Pathways to better health begin at Central

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Central Connecticut State University’s hosted its official ribbon-cutting on Aug. 19 for the Community Health Education Clinic and the College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (CHRS).

Opened to the public in January 2024, the Central Community Health Education Clinic provides free healthcare services to members of the university community and residents of greater New Britain. Services include preventative health screenings, fitness assessments, body mass analysis, and more. 

In addition to the clinic’s opening, President Zulma R. Toro introduced the new dean of CHRS, Dr. Jayanthi Kandiah.

“Dr. Kandiah has my full support, and I look forward to watching the college thrive under her direction,” Toro said.

The College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences encompasses Central’s existing Nursing, Social Work, Nurse Anesthesia Practice, Physical Education and Human Performance, and Counselor Education departments.

“Through interdisciplinary collaborations, we will pave the way for stronger community partnerships and better health outcomes,” Toro said. “We recognize that health is not just the absence of illness; it is a holistic concept that encompasses physical, mental, and social well-being.”

Among the more than 100 assembled guests was New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart, an alumna of Central and long-time supporter of the new college.

Stewart said, “Our community is incredibly diverse, and meeting the needs — especially the healthcare outcomes — of the people in our community who need it and need it the most is going to do wonders” in New Britain.