DANBURY, Connecticut — The Ancell School of Business at Western Connecticut State University will introduce a new opportunity this summer to help students gain a competitive edge both academically and professionally. Named “Ancell Advantage,” the program aims to provide a blueprint to academic and career success. This three-day, tuition-free program will take place on the university’s Westside campus, 43 Lake Ave. Extension in Danbury, from July 21-23, 2026, and enrollment is limited. Eligible participants include current WestConn students, incoming freshmen, transfer students pursuing a business degree, and/or high-achieving high school students.
Ancell Advantage will equip participants with the AI skills necessary for employment in the 21st century. During this 15-hour program, students will take part in hands-on, skill-building projects to develop their technical expertise in AI-enhanced tools, including ChatGPT and PowerBI. Students will also connect with peers, faculty, and alumni in a positive and productive environment. Attendees will have the chance to formalize their resumes, enhance their personal brand, and participate in mock interviews.
Enrolled students will earn one college credit for full attendance and participation. They will obtain industry orientation with panel discussions consisting of successful alumni and friends of the Ancell School of Business, including a Keynote Speech by Chelen Reyes, President and CEO of Union Savings Bank. Additionally, they will create a Capstone Project that applies AI to real-world challenges from industry partners. In addition to the skills they will acquire, students will earn badges for their achievements. Group essay awards and scholarship opportunities will also be available to qualified applicants.
Dr. Siamack Shojai, Dean of the Ancell School of Business, said, “Excellent business education in the age of AI demands more than technical knowledge; it requires vison, adaptability, and meaningful collaboration between academia and industry. This summer the Ancell Advantage program, featuring 20 accomplished guest speakers, creates a dynamic bridge where students lean directly from leaders shaping the future of business, innovation, and artificial intelligence.”
For more information, contact Susan Hemenway, Administrative Assistant to the Dean of The Ancell School of Business, at hemenways@wcsu.edu or send an email to pr@wcsu.edu.
Western Connecticut State University changes lives by providing all students with a high-quality education that fosters their growth as individuals, scholars, professionals, and leaders in a global society. Our vision: To be widely recognized as a premier public university with outstanding teachers and scholars who prepare students to contribute to the world in a meaningful way.