2025 Alumni Award Winner, Enzo Daci, On Celebrating the Individuals Behind the Scenes

In sharing my NAF journey, I want to celebrate the individuals behind the scenes who make it possible for so many students like me to succeed. 

My journey began my freshman year, with my Spanish teacher, who first guided me toward NAF. I met him shortly after I moved here from Albania. We had a special connection, because I barely spoke any English at the time, and he spoke a different language as well. When I expressed my interest in the business world, he encouraged me to transfer to the Academy of Finance at High School Inc., now known as Weaver High School.

There, I felt welcomed by everyone — from the students to the educators, and the business partners. The networking and internship opportunities were the most influential for me. Thanks to a connection with Michael Klein from Travelers, I sought out an internship with the company. 

This is how I discovered the Travelers EDGE Program, which really took my learning to the next level because it supported my college education. The scholarship not only provided financial support, but also allowed me to continue interning with Travelers. I did three internships throughout my college career with Travelers. The EDGE Program also connected me with mentors and like-minded students who became like family.

NAF had given me the connections and skills to get this far — and even after I graduated, and started full-time at Travelers, it still inspired me. I wanted to go back and help other students.

That’s why I joined the NAF advisory board at my former high school, where I lead the mentoring program, participate in career fairs, and just this year, coached students in a business case competition. They did so well, they were even invited to present their ideas to the Mayor of Hartford.

Among all these bright students, I meet some who are just like me. We connect over shared experiences, because I know what it feels like to be learning a new language, and to face the culture shock of a new country. It is so powerful to see them grow and succeed.

I’ve also created my own ways to support students. A friend and I started a soccer bootcamp that models the NAF experience. In addition to playing soccer, we bring in coaches to talk about college and professionals to talk about different career paths and workplace skills. 

I seek out these opportunities to give back to students because of the people who supported me when I was a student. This award truly belongs to them.

I share this award with my high school and their partnership with NAF, with the educators who taught me essential soft skills and prepared me for a successful college journey, and with my colleagues at Travelers, who provided countless opportunities to apply those skills. And, of course, with my family and friends who supported me along the way.

To all of you, please accept a round of applause for everything you do, enabling me to stand here and share your success story.