A Family Connection Across Generations
For years, philanthropy at the University of Hartford has been a family affair for Stanley Wells. His late wife, Nancy, earned a master's degree in education from UHart, while his son Sean, his daughter Kristine, and daughter-in-law Jeanne all earned MBA degrees from the Barney School of Business.
Wells likes to joke that he is the family's "black sheep" because he didn’t earn a degree from the University himself, but he has long recognized the transformative power of education and the doors UHart opens for students and families.
His philanthropic journey began in the early 2000’s at the Barney School of Business, where he and Nancy established three endowed scholarships. Their hope was not only to support students directly but also to inspire others to invest in the future of the University. Today, those scholarships continue to create opportunities for Barney students.
However, Wells knew he wanted to do more.
After a conversation with President Ward and Vice President of Development and Alumni Affairs Kate Pendergast, Wells was inspired to learn more about how he could continue to support UHart and accepted an invitation to return to campus to witness what the University is offering this generation of students.
Following the passing of his wife in June, Wells made the trip to the University of Hartford—his first time back on campus in over a decade. What he found exceeded his expectations.
"I was amazed by how much had changed," he recalls. "The campus was beautiful, and I was impressed with the incredible new and renovated spaces since I had last been.”
As he toured campus, Wells was introduced to the work of the Center for Student Success. The more he learned, the more he saw a direct connection between the Center's mission and the values that had guided his philanthropy at the University from the beginning—especially access to education for all students.
Stanley Wells, long-time UHart supporterI've always believed in creating opportunities for students. Scholarships help open the door, and the Center for Student Success helps make sure students have the support they need once they're here. I was inspired by the University's commitment to ensuring students don't fall through the cracks.
Investing in Generations to Come.
The Center for Student Success serves as a central resource for students throughout their academic journey. Whether they need academic guidance, assistance with course registration, answers to administrative and financial questions, or help with a personal challenge, the Center’s advisors connect them with the resources they need to thrive from their first days on campus through graduation.
For Wells, that commitment to student success was powerful. He was especially impressed by the idea that every student has a built-in support system waiting for them the moment they arrive on campus. It was an idea he knew he wanted to support.
"It just felt like a natural fit," he says. "I've always believed in creating opportunities for students. Scholarships help open the door, and the Center for Student Success helps make sure students have the support they need once they're here. I was inspired by the University's commitment to ensuring students don't fall through the cracks."
University leaders proposed naming the Center in honor of his late wife, Nancy, but upon reflection, Wells came up with a different answer.
"I woke up the next morning and knew this was it," he says. "This was the legacy I wanted to leave, but I wanted it to be a Wells family legacy."
Today, the Wells Family Center for Student Success will stand as a tribute to a family whose connection to the University spans generations. It honors the institution that helped shape the lives of his wife, son, daughter, and daughter-in-law while ensuring future students receive the same encouragement, guidance, and opportunity that contributed to their success.
For Wells, the name carries an added meaning. Although he built a successful career on Wall Street and credits much of his own education to professional experience, he is quick to acknowledge the important role the University of Hartford has played in his family's story. Now, through the Wells Family Center for Student Success, the Wells name will become a permanent part of the University's future.
"This gift is really about family and opportunity. The University played an important role in the lives of my wife and children, and the Center for Student Success represents everything we value: support, encouragement, and helping students reach their potential. I'm proud that our family name will be connected to a place that has such a profound impact on students every day.”
Through this transformative gift, Wells has created more than a lasting tribute to his family. He has invested in generations of Hawks, helping ensure they have what they need to thrive at UHart and beyond.