Mystery dinner brings funding to NVCC

WATERBURY, Conn. (April 15, 2008) – Local politicians and community leaders took to the bright lights of theatre on Saturday, April 5, in an effort to help raise money for the Naugatuck Valley Community College Technology Building.  The Agatha-Christie style drama, “Suspicious Crossings,” was performed at the Grand Oak Villa, Watertown, for a sold-out crowd of 180 people.

The cast squeezed in weekly rehearsals in the month leading up to the event.  Tom Chute of WATR, director and producer of the play, noted that it was as much fun as work.  “We are all in different businesses and we maybe all don’t get to see a lot of each other, so this helps us get to know each other and bond and have fun,” he said.

Although the college is partially state-funded, only half of the money necessary to fully outfit the classrooms in the new 100,000 square foot building is covered.  Proceeds from the event will be channeled through the NVCC Foundation to furnish the college’s automotive and engineering technologies, hospitality management, horticulture, computer and general classrooms. 

“The new technology building is a prime example of how NVCC provides a unique and significant resource to local businesses and organizations, as well as its 10,000 students,” says Audrey Thompson, associate dean of resource development.  “Local leaders volunteer their time and talents because they recognize the tremendous value NVCC provides the entire region.” 

James Troup, dean of administration, notes that the college has acquired enough funds from donors, grants and the government for the building to open in fall 2008.  The college must continue to seek community and grant support, however, to cover the nearly $1 million gap in funding remaining.