Investing in the Future: Regional Chamber Foundation Grants $5,000 to Local Scholars

In June 2025, The Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut Foundation awarded a total of $5,000 in scholarships to four graduating high school seniors from the region. Each recipient will receive $1,250 to support their continued education and technical training in colleges and universities across New England.

Funded by generous contributions from local businesses and proceeds from the Foundation’s annual Bowl-A-Thon, the scholarship program recognizes students who demonstrate academic excellence, financial need, and community engagement.

“This year’s scholars exemplify the values we aim to foster - dedication to education, entrepreneurship, and community service. They’re not only excelling in the classroom but also giving back, launching small businesses, and leading with purpose,” states Megan Gilbert, Vice President of the Chamber and Vice-Chair of the Foundation.

“These students represent the future of our region through their commitment to making a difference. We’re proud to support their journey and invest in the next generation of leaders who will shape eastern Connecticut for the better,” Gilbert emphasizes.

Meet the 2025 Scholarship Recipients:

• Arnell Peck, The Williams School (New London) – Headed to the University of Richmond (VA), Arnell plans to study Business Administration with the goal of earning an MBA and JD. His passion lies in sports law and politics, where he aims to advocate for athletes’ rights and one day serve his community through public office.
• Cortland Ruggiero, Griswold High School – Enrolling at the University of Connecticut, Cortland will pursue Environmental Engineering. A dedicated volunteer at Mystic Aquarium and Mystic Seaport and the owner of a local lawn care business, he’s committed to protecting the environment and promoting sustainable living.
• Kathrin Fischer, Killingly High School – Attending the University of New England (ME), Kathrin will major in Applied Exercise Science. Inspired by personal health experiences and a leadership role in athletics, she plans to become a sports physician focused on rehabilitation and performance.
• Charles “Charlie” Morgan, Waterford High School – Bound for Rochester Institute of Technology (NY), Charlie intends to earn both a Bachelor's and Master's in Mechanical Engineering. A dedicated Boy Scout and community volunteer, he’s passionate about using engineering to make a tangible impact while continuing to serve others.

Scholarship program applications launch annually in May. Read about last year’s recipients here.  

About the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut Foundation: 

The mission of the Foundation, a 501(c)(3) overseen by an all-volunteer board is to enhance and enrich education and economic opportunities, in the Chamber’s service area. To date, the Foundation has raised more $2.5M for this purpose and each year provides local nonprofits with crucial resources, including funds for pilot programs, research, and program expansion, that improve the region’s overall quality of life. Learn more by visiting ChamberECT.com/chamber-foundation.