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Articles by Olivia Drake
Bridging Policy and Technology: Social Work's Zhao Explores Telehealth and Rural Substance Use Care
Jie Zhao keeps coming back to one question: does technology actually change people’s health, or does it just look like progress? “We keep working hard to make this technology more advanced and sophisticated, but for most people’s health management, it still feels like there’s a layer in between,” says Zhao, a second-year Ph.D. student in the UConn School of Social Work. “What actually changes health outcomes isn’t some cutting-edge technology.
HVFC Honors Jamie Kuchyt for 45 Years of Service
By Olivia Drake, HVFC Public Information Officer (September 23, 2026) — Join Haddam Volunteer Fire Company in celebrating Firefighter Jamie Kuchyt’s 45 years of service to the Town of Haddam! Jamie joined HVFC’s Junior Division in September 1981 and became a regular member in 1983. He was promoted to the rank of firefighter on October 3, 1983. During his four-plus decades of service, Jamie was appointed second assistant chief, captain, and lieutenant.
UConn Students Prepare to Support Black Men’s Mental Health Through New Mentorship Program
UConn School of Social Work MSW student Sean Excellent grew up in a single-mother household, struggling with depression, and lacking guidance of a father or other male figure in his life. He attended a private school in Stratford, Connecticut, where he was the only Black person among the student body and faculty. “I received wisdom from the women in my life, but I had my own journey in establishing who I was as a Black man,” Excellent says.
Social Work, Medical Students Collaborate to Help Connecticut’s Underserved Communities
As a first-generation Black American college student raised in an underserved community, Zahkiyah Days saw early in life how socioeconomic circumstances can affect access to health care. Her grandmother experienced substance use and mental health conditions but could not afford care that addressed all her needs. Days also saw how those experiences eroded her grandmother’s trust in health care providers.
HVFC Provides Fire Coverage at Haddam River Days
By Olivia Drake, HVFC Public Information Officer (September 18, 2026) — The Haddam Volunteer Fire Company provided standby coverage during the fireworks show at the Haddam River Days event, held on September 12, 2026 at Haddam Meadows State Park. Photos by Olivia Drake Hot this week Haddam Town News Killingworth Town News Features HVFCo Haddam Town News High School Sports HKYFS Our Region Killingworth Town News Pets Connecticut News HVFCo HVFCo Auxiliary
HVFC Junior Firefighters Take Part in Training Drill
By Olivia Drake, HVFC Public Information Officer (September 18, 2026) — On September 15, 2026 Haddam Volunteer Fire Company Junior Division members Evan Estelle (photo below, left) and Jack Jarboe (photo below, right) participated in a collaborative drill at the Killingworth Volunteer Fire Company’s training building.
UConn School of Social Work Prepares Next Generation of Election Workers
As elections grow more technologically complex and the nation’s election workforce grows older, a new program spearheaded by the UConn School of Social Work’s Nancy A. Humphreys Institute for Political Social Work(opens in new tab) is giving students an opportunity to learn how elections are administered — and to play a direct role in the process. Nearly 60% of poll workers in the 2024 general election were age 61 or older (opens in new tab), according to the U.S. Election Assistance Commission.
New Postdocs Bring Expertise in Social Policy, Clinical Decision-Making to the School of Social Work
This fall, the UConn School of Social Work welcomes two postdoctoral fellows. Jon Ahuna Jon Ahuna joins the UConn School of Social Work’s Innovations Institute as the Sheila A. Pires Postdoctoral Research Fellow. He will serve in the role for two years. Ahuna’s research interests include clinical decision-making and the critical examination of innovations in mental health service systems. His clinical interests center on interventions for youth who have experienced complex trauma.
New Social Work Students Encouraged to Embrace the Possibilities of the Profession
Former UConn Master of Social Work student Dawn Brown remembers attending a social work conference as a graduate student and hearing people say, “I don’t want to let people know I’m a social worker.” “As a social work student at the time, I was shocked and reminded that our words have a profound impact on the pride students will have in our profession,” Brown said.
UConn School of Social Work Welcomes Nationally Recognized Gerontologist
This month, Chanee Fabius, a nationally recognized gerontologist and health services researcher, joined the UConn School of Social Work (opens in new tab) as the Judith M. Zachs Family Professor in Aging and associate professor. Additionally, she is affiliated with the UConn Center on Aging (opens in new tab) which supports a robust, nationally recognized research program focused on preventing or minimizing disability and promoting quality of life among older adults.
New UConn Survey Finds 53% of Connecticut Parents Say Child Care is Too Expensive
Connecticut parent Vanessa Hawke recalls the week she was offered a new job on a late Thursday afternoon and was asked to start on Monday. While elated for the new opportunity, she realized she had one business day to arrange affordable childcare for her 3-year-old son. Vanessa Hawke, deputy director of the Connecticut Early Childhood Alliance, makes remarks during a press conference, held July 22 at the UConn School of Social Work.
HVFC Celebrates Rich Williams for Fifty Years of Service
By Olivia Drake, HVFC Public Information Officer (July 13, 2026) — Congratulations to Richard “Rich” Williams on fifty years of service to the Haddam Volunteer Fire Company! Rich joined the Junior Division in May 1976 and became a senior member in July 1978. Over the past five decades, he has served in numerous leadership positions, including Captain, Third Assistant Chief, Second Assistant Chief, Representative to the Board of Directors, and Junior Division Chief.
Why bronze fennel is the all-rounder you need in your garden
Olivia Drake Science & Horticulture Editor 01 Jul, 2026 Here’s a wildlife wonder that doesn’t compromise on style. Add this designer perennial to your borders or container displays for drama and pollinator provision A regular star at the summer RHS Shows, bronze fennel is a plant that does it all. With truly striking dark, feathery foliage, it provides a textural lift to any sunny border or container combo before the zingy yellow, airy flowerheads even appear.
8 star plants of RHS Sandringham 2026
Olivia Drake Science & Horticulture Editor 22 Jul, 2026 Discover plants that stood out at the first ever RHS Sandringham Flower Show, and inspiring floral ideas to take home The plants at a glance: Rosa Tottering-by-Gently Hydrangea paniculata ‘Limelight’ Dahlia merckii – Merck’s dahlia Vitex agnus-castus – chaste tree Parrotia persica, cloud-pruned– Persian ironwood Cosmos atrosanguineus Chocamocha– chocolate cosmos Myrtus communis – common myrtle Tiarella ‘Pink Skyrocket’ – foam flower 1.
7 dreamy plant combinations from RHS Sandringham 2026
Olivia Drake Science & Horticulture Editor 23 Jul, 2026 Designer planting schemes and cracking combos to try at home, inspired by the first-ever RHS Sandringham Flower Show Whether you have a huge border to fill or just a few pots in a corner, a well thought-out combination of plants – which not only look good together, but actually enjoy similar conditions and help each other thrive – can create an effect way above and beyond the sum of its parts.
5 perfect plant combos from RHS Badminton 2026
Olivia Drake Science & Horticulture Editor 10 Jul, 2026 Fresh from the newest RHS show, here are five designer planting schemes and iconic trios to try at home Putting the right plants together not only makes your borders or container displays look amazing – it also creates plant communities that are more resilient to challenges like heat and drought. Inspired by the brand new flower show at RHS Badminton, here are five pre-made designer plant combinations to choose from.
8 star plants of RHS Badminton 2026
Olivia Drake Science & Horticulture Editor 09 Jul, 2026 Discover plants that stood out at the brand new RHS Badminton Flower Show, designer blooms to beat the heat, and inspiring garden ideas to take home The plants at a glance: Silphium mohrii – shaggy rosinweed Rosa The Lark Ascending – rose The Lark Ascending Daucus carota – wild carrot Lathyrus chloranthus – green sweet pea Digitalis × valinii ‘Firecracker’ and friends – foxgloves with Canary Island heritage Malva moschata f.
HVFC Responds to Tractor-Trailer Rollover on Route 9
By Olivia Drake, HVFC Public Information Officer (July 8, 2026) — The Haddam Volunteer Fire company responded to a motor vehicle accident at 12:15 p.m. on July 7, 2026 on Route 9 North near Exit 19 (Aircraft Road). A tractor-trailer with a flatbed rolled over. The operator self-extricated and was transported to Middlesex Hospital via Haddam Volunteer Ambulance Service, Inc. with minor injuries.
A Small “House” Trains HVFC on the Dynamics of a Structure Fire
By Olivia Drake (June 17, 2026) — During Haddam Volunteer Fire Company‘s weekly drill night on June 15, 2026 members reviewed the stages, behavior, and interior dynamics of a structure fire by observing fire spreading inside a training aid resembling a house.
HVFC Responds to Motor Vehicle Accident in Higganum
By Olivia Drake, HVFC Public Information Officer (June 15, 2026) — The Haddam Volunteer Fire Company responded to a motor vehicle accident at 3:20 p.m. on June 1, 2026. Three vehicles collided in the vicinity of the Dollar General store on Killingworth Road in Higganum. Four patients were transported via ambulance to Middlesex Hospital, Hartford Hospital, and Connecticut Children’s Medical Center (CCMC), and one patient was transported via LIFE STAR to CCMC with injuries.
HVFC Takes Part in Rope Rescue Training
By Olivia Drake, HVFC Public Information Officer (June 14, 2026) — On June 8, 2026 members of Haddam Volunteer Fire Company participated in a rope rescue training exercise on Dublin Hill, across from the Higganum Cove Preserve. The scenario involved rescuing a person who had fallen down a steep embankment. Members practiced safely reaching the patient, providing medical care, and securing the patient into a rescue litter for removal.
HVFC Welcomes New Member Andrew Ferguson
By Olivia Drake, HVFC Public Information Officer (June 14, 2026) — The Haddam Volunteer Fire Company has welcomed Junior Division member Andrew Ferguson to the regular membership as a probationary member. He was sworn in on June 1, 2026 as an EMT-track member with a six-month probationary period. Once a Junior Division member turns 18, he or she can join the regular membership.
Lane Discusses Civic Engagement, Voting Rights, Power of Community on National Podcast
As political polarization, voter fatigue, and public distrust in institutions continue to shape the national conversation, Shannon R. Lane believes one message is more important than ever: democracy only works when people participate. Lane, director of the Nancy A. Humphreys Institute for Political Social Work at the UConn School of Social Work, recently shared that message during an appearance on Democracy Does: The Civic Power Playbook, a podcast hosted by journalist Robin N.
7 School of Social Work Doctoral Students Awarded
The UConn School of Social Work Doctoral Fellowship Awards Committee recently announced the winners of doctoral program internal awards. This year, the committee awarded $32,500 across five funding programs. “This was one of the most competitive cycles we have seen in the history of the doctoral program, with 14 applications received,” says committee member Cristina Mogro-Wilson, Zachs Endowed Professor, director, Ph.D. Program, School of Social Work.
Higganum/Haddam Memorial Day Parade 2026 in Pictures
By Olivia Drake (May 26, 2026) — Haddam Volunteer Fire Company Public Information Officer Olivia Drake submitted these photos from the Higganum/Haddam Memorial Day Parade held on May 25, 2026. Photos by Olivia Drake Hot this week Haddam Town News Killingworth Town News Features HVFCo Haddam Town News
Persistent vulnerability to heroin relapse after more than one year of abstinence in rats
Abstract Relapse to opioid use during abstinence is often triggered by drug-associated cues but the persistence of this effect during prolonged abstinence is unknown. Using a rat model, we found that relapse provoked by heroin-predictive discriminative stimuli persisted for over one year of abstinence, suggesting enduring, potentially lifelong opioid relapse vulnerability.
School of Social Work Faculty Honored for Teaching Innovation
Social work asks people to stay present in the most complex and challenging moments. That requires more than knowledge or technical skill—it calls for the capacity to stay grounded, connected, and responsive in the face of pain, conflict, and uncertainty. At the UConn School of Social Work, Associate Professor Caitlin Elsaesser helps students cultivate that capacity through the contemplative practice of mindfulness.
Social Work Graduates Urged to Lead with Compassion, Advocacy at UConn Commencement
A social worker, explains NAACP National Board Member Scot X. Esdaile, is someone committed to improving human well-being — helping individuals, families, and communities overcome poverty, trauma, illness, addiction, abuse, and injustice. Social workers advocate for marginalized populations, challenge broken systems, and fight for human rights and dignity.
8 star plants of RHS Chelsea 2026
Olivia Drake Science & Horticulture Editor 19 May, 2026 Meet some of the floral stars of the show and discover inspiring plant ideas to take home from this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show The plants at a glance: Cycas revoluta – Japanese sago palm Paeonia ‘Buckeye Belle’ – ‘Buckeye Belle’ peony Cornus × elwinortonii VENUS – Venus dogwood Rosa ‘Geranium’ – ‘Geranium’ rose Pinus sylvestris – Scots pine Zizia aurea – golden alexanders Melianthus major – great honey flower Iris germanica hybrids...
HVFC to the Rescue! Dog Saved by Firefighters with Help from Canine Pal
By Olivia Drake, Haddam Volunteer Fire Company Public Information Officer (May 9, 2026) — When Scott and Donna Brinckerhoff realized their “Velcro dog,” Panko, was missing on May 4, 2026 from their Plains Road property in Haddam, they immediately knew something was wrong. The two-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mix (Bernedoodle) always stayed close by and never wandered beyond the boundaries of the couple’s four-acre property.
HVFC Announces New Junior Member and Promotions
By Olivia Drake, HVFC Public Information Officer (May 6, 2026) — During the Haddam Volunteer Fire Company‘s monthly meeting on May 4, 2026, Jack Jarboe was sworn in as a member of the Junior Division. Jack is a Haddam resident and Vinal Tech student. The HVFC Junior Division is comprised of 14- to 17-year-old cadets who learn alongside firefighters and perform support functions at calls. Once a Junior turns 18, he or she can join the regular membership.
19 Bilingual CT ¡Adelante! Scholars to Graduate with MSW Degrees
In seventh grade, Nicole Vega ’26 MSW was often absent from school and struggled with behavioral challenges. At home, her mother was bedridden, and as the youngest child, Vega took on caregiving responsibilities. Despite these challenges, she excelled academically. When a principal recommended transferring her to an alternative school, a counselor intervened—advocating for Vega to stay. That moment would shape her future.
A Busy Month of April for Haddam Volunteer Fire Company
By Olivia Drake, HVFC Public Information Officer (May 4, 2026) — Haddam Volunteer Fire Company responded to more than forty calls for emergency services during the month of April, 2026 including three brush fires, three motor vehicle accidents, two wires burning, and one structure fire. At 10:25 p.m. on April 30, crews responded to Candlewood Hill Road for a motor vehicle accident. The operator was evaluated on scene and refused additional medical treatment.
9 School of Social Work Alumni Honored at Awards Reception
Even in the face of uncertainty, change, and challenging federal funding environment, the UConn School of Social Work faculty, staff, students, and alumni are advancing their mission of social justice every day. “Our community is remarkably resilient,” said Laura Curran, dean of the School of Social Work. “In this deeply challenging moment for our profession, we continue to move forward with purpose.” Jillian Davey MSW ’23 received a Dean’s Alumni Recognition Award.
Social Work Faculty Honored with Provost Award for Excellence in Community-Engaged Scholarship
For addressing critical societal challenges through impactful, community-engaged research, Sukhmani Singh, assistant professor in the School of Social Work, has received a 2026 Provost’s Award for Excellence in Community-Engaged Scholarship in the Emerging Scholar Research category. Singh’s scholarship examines entrenched and intersecting inequities within the criminal legal system, with a focus on marginalized youth, women, nonbinary individuals, and formerly incarcerated adults.
The Overlooked Addiction: UConn Researcher Targets Tobacco Use in Substance Use Care
For Elizabeth “Liz” Jurczak Goldsborough, tobacco use is a social justice issue. “Although tobacco use has declined dramatically in the United States, the progress has not been shared equally across all populations,” says Goldsborough, a UConn School of Social Work doctoral candidate.
Social Work's Foley Recipient of UConn Outstanding Adjunct Award
Anne Foley ’87 MSW spent decades shaping public policy in Connecticut—and preparing UConn students to do the same. For more than 30 years, she’s helped students connect policy theory to real-world impact at the UConn School of Social Work. This year, her dedication to teaching and mentorship has earned her the University of Connecticut Outstanding Adjunct Award.
Why comfrey is the superplant you need
Olivia Drake Science & Horticulture Editor 01 Apr, 2026 With spring in full swing, look out for one of our most striking and versatile British wildflowers – comfrey. You may already know you can turn the leaves into a free liquid feed, but did you know comfrey is also amazing for wildlife?
HVFC Honors Top Responders
By Olivia Drake, HVFC Public Information Officer (March 23, 2026) — During the Haddam Volunteer Fire Company banquet, held on March 21, 2026 at the Middletown Elks Lodge, Lieutenant Kris Proto was named Top Responder and honored with the Chief’s Award for responding to 346 emergency incidents in 2025, supporting fellow firefighters, engaging in community outreach, stepping up to oversee the Junior Division program, and continually going above and beyond expectations.
Social Work Researcher Uses Photography to Explore Lived Experiences of Immigrants in Armenia
Our websites may use cookies to personalize and enhance your experience. By continuing without changing your cookie settings, you agree to this collection. For more information, please see our University Websites Privacy Notice. Skip to content March 18, 2026 March 18, 2026 | Olivia Drake There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
Researcher Receives Dean’s Incentive Award to Study Youth Experiences with Food Insecurity
According to national estimates, food insecurity affects an estimated 15 million Americans, making it one of the most widespread threats to child and adolescent health and well-being. While decades of research have linked food insecurity to challenges in academic performance, emotional health, and development, most studies rely on parents to report children’s experiences. UConn School of Social Work Assistant Professor Alexandria B. Forte, believes this approach may miss critical insights.
HVFC Firefighters Complete Training and Receive Awards
By Olivia Drake (March 14, 2026) — Congratulations to Haddam Volunteer Fire Company Probationary Members Michael DiGiacomo and William “Bill” Meyer who graduated from the Middlesex County Fire School. They completed the combined Firefighter I and Firefighter II course.
UConn’s Campaign School for Social Workers Ignites Political Leadership
More than 165 social workers, students, and advocates from across the country gathered for the 30th Annual Campaign School for Social Workers, a two-day intensive training hosted by the Nancy A. Humphreys Institute for Political Social Work at the UConn School of Social Work. Shannon Lane, director of the Nancy A. Humphreys Institute for Political Social Work coordinated the Campaign School for Social Workers. (Taylor Tucker/UConn photo) Held Feb.
UConn Community Testifies at General Assembly Hearing on Graduate Loan Access
In July 2026, the federal government is expected to eliminate Grad PLUS loans and cap federal borrowing for graduate students at $20,500 per year. According to the Council on Social Work Education, the change could affect approximately 370,000 graduate students nationwide and reduce access to an estimated $8 billion in federal loan funding. Jocelyn Medina, a second-year MSW student, testified remotely.
Smith to Develop Perspectives on Gender-Based Violence Course as 2026 Service Learning Fellow
To support the development of a new community-engaged course on gender-based violence, UConn’s Office of Outreach and Engagement named Ellen Smith, associate professor-in-residence in the UConn School of Social Work, a 2026 Service Learning Fellow. This year-long program supports faculty who are designing, enhancing, or teaching community-engaged courses.
School of Social Work Alumni Share Career Pathways with BSW Students
Social work, says UConn alumna Ilene Garcia, is a lot like a game of telephone. Somewhere along the way—between systems, agencies, schools, courts, and community providers—the original message can get lost. Resources don’t reach families. Needs go unmet. Communication breaks down. “And then there’s a loss of connection,” Garcia says.
UConn Research Informs Policy Debate on Expanding Juvenile Parole Eligibility in Connecticut
More than a decade after Miller v. Alabama, 2012, when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled mandatory life-without-parole sentences for juveniles are unconstitutional, Connecticut is once again examining how it sentences young people. Sukhmani Singh, assistant professor at the UConn School of Social Work, lead a participatory, multi-method research project and her work is helping shape this timely conversation. On Feb.
Why hazel is the small tree that has it all
Olivia Drake Science & Horticulture Editor 04 Feb, 2026 Why hazel is the small tree that has it all From wildlife provision to year-round interest and value for garden crafts, hazel is a tree that delivers in every way. Which one will you choose? Hazels are instantly recognisable for their bright, pollen-clad catkins dangling from bare stems, which light up countryside and gardens alike amid the late winter gloom.
SSW Faculty, Ph.D. Students Share Recent Studies at Society for Social Work and Research Conference
Several members of the UConn School of Social Work community attended, presented, and networked during the 30th annual Society for Social Work and Research Conference held Jan. 14-18 in Washington, D.C. The conference, titled “Leading for Transformative Change: Aligning Social Work Science with Policy and Practice,” offered more than 500 symposia, research workshops, networking receptions, roundtables, flash talks, paper and poster presentations.
NSF Survey Places UConn School of Social Work as a Top U.S. School for Research Expenditures
The National Science Foundation (NSF) recently named the UConn School of Social Work one of the top public schools in the country for total research expenditures. The NSF’s annual Higher Education Research and Development (HERD) Survey, placed UConn SSW at No. 7 among public schools, and No. 11 among all schools of social work nationwide in its 2024 report.
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