Aspiring Educators is a professional organization for college students preparing to become teachers. Affiliated with the Connecticut Education Association (CEA) and the National Education Association (NEA), the program provides opportunities for professional development, leadership, networking, community service, and advocacy.
This national organization has more than 40,000 members across approximately 1,100 campus chapters.
UHart’s new chapter will offer students opportunities to connect and collaborate with fellow aspiring educators, develop leadership skills, engage in professional learning, and participate in meaningful activities both on- and off-campus. Throughout the year, members will have opportunities to connect with experienced educators and become more involved in the profession.
Christina Swaidan, chair of UHart’s Department of Education, calls it an investment in the next generation of teachers. “Preparing great educators is more than coursework. It is about developing a professional identity, building meaningful relationships, and creating a sense of belonging within the profession,” she says.
Swaidan says the chapter will help students build a strong professional community while still in college, preparing them to enter the classroom with not only the knowledge and skills they need, but also the confidence, purpose, and network of colleagues to support them throughout their careers.
Thomas Denapoli, UHart’s Aspiring Educators chapter president, says the chapter represents an opportunity to create the same sense of connection that inspired his own journey toward becoming an educator.
“My motivation to be a part of the CEA Aspiring Educators program was sparked through my involvement with Educators Rising in high school,” said Denapoli. “At Educators Rising events, I met aspiring ed leaders, and their mentorship and community truly amazed me. I am most looking forward to bringing that sense of community to UHart This new chapter will be a safe space where aspiring educators can come explore, nurture, and further their passion for education.”
Christina Swaidan, Department of Education ChairPreparing great educators is more than coursework. It is about developing a professional identity, building meaningful relationships, and creating a sense of belonging within the profession.