Since its inauguration in January 1974, the Polish Studies Program has served Central students and the broader central Connecticut community by interpreting and offering perspectives on historic developments that reshaped global politics and human rights during the fourth quarter of the 20th century: the election of Pope John Paul II in 1978, the creation of the Solidarity movement in 1980, the collapse of the Soviet empire in 1989, and Poland's regained sovereignty and admission as an American ally into NATO in April 1998.
As of Fall 2011, students may elect a Minor in Polish Studies composed of courses from several departments. This is a major advance in the history of Polish studies at Central. Students interested in Poland, or Eastern Europe in general, can now supplement their major program with this focused complimentary choice. For any further information please contact the program's director, M. B. B. Biskupski at biskupskim@ccsu.edu.
The program offers courses in history, politics, culture, literature, language, and on the Polish American ethnic community. The Polish Heritage Collection in the University Library, numbering over 21,000 catalogued books and periodicals, supplements course offerings. The Connecticut Polish American Archives is a research depository for the public, scholars and students of the Polish community in America. It is supported in part by the Alex M. Rudewicz Endowment. Access to the Connecticut Polish American Archives is by appointment only and further information may be obtained by calling 860.832.2085 or 860.832.2086.
Scholarships
The following scholarships administered by the CCSU Foundation are related to the Polish and Polish American Studies program. The online application period for Foundation scholarships runs from December 1 to February 1 each year. Typically, awards are determined during the spring semester for students who will be enrolled at Central in the following fall semester.
