FEBRUARY 18, 2026 • VOLUME 96 • ISSUE 17
The official student newspaper of Quinnipiac University since 1929
Quinnipiac launches AI for Business Innovation in Healthcare
By ADRIANA CERBONE Staff Writer
Quinnipiac University’s Department of Lifelong Learning received a $25,409 Connecticut Tech Talent Accelerator Pilot Grant to support the launch of Artificial Intelligence for Business Innovation in Healthcare on Feb. 6. This new program will begin in May 2026. The program is designed for working professionals, with a focus on the practical application of AI in healthcare and business. Director of Lifelong Learning Alison Witherspoon explained the reason behind the development. “The AI for Business Innovation in Healthcare program was developed in direct response to needs expressed by regional employers seeking to accelerate their workforce’s readiness to effectively leverage artificial intelligence,” she said. The program is specifically focusing on inclusivity for non-technical professionals. First-year nursing major Leilene Garcia believes inclusivity will only benefit people. “If the program wasn’t inclusive, I feel like it wouldn’t be good because how else are people supposed to learn?” Garcia said. “Focusing on inclusivity is so important to really help people grow and prepare for the real world.” The Connecticut Tech Talent Accelerator Pilot Grant plans to strengthen Connecticut’s technology workforce. To be successful, they will support innovative, employer-aligned training TYLER MIGNAULT/CHRONICLE
See AI HEALTHCARE Page 3
Quinnipiac University hosts First Selectman State of the Town Address in North Haven By LILLIAN CURTIN Opinion Editor
Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce held its annual First Selectman State of the Town Address on Quinnipiac University’s North Haven Campus Feb. 12. Every year, the First Selectman of North Haven gives a presentation updating the town on developments, economic and budget information and other matters that may be considered important to North Haven residents. The QCC is a local business organization that supports and connects companies in the greater Quinnipiac area. It organizes events and provides information and resources. “(QCC) work(s) with the First Selectman or the mayor of the towns to find out, kind of, sort of, what’s happening within the community.” Executive Director of QCC Renee Miller said. “To be able to build a presentation to be able to give to
everyone, so that they know what’s happening.” North Haven First Selectman Mike Freda was reelected to his position in November 2025, starting his ninth term. A First Selectman is the head elected official of a town that doesn’t have a mayor. Miller believes this is a great opportunity for both the general and business community to connect with Freda. “He’s really part of the fabric of this community,” Miller said. “Obviously, with a partnership with Quinnipiac University, looking at the student body, obviously, to retain students to stay within the community, to work within the business community that we have here, so that’s really a big core.” He is one of the longest-serving selectmen, according to Quinnipiac President Marie Hardin. This was Freda’s 17th time addressing the chamber and town.
“I always enjoy being able to profile for the town of North Haven, on behalf of the town of North Haven, to the business community and to the public that comes,” Freda said to The Chronicle. The event began with members of different organizations and companies, such as QCC, Pat Munger Construction and others, sharing kind words about Freda. Vice President of Sales and Relationship Management of both the QCC and the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce Gary Ciarleglio, took the podium to thank sponsors and supporters. Following Ciarleglio, Miller introduced Hardin. She welcomed the audience to the campus, inviting them to explore on-campus locations such as the Netter School of Medicine and the mock trial courtroom in the School of Law. “It’s inspiring. I feel smarter every time I walk
OPINION
ARTS & LIFE
P. 4
P. 6
in there,” Hardin said to the audience. Hardin emphasized that higher education wouldn’t be able to be achieved if it weren’t for the community. “You have to have a friend willing to open doors for you to advocate and to connect,” she said. That “friend” for Hardin was Freda. “He was one of the very first ones to literally come to my office and extend his hand in friendship, and that meant a great deal to me,” she said. Freda and Hardin have already established a great friendship, according to both. “(Hardin’s) been very kind and generous. She knows I support her and the University, and they have supported us,” Feda said. The university has given the town voluntary payments that have helped North Haven improve See SELECTMAN Page 3
SPORTS
P. 12
IN THIS ISSUE I miss the early 2000’s Walt Disney World
How Dove is changing the way women see themselves
Ethan Wyttenbach stuns nation in freshman campaign