West Haven Fire Captain Achieves Milestone Degree
Jacob Urban, a 45-year-old training captain in West Haven’s Center Fire District, is making headlines as the first responder in the city to earn a tuition-free online bachelor’s degree from the University of New Haven (UNH). This program, launched last fall, aims to support police officers, dispatchers, and firefighters in advancing their education.
“We started this initiative to give our first responders a chance to further their education without the burden of financial stress,” said Mayor Dorinda Borer during the program’s announcement. The partnership with UNH also extends benefits to all high school graduates in West Haven, reflecting a broader commitment to education.
Urban achieved this milestone in just one year. With an associate’s degree from Eastern Kentucky University already in hand, he was able to leverage his professional experience to earn credits towards his new degree in paramedicine. During the holiday intersession, he took extra classes to stay on track.
In May, Urban will walk across the stage at graduation. While he still needs to complete some summer credits, he’s already looking ahead. “I’m considering a master’s in business administration to enhance my career,” he shares. Urban sees the connection between business practices and his role in fire management, where effective organizational skills are essential.
His journey is more than personal ambition. Urban wants to set a strong example for his three sons, aged 12, 10, and 8. “I want them to see the value of education,” he says. As a training captain, Urban also focuses on retention, emphasizing how programs like this can attract and keep talented individuals in the fire department.
Borer views the initiative as a strategic recruitment asset. “Investing in education is key for public safety and the city’s future,” she explains. Urban’s success story may inspire future recruits to pursue further studies, as he’s already heard from recent graduates eager to continue their education.
This partnership reflects a stronger bond between West Haven and UNH, promoting educational opportunities for all. UNH President Jens Frederiksen notes the importance of adapting to changes in higher education. “Educational institutions must rethink their role in today’s landscape,” he asserts, indicating a shift towards inclusive programs.
In summary, Jacob Urban’s journey illustrates the positive impact of community-based education initiatives, showing how they can empower individuals while benefiting the broader community.
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New Haven Register
