the Michelle Gucik Advocacy Scholarship

Michelle Gucik, a proud Illinois native, earned her Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology from Lewis University. In 2021, she relocated to Connecticut to pursue her master’s degree in Criminal Justice at the University of New Haven. During her graduate studies, Michelle secured an internship with Hang Time, an organization focused on reentry, while also volunteering at the Rowan Center of Darien. Her immediate impact within Hang Time’s programs helped her become deeply integrated into the Bridgeport community. Known for her infectious smile and compassion, Michelle quickly earned admiration for her genuine care and dedication to those she worked with.

Upon earning her degree, Michelle was hired part-time by Hang Time and full-time by the Rowan Center, where she served as both a justice advocate and a crisis advocate. She earned certifications as a sexual assault crisis counselor and advocate, became a mandated reporter, and was trained as a sexual assault and rape crisis instructor. Michelle’s true passion lay in advocating for victims of sexual abuse and assault within Connecticut’s courts. Her life’s work became a mission to support others in need.

Tragically, Michelle’s life was cut short on March 2, 2024, at the age of 26 due to a sudden medical emergency. To honor her legacy, Hang Time LLC has established an annual paid academic scholarship for undergraduate students pursuing degrees in criminal justice and/or psychology at the University of New Haven. Two (2) students will be selected each year based on the submission of a 500-word essay that expresses their intent to work in mental health counseling after completing their degree, specifically focusing on supporting victims of sexual abuse and assault in Connecticut.

The selected students will be required to complete 120 hours of paid internship work with Hang Time in New Haven, Waterbury, Stamford, or Bridgeport. Upon successful completion of the internship, each student will receive an official referral letter for career opportunities in their chosen field.