FAIRFIELD, CT — Students at Sacred Heart University (SHU) are gaining valuable hands-on experience by assisting a local technology startup, WeSkreech, in preparation for its upcoming product launch.
Since last fall, WeSkreech, a company specializing in personal safety devices, has been working with SHU students on branding, marketing, sales, and operational strategies. The startup, founded by Shana Moore, has developed a personal safety alarm that utilizes patent-pending sonic technology designed to deter potential threats.
Moore and Larry Lopata, WeSkreech’s chief technical officer, have worked closely with students on SHU’s West Campus, providing a practical and immersive learning experience. This collaboration closely aligns with SHU’s commitment to community safety. SHU students also regularly collaborate with organizations such as the Center for Family Justice in Bridgeport, an organization that supports victims of domestic violence and promotes violence prevention.
“Our mission is profit with a purpose,” said Lopata. “We’ve been fortunate to work with such dedicated students who share our commitment to safety.”
Moore echoed the sentiment, highlighting the reciprocal benefits of the partnership. “As professionals from a different generation, we’ve learned as much from the students as they have from us,” she noted, adding, “It’s been a rewarding experience to work with such talented young professionals.”
For the students involved, the partnership is a chance to apply their academic knowledge and develop practical skills in their areas of study. Hailey Filera, a senior majoring in strategic communication, public relations, and advertising, has focused on creating and implementing the company’s social media strategy. “I’ve enjoyed creating content and applying what I’ve learned for a brand that prioritizes personal and community safety,” Filera stated.
Jeremy Knobel, a sophomore pursuing a double major in finance and business economics, also runs his own business. Knobel has been working on structuring WeSkreech’s sales operations. “Learning new strategies for sales and operations has been invaluable,” he remarked. “I’m excited to continue growing as WeSkreech expands.”
Nick Milidantri, a senior psychology major with minors in human resource management and global business management, was one of the first students to join the project. Today, he oversees the company’s daily operations. “Being part of WeSkreech is the best hands-on experience any business student could ask for,” Milidantri explained, adding, “We’re gaining real-world experience in networking, goal setting, and entrepreneurship.”
The partnership reflects Sacred Heart University’s broader mission to integrate academic study with practical applications, providing students with the skills and experience needed to excel beyond the classroom.
