Patricia Dillon

The Carnegie Foundation announced that Southern Connecticut State University has earned a 2025 Carnegie Classification for Institutions of Higher Education (Carnegie Classifications) Research Activity Designation – Research 2: High Spending and Doctorate Production.

Though there are difficulties in Washington, we are working in Hartford to build a better Connecticut. Governor Lamont addressed the General Assembly to share his budget proposal. It was a good faith effort, and I look forward to working with my colleagues and the governor to pass a budget that is beneficial to all residents in the state. Although the uncertainty on the federal level may impact any of our proposals, it is important that we continue to roll up our sleeves and get the work done.

The state’s severe cold weather protocol went into effect on Sunday. It will remain in effect through noon on Friday, January, 24th. During this period, temperatures are expected to remain below freezing throughout the daytime hours, and overnight temperatures are anticipated to drop into the single digits and possibly below zero.

This Wednesday is the Opening Day for the 2025 legislative session. My colleagues and I will officially be sworn in and we will begin our legislative work. I look forward to another successful and productive session.

A number of new laws that were passed during the 2024 legislative session will go into effect Wednesday, January 1.

From my family to yours, I want to take a moment to send my best wishes for the holiday season. May it bring you and your loved ones peace, happiness and time well spent together. Remember that no matter how we celebrate, we also share many blessings. So, in the spirit of the season, please spread the joy that makes this time of the year truly special.

Connecticut will experience a period of extremely cold conditions during the next several days, so Governor Lamont has activated the state’s severe cold weather protocol starting at 12 p.m. on Saturday, December 21, and effective through 12 p.m. on Tuesday, December 24.

Starting January 1, Connecticut college students will be able to benefit from a bill we passed to alleviate student loan debt. The reimbursement program, led by House Democrats and the first of its kind in the nation, provides up to $5,000/year for up to four years (up to $20,000) in loan forgiveness. Six million dollars has been allocated in the current budget cycle and will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.