College of Arts and Sciences News

The College of Arts & Sciences at Western New England University plays an integral role in supporting the entire University through foundational coursework, academic support, and international travel programming. The largest of all the Colleges, WNE College of Arts & Sciences is among just 13.4% of the 388 U.S. schools ranked by U.S. News & World Report in the National Universities category with undergraduate enrollments of less than 3,000 students.Resilient and adaptive, WNE graduates connect theory to practice in an environment that cultivates professionalism and service.

Head shot of Professor Jason Seacat in front of Hermann Hall

Flying With Kids Frustrating? WNE Professor Jason Seacat Weighs In on the Real Problem

December 16, 2024

Traveling with children can be stressful for everyone involved, but is the chaos really the kids’ fault—or the parents’? Dr. Jason Seacat, a psychology professor at Western New England University, offers insights into why some parents may struggle to manage their children’s behavior during flights.

Brenda Garton in foreground in front of tables at the Basketball Hall of Fame.

WNE’s Brenda Garton-Sjoberg and Husband Honored for Outstanding Community Service

December 16, 2024

Brenda Garton-Sjoberg, and her husband, John Sjoberg, were celebrated at the Rotary Club of West Springfield’s Service Above Self luncheon. The couple was recognized for their unwavering dedication to community service and their efforts to make a lasting impact on the lives of others.

Headshot of Professor Dan Bevacqua.

Professor Dan Bevacqua Shines in The Paris Review: Celebrating Literary Excellence and Creative Writing Leadership 

December 13, 2024

Professor of English and Director of the Creative Writing Program Dan Bevacqua discusses publication of his story “Daughters,” inThe Paris Review, his creative process and his joy working with WNE students.

Andrea Dias presents in front of a white board providing insight into preparing resumes.

Teaching Education Seminar Provides Insights to Aspiring Teachers

December 04, 2024

WNE staff and alumni connect with current students to provide real-world perspectives and professional guidance directly to aspiring educators.

Prof. Okeem stands at podium

WNE Criminal Justice Professor Chidike Okeem Discusses Safety and Crime Reduction in WalletHub Interview

October 22, 2024

WNE Criminal Justice Professor Chidike Okeem Discusses Safety and Crime Reduction in WalletHub Interview

Artist illustration of poet Sara Nicholson

Western New England University Welcomes Poet Sara Nicholson for New Writers Reading Series

September 12, 2024

WNE's Department of English and Cultural Studies welcomes poet Sara Nicholson to New Writers Reading Series.

Two female students in white lab coats and safety goggles examine a yellow liquid specimen.

Forensic Biology Program Ranked Among Nation's Top 15

September 12, 2024

Western New England University’s forensic biology program has been named one of the top 15 in the U.S.

Computer display of code

Western New England University Launches Cybersecurity Program to Address Global Skills Gap

September 05, 2024

Western New England University announces the launch of its Cybersecurity Program, a significant new initiative designed to address the critical global shortage of cybersecurity professionals.

Herman Hall home of the College of Arts & Sciences entrance.

College of Arts & Sciences Honors Students For Outstanding Achievements

May 13, 2024

Academic excellence shines as Western New England University celebrates 16 graduating students’ achievements at the College of Arts & Sciences Senior Award Ceremony.

Western New England University welcomed the new Chi Alpha Sigma 2024 Inductees at their annual ceremony on May 2nd.

Western New England Inducts 58 Student-Athletes into Chi Alpha Sigma National Honor Society

May 06, 2024

Western New England University's Chi Alpha Sigma National Honor Society induction marked a milestone with 58 student-athletes from 17 sports recognized for their outstanding contributions on and off the field, boasting the largest class in the university's history.

Western New England University celebrated the induction of four students into Delta Delta Epsilon National Honor Society.

Western New England University Students Inducted into Delta Delta Epsilon National Honor Society

May 04, 2024

Western New England University celebrated the induction of four students into Delta Delta Epsilon National Honor Society, highlighting their academic excellence and dedication to advancing forensic science.

Associate Professor of Criminal Justice, Creaig Dunton, welcoming the new Alpha Phi Sigma inductees.

Western New England University Students Inducted into Alpha Phi Sigma National Honor Society

May 03, 2024

The Western New England University chapter of Alpha Phi Sigma added 39 students during its annual induction, emphasizing critical thinking and ethical standards in criminal justice education.

President and General Manager of 22News Bob Simone addresses Communication students in the WNE TV studio.

College of Arts and Sciences Hosts Successful Event with Alumnus Bob Simone President and General Manager of 22 News

May 02, 2024

22 News President and General Manager Bob Simone, a distinguished alumnus, returns to Western New England University to inspire communication students with his insights into the broadcasting industry. Simone's visit provides students with valuable real-world perspectives and networking opportunities.

Alison Castellano, the 2024 recipient of the WNE Teaching Excellence Award, stands proudly with previous Teaching Excellence Awardees who eagerly pass her the torch of honor! (L to R) Mike Rust (2022), Alison Castellano (2024), Hillary Bucs (2021), and Tim Vercellotti (2023).

Alison Castellano Honored with 2024 Teaching Excellence Award for Dedication and Inspirational Impact

April 30, 2024

Alison Castellano earns WNE's 2024 Teaching Excellence Award for her inspiring dedication, impactful teaching, and profound influence on students.

Group photo of the Western New England University’s Pi Mu Epsilon chapter seven new inductees.

Western New England University Pi Mu Epsilon National Honor Society Welcomes Seven New Members

April 27, 2024

Western New England University’s Pi Mu Epsilon chapter recognized seven students for their scholarly activity in mathematics at the April 26 induction ceremony.

Pictured from (L to R): Sean O'Neil, President of Lambda Pi Eta, Louis Stabile, Kasen Sirois, and Joe EldredgPictured from (L to R): Sean O'Neil, President of Lambda Pi Eta, Louis Stabile, Kasen Sirois, and Joe Eldredge

Western New England University Lambda Pi Eta National Honor Society Welcomes Three New Members

April 26, 2024

Western New England University’s Lambda Pi Eta chapter honored three students for their scholastic excellence in communication.

Hampden County District Attorney Anthony Gulluni

Western New England University Students Inducted into Pi Alpha Theta National Honor Society

April 20, 2024

Fourteen students were inducted into WNE's Pi Alpha Theta history honor society, recognizing their dedication to historical research.

Hampden County District Attorney Anthony Gulluni stands with Don Williams Chair of History, Philosophy, Political Science & Economics at the 2024 Pi Sigma Alpha National Honor Society induction ceremony on April 18.

Western New England University Students Inducted into Pi Sigma Alpha National Honor Society

April 19, 2024

Twelve students were inducted into WNE's Pi Sigma Alpha chapter, honoring their achievements in political science, highlighted by a lecture from DA Anthony D. Gulluni.

The Western New England University chapter of Psi Chi

Western New England University Psi Chi National Honor Society Welcomes 13 New Members

April 14, 2024

Thirteen students were inducted into Psi Chi at Western New England University, honoring their achievements in psychology at the annual ceremony on April 12.

The Western New England University chapter of Sigma Tau Delta inducted 15 students.

Western New England University Students Inducted into Sigma Tau Delta National Honor Society

April 07, 2024

The Western New England University chapter of Sigma Tau Delta inducted 15 students for their excellence in English language and literature at the annual ceremony on April 4.

Anthony Gulluni

Western New England University Hosts District Attorney Anthony Gulluni for Guest Lecture

April 03, 2024

Western New England University hosts a guest lecture by Hampden County District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni, an esteemed alumnus, highlighting his impactful career in public service and innovative initiatives in community building.

Student team posing with faculty member in front of their presentation.

College of Arts and Sciences Showcases Faculty-Student Collaboration at Eastern Psychological Association Annual Meeting

April 02, 2024

Dr. Deana Vitrano and undergraduate students from Western New England University present research at the Eastern Psychological Association annual meeting, exploring the intricate links between ADHD, creativity, and cognitive processing, affirming the university's dedication to scholarly inquiry and collaborative learning.

Maria Butrimas

WNE Senior Political Science Major Presents Latest Research at National Conference

March 11, 2024

WNE Political Science senior Maria Butrimas collaborates with Professor Tim Vercellotti to present their joint research on public attitudes toward Civil War monuments at the Pi Sigma Alpha National Conference in DC.

WNE research team exploring Generative AI's potential in academic assessment. From left: Lisa Hansen, Josephine Rodriguez, David DiSabito, and Thomas Mennella.

Cross-disciplinary Research Team at Western New England University Pioneers Academic Assessment with Generative AI

March 08, 2024

Western New England University's cross-disciplinary research team explores Generative AI's potential in academic assessment, aiming to improve teaching, streamline grading, and address potential biases.

Teaching Excellence Award Finalists logo

Announcing the 2024 Teaching Excellence Award Finalists

March 07, 2024

Finalists for the 2024 Teaching Excellence Award revealed at Western New England University. Input from students, alumni, faculty, and staff sought to help select the winner.