News / Press

ACES Educational Center for the Arts to Host Connecticut Native and First-Ever “The Voice” Winner Javier Colón for Student Performance and Q&A

(Hamden, CT – February 2, 2026) — Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is excited to announce that ACES Educational Center for the Arts (ECA) will welcome Connecticut native and inaugural winner of NBC’s The Voice, Javier Colón, for a special on-campus visit on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. The event will take place in the Arts Hall at ECA, located at 55 Audubon Street, and will provide students and staff with an unforgettable afternoon of music, storytelling, and inspiration.

Javier Colon, best known as the inaugural winner of NBC’s The Voice, will perform a 90-minute solo acoustic set followed by an interactive Q&A session designed to engage students in meaningful conversation about creativity, perseverance, and the realities of a career in the arts. Colon’s visit aligns with ECA’s mission to provide authentic, real-world learning experiences that connect students directly with working professionals in creative fields.

“At ACES, we believe that transformative education happens when students are given access to authentic, real-world experiences,” said Dr. Thomas Danehy, Executive Director of ACES. “Welcoming an artist of Javier Colon’s caliber to ACES Educational Center for the Arts allows our students to see what is possible when passion, perseverance, and creativity come together. This visit exemplifies our commitment to nurturing talent and empowering students to pursue their dreams.”

The afternoon schedule will begin at 2:00 p.m. with remarks from the Bob Parker Foundation Fund from 2:00–2:20 p.m. Javier Colon’s performance and Q&A session will follow from 2:30–4:00 p.m.

“We are thrilled to welcome Javier Colon to ACES Educational Center for the Arts,” said Stefanie Savo, Principal of ACES Educational Center for the Arts. “Our students are deeply passionate about music and the arts, and having the opportunity to learn from an accomplished artist who has navigated both the creative process and the professional music industry is incredibly impactful. Experiences like this remind our students that their voices, stories, and talents truly matter.”

Born and raised in Connecticut, Colon has built a career rooted in authenticity and musical excellence. Beyond his national recognition, he is known for his commitment to mentorship, education, and inspiring the next generation of artists. His visit to ECA offers students a rare opportunity to connect with a successful artist who shares their regional roots and creative aspirations. 

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About ACES:

Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is the regional educational service center for New Haven and parts of Middlesex Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is the regional educational service center for New Haven and parts of Middlesex and Fairfield Counties. ACES serves school districts through innovative programs and services that meet the needs of a changing educational landscape. ACES operates magnet, special education, and alternative schools, as well as providing a wide range of educational services including professional development, transportation, translation, and adult vocational programs. Learn more at www.aces.org.