STCC art students win scholarships to Hartford Art School

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Four outstanding art students at Springfield Technical Community College were awarded prestigious scholarships at the 2024 Community Showcase hosted by the University of Hartford’s Hartford Art School.

A reception, held on March 21, celebrated the exceptional talents and dedication of students from various institutions across the region.

Israel Martinez, Brandon Porter, Mark Schebell and Enaya'Ajahnae Ogletree, representing STCC, emerged as recipients of the Artistic Merit Community Award. Each student demonstrated exceptional creativity, skill and commitment to their craft, earning them scholarship awards ranging from $18,000 to $28,000 per year for four years.

STCC leaders congratulated the students for their achievement.

“These scholarships serve as a testament to the hard work and passion exhibited by our students throughout their academic journeys,” said Dr. Christopher Thuot, Vice President of Academic Affairs. “Their achievements reflect not only their individual talents but also the quality of education and support provided by STCC’s Fine Arts faculty.”

While STCC has a technical mission, the college also includes robust art programs to provide opportunities for students to explore their creativity and hone their artistic skills.

"We are immensely proud of Israel, Brandon, Mark and Enaya for their remarkable achievements," said Francie Riddle, professor and coordinator of the Fine Arts Program at STCC. "Their dedication to the arts and their academic excellence have rightfully earned them recognition and support from the Hartford Art School. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to them and look forward to witnessing their continued success in the field of art."

The scholarships awarded to these talented students will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping their futures, enabling them to pursue their artistic endeavors with greater freedom and opportunities for growth.

“I was extremely excited and shocked to have received such a generous merit scholarship from the University of Hartford’s Art School,” said Ogletree of Springfield. “Receiving this award has given me the privilege of continuing my education in painting and photography at an institution with great opportunities for creative success. I plan to graduate with a double major in both mediums and I see myself accomplishing this at Hartford Art School.”

She thanked her professors at STCC for their support.

“A special thank you to Professor Francie Riddle, who encouraged me to submit my work to the Community Showcase and supported me throughout this entire process. I couldn’t have done it without the influence of all my wonderful art professors these last two years,” Ogletree said. 

Schebell of Enfield said the STCC art faculty has encouraged him to work harder on his techniques. “I am beyond thrilled to be a part in this notable transition from STCC to Hartford,” he said.

Schebell offered this advice: “Don’t be finished with your work until you find the satisfaction you’re seeking.”

Porter of Chicopee said he was happy to receive recognition for his work.

“I hope this is the first step in a very long and exciting art career. I'm happy I'm being taught by such amazing and engaging art teachers after years of struggling to teach myself. All the art teachers have been super supportive and helpful. I'm truly thankful.”

In his artist statement, Martinez said art “serves as a constant companion, offering inspiration during moments of introspection and serving as a catalyst for creative expression.”

Riddle said, "Israel is an amazing artist who has a wonderful future ahead of him.”

Interested in applying to STCC? Visit stcc.edu/apply or call Admissions at (413) 755-3333.

About Springfield Technical Community College

STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.

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