Alumnus Hopes to Spark Inspiration in Fire Science Students

At a recent alumni panel and networking event, Chad Campanell ’99, a senior special agent and certified fire investigator for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, discussed his career with students preparing to follow in his footsteps.

Mach 25, 2019

By Renee Chmiel, Office of Marketing and Communications

When Chad Campanell ’99 returned to the University of New Haven for a recent fire science panel and networking event, he saw a lot of himself in the students he interacted with. Campanell told the students that he built the foundation for his success at the University, and he hopes that they will have the same experience.

"You never know when you’re going to provide a spark that lights a fire that inspires someone," said Campanell, a senior special agent and certified fire inspector for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). "These students may want to be working in a position like mine in 20 years, and it’s important as an alumnus to give back to the school that did so much for me, that enabled me to have my position at the ATF."

Hosted by the University’s Fire Science Club, the event began with a panel discussion featuring fire science alumni. Besides Campanell, students heard from representatives from several organizations, including the Zurich Insurance Group and the Orleans, Massachusetts, Fire Department.

"These students may want to be working in a position like mine in 20 years, and it’s important as an alumnus to give back to the school that did so much for me, that enabled me to have my position at the ATF."Chad Campanell ’99

"It is crucial for students to develop contacts in the industry," said Johnathan Matyasich ’20, a fire science major and president of the University’s Fire Science Club. "Bringing successful alumni back to campus is important and invaluable for students."

A networking event followed the panel, enabling current students to meet alumni and ask questions. Students said they appreciate their guidance, and they were glad to make these connections.

"There is so much support from alumni," said Michael Pegg ’19, a fire science major. "They are passionate about the University of New Haven, and it shows. This is an education like no other."