This article is an excerpt from the Summer 2026 Talcott Continuum newsletter. Read the full newsletter here.
On Friday, May 29, members of the Talcott community gathered at the Farmington Polo Club for Talcott Together 2026, an evening dedicated to celebrating the people, experiences, and opportunities that make Talcott extraordinary.
We are grateful to share that, thanks to the generosity of our attendees, sponsors, donors, volunteers, and supporters, the event raised more than $100,000 in combined support of The Talcott Fund and the Talcott Brick Campaign.
These funds will help sustain and strengthen the educational experiences that have defined Talcott for generations, supporting hands-on STEM learning, innovative programs, faculty excellence, student opportunities, and the continued growth of our institution.
One of the highlights of the evening was the alumni panel, Where Curiosity Leads: An Alumni Conversation on the Future of STEM, moderated by Dr. Jay White, Director of the Talcott Mountain Research Institute. The panel featured Dr. Stephen Fantone (TMSC alumnus), Dr. Courtney Ackeifi (TMA ‘02, TMSC alumna), Bryce Adelstein Lelbach (TMA ‘05), and Yveson Hsiao (TMA ‘24). Their reflections on how Talcott shaped their intellectual curiosity, confidence, and career paths served as a powerful reminder that the impact of a Talcott education extends far beyond the classroom and continues long after graduation.
We were also honored to present the 2026 Young Alumni Innovator Award to Bryce Adelstein Lelbach (TMA ‘05). Presented annually at Talcott Together, the award recognizes emerging Talcott alumni who have demonstrated exceptional achievement, leadership, and innovation in their profession. Bryce, who is a Principal Software Engineer at NVIDIA, exemplifies the creativity, curiosity, and spirit of innovation that Talcott strives to cultivate in every student.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Talcott Together would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors. We extend our heartfelt thanks to:
Presenting Sponsor
- The Sandra and Arnold Chase Family Foundation, Inc.
Innovation Sponsors
- Brew Cap
- Pullman & Comley
- Rheumatology and Allergy Institute of Connecticut, LLC
Exploration Sponsors
- McCarter & English
- Petit Family Foundation
- Richard & Joyce Leibert
Student Table Sponsors
- Liljedahl Bros., Inc.
- Stephen & Elizabeth Fantone
Community Sponsors
- Advance Plumbing & Heating, Inc.
- Aegis Information Systems, LLC
- Diversified Building Services, LLC
- Evergreen Strategic Communications
As we reflect on this year’s celebration, we are filled with gratitude for the strength and generosity of the Talcott community. We are already looking forward to Talcott Together 2027 and to gathering once again to celebrate the connections, discoveries, and spirit of innovation that define Talcott. Thank you for being an important part of our story.
To view more photos from the event, click the button below.