Holiday Gift Guide: Sacred Heart University 2024 Edition

Every year brings a new slate of entertaining and thought-provoking events to the SHU Community Theatre in downtown Fairfield. Film screenings, discussions and live performances featuring some of the biggest names in entertainment inspire and educate SHU audiences and area visitors throughout the year. Why not consider purchasing a gift card or learning about a gift membership? Or pick up the tab on an upcoming theatrical, musical or dance performance at the John & Sabina Petillo Center for the Performing Arts or the Edgerton Center for the Performing Arts, such as A Christmas Carol—an adaptation written by nationally recognized alumni playwright Grace Caroline Curley, ‘23, and starring SHU alum John Ratzenberger as Scrooge. You could also consider a gift subscription. Along those lines, why not gift a “trip” to space through Sacred Heart University’s Discovery Science Center & Planetarium?

For those who love cheering on the home team, help them enjoy some top competition whether at the newly renovated William Pitt Athletic & Convocation Center or the Martire Family Arena. Pick up some tickets for SHU basketball or hockey and make it an event or gift them to a SHU fan in your life. Here’s a look at all of the upcoming SHU Athletic events.

Last year, we introduced you to the Teacher Tote, designed by Stephanie Doherty ’11, MS ’12 (along with her high school pal, Allison Panio). This year, they’ve added to the line with the Traveler Tote. With its removable cross-body strap and trolley sleeve, you’ll at least be guaranteed a smooth cruise with your luggage throughout the airport.

The transition from college to postgrad years can be challenging, as Michelle Lynn Johnson ’19, learned after graduating from SHU. Her new book, Shift Your Standards offers a how-to guide for those navigating life and next steps after college. With chapters that cover finding your purpose and living with courage, it just might be a guide for anyone looking for tips on how to thrive.

You might think having a child in the neonatal intensive care unit is not all that common. But as Paige Pedroli ’13 learned, it is an experience shared by many families. The first-time author’s two children spent time in the NICU, which inspired her children’s board book, Welcome to the NIC-Zoo. Pedroli hopes parents of NICU babies read it to their little ones who are recovering in the NICU, as well as older siblings at home.

George “Big G” Manesiotis took his passion for baking and turned it into a thriving cookie business in 2022. He’s long been a part of the Monday night social group led by SHU’s occupational therapy and communications disorders departments. With more than 16 varieties, from Sneakydoodle to Dark Magic, there is a flavor for everyone. Cookies are available for delivery or sold at events such as farmers’ markets and holiday events. Find out where Big G will be next or order through Instagram or his Facebook page. 

In 2024, Stelios Stavrianos ’15, founder of The CoreBev Group, launched Connecticut Distilling, the company’s new flagship distillery in Waterbury. It serves as a manufacturing facility and tasting lounge for the company’s line of products, including legacy spirits and five new products (which are available throughout Connecticut). These include a whiskey, Charred, made from beer, as well as blueberry rum made from Connecticut blueberries. For information on products, tasting hours and tours, visit Connecticut Distilling.

With new products arriving regularly, the lifestyle brand See the Way I See continues to showcase the efforts of founder Sophie Nistico ’21 to support mental health awareness and destigmatization. Her personal experience with anxiety and chronic migraines led to products including clothing, jewelry and accessories that she unveiled in 2023 on Shark Tank. Browse her line at See the Way I See.

NaturalAnnie Essentials was launched by founder and CEO Annya White-Brown ’12, who hand pours high-quality soy candles full of warmth and charm. Beyond her handcrafted fragrances, she offers a unique candle-making experience at her candle bar, where you can craft your own special moments. Gift others with the experience or plan a hands-on kids’ party or night out with friends and family at her Bridgeport studio.

The SHU in Dingle program is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a special trip, a Taste of Dingle, for alumni, staff, faculty and friends. Across nine-days, travelers will enjoy expert guided tours of Ireland’s Dingle Peninsula, from natural wonders to iconic scenes, as well as fun group outings. This might just be a gift for you! You can learn more about the trip on the Discover Dingle website.

At the SHU Bookstore, Pioneer-branded items are plentiful, from tumblers to sweatshirts, so that even when you are far from campus, you can show your SHU pride. In addition, you can find a selection of electronics, home decor items and lots in between. Check the website for daily deals and specials, as well as information about holiday shipping deadlines and ordering online for free pickup. Gift cards also are available.