Fairfield University Athletics and Fairfield Public Schools Conclude Inaugural Year of Formal Community Partnership

A year of mentorship, engagement, and impact.

Fairfield University Athletics and Fairfield Public Schools mark the successful conclusion of the first academic year of their formal partnership, an initiative designed to inspire young learners through mentorship, engagement, and the integration of Fairfield University's athletics into educational enrichment at the local public schools.

Launched ahead of the 2025–26 academic year, the partnership has connected Fairfield University NCAA Division 1 student-athletes with elementary school students across the district, fostering meaningful relationships while promoting academic achievement, physical wellness, and personal growth. Over the course of the year, student-athletes contributed their time and talents in classrooms, at school events, and through community-building initiatives that reached students across multiple schools.

Throughout the year, Fairfield student-athletes supported a wide range of programming, including classroom reading initiatives, STEM nights, physical education assistance, and school-wide events.

At Burr Elementary, student-athletes assisted with physical education classes, supported school spirit events like the Jump Rope for Heart pep rally, and participated in STEM Night activities. Mill Hill Elementary developed a yearlong pen pal program with Men’s Basketball alongside regular classroom engagement, strengthening connections between university students and young learners.

Riverfield Elementary saw weekly visits from men’s and women’s soccer student-athletes, who provided classroom support and participated in fitness programming, while Stratfield Elementary hosted basketball skill sessions, literacy events, and student-athlete talks centered on perseverance and goal setting.

In addition to in-school programming, the partnership extended to the broader community through PTA Nights hosted at Fairfield University basketball games, offering students and families a fun night out.

“This partnership reflects the very best of Fairfield’s mission as a modern, Jesuit Catholic University—bringing our students into the community to lead, to serve, and to inspire,” said Jennifer Anderson, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Fairfield University.

“We have seen firsthand how these connections enrich not only the lives of the elementary students, but also our student-athletes, who are developing as leaders committed to making a meaningful impact.”

Superintendent Michael Testani emphasized the value of the collaboration for the district: “Fairfield Public Schools is proud to celebrate the success of this inaugural partnership with Fairfield University Athletics. Throughout the year, our students benefited from meaningful interactions with outstanding collegiate student-athletes who served as mentors, role models, and positive influences in our schools. Whether supporting literacy initiatives, assisting in physical education classes, participating in STEM events, or simply building relationships with students, the student athletes demonstrated the power of service and community engagement. This partnership has enriched the educational experience of our students while strengthening the connection between our schools and Fairfield University. We are grateful for Fairfield University’s commitment to our community and look forward to expanding these opportunities for students in the years ahead."

Paul Schlickman, Vice President for Athletics added, “We are thrilled with the success of our inaugural “Stags Adopt a School Program”. This is a mutually beneficial endeavor that affords meaningful growth opportunities for our student-athletes while serving as roles models for the youth of our community. This program aligns seamlessly with our mission to utilize athletics as a vehicle for holistic personal development and impactful community engagement. As a resident of Fairfield, I have seen and heard first-hand the enthusiastic value of this program to achieve both priorities. We are honored and proud to work alongside the administrators, teachers and students in the Fairfield Public Schools and look forward to our continued partnership.”

While engagement levels varied by school, the overall impact underscores a strong foundation for continued growth and expanded participation in the years ahead.

As the academic year concludes, Fairfield University and Fairfield Public Schools look forward to building upon this momentum, deepening relationships, and expanding opportunities for students across the community again next year.

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