FAIRFIELD — Fairfield University and Fairfield Public Schools have entered into a partnership designed to connect elementary school students across the district with role models and experiences that highlight the values of teamwork, service, and education.
Rooted in Fairfield University’s Jesuit mission of service to others and the holistic development of students, this program will connect NCAA Division I student-athletes with the Town of Fairfield’s young learners through a variety of programs throughout the academic year.
“We are very excited to formulate this comprehensive effort with our school system, said Paul Schlickmann, vice president for athletics at Fairfield University. “This program reflects the cultural commitment of our student-athletes to serve and care for others while fostering our Jesuit values. We are proud to use Stags Athletics as a vehicle for community engagement, mentorship, and the opportunity to help young people become the best version of themselves.”
Some of the program highlights include:
Reading Days: Fairfield University student-athletes will visit schools to read aloud in classrooms, promoting literacy and the joy of reading.
School Event Participation: Athletes will attend signature events like field days, walkathons, and bike to school days, to build connections and support healthy habits.
Assemblies: Athletes will speak about their academic and athletic journeys, offering motivation and insight into college life and balancing responsibilities.
Kids’ Day Out Basketball Game: More than 3,000 local elementary and middle school students are invited to visit Fairfield University each year to experience a women’s basketball game, campus life, and connect with peers from other schools.
Lil’ Stags Club: Designed to engage local children and foster a sense of school spirit, the Lil’ Stags Club includes fun events such as visits from Lucas the Stag to local schools. Lil’ Stags membership includes access to select Fairfield University Basketball games at Leo D. Mahoney Arena, along with admission to all other home games held on campus.
“This partnership allows us to build on the great resources in our community,” said Fairfield Public Schools Superintendent Michael J. Testani. “It provides our students with early exposure to the college experience, the chance to connect with positive role models, and the excitement of Division I athletics, all while highlighting the value of education and dedication.”
Fairfield University Athletics is launching this partnership during a time of record-breaking success. The Stags recently earned their second straight MAAC Commissioners Cup for overall competitive excellence and ranked in the top 10 nationally among I-AAA programs in the Learfield Directors’ Cup standings, earning a school-record eight conference championships and eight NCAA postseason berths during the 2024-25 season.
Academically, Fairfield student-athletes achieved a department-wide GPA of 3.57 for the 2024–25 academic year, with 136 perfect 4.0 GPAs across both semesters and 55% earning Dean’s List honors in the spring.
This momentum underscores Fairfield’s ongoing commitment to both excellence and its strong connection to the local community.
“Fairfield is a key contributor and economic driver to the Town of Fairfield,” said the university’s vice president for marketing and communications Jennifer Anderson. “We’re excited to deepen our partnership with our local schools and help create meaningful experiences that enrich students’ lives — both on our campus and in their classrooms.”
