University,” says Alex Coury, associate vice president for corporate partnerships and career experiences. “Don’s decision to give back—as a graduate, a philanthropist, a University leader, and a valued corporate partner—will have a direct impact on the students we serve, fueling our mission to better prepare them for the workforce by strengthening connections between students, alumni, and industry.”
 
From the annual Professional Dining Etiquette Dinner to Career Field Takeovers, spotlighting industry specific internships and full-time positions; to facilitating mentorship and networking opportunities between students and alumni, the Center’s evolution continues to place student needs at the forefront, presenting new opportunities to learn with—and from—a growing network of alumni, as well as industry and University partners.
 
“Preparing our students for an ever-changing, global workforce is not easy,” says University of Hartford Acting President Stephen Mulready M’77. “It’s why we must have the resources to react to new and emerging priorities, and deliver programs and initiatives that will prepare our students to excel as the leaders our industries, and our world, need. No one understands that more than Don, and we are grateful for his continued investment in our students.”

Learn more about the Allan Center for Career and Professional Development.