In the Fall of 2001, RJ Panda and Chris Dresko set out to change the face of UConn A Cappella by forming a group that excelled in musicality and performance presence. After long consideration, the name “Conn-Men” was chosen. The original members set a standard of excellence that is still upheld in the group today. Individual vocal development, originality, musicality, and loyalty to the group are just a few of the qualities set in place by the first Conn-Men.
The Conn-Men have been fortunate enough to be chosen for this year’s Ignite 2025 crowdfunding competition. The group has been participating in the competition for 2 years now, and past donations have been used to buy merchandise to wear for gigs, a new and dynamic sound system for better sound quality, and custom arrangements that show off our excellent musicality and love for a cappella. These donations have helped us entertain our listeners, and bring joy, love, and music appreciation to UConn as well as schools across the North-East.
This year donations will be going towards fundraising for our studio album, custom arrangements for the group, and purchasing another round of merchandise for our new group members to wear for performances alongside a plethora of other things to help us progress our goal of making A Capella fun. Any additional funds will be used for the general activities of the group.
To put into perspective, merchandise and arrangements cost us $3,500 last year. With your donation, you’ll be supporting our growth and allowing us to reach the potential that we have always been known to reach!
It is a long-standing tradition for our group to produce an album showing off the different eras of the Conn-Men and to add to the legacy of brotherhood and our love of music. We wish to start recording this summer and pay for lodging while doing it.
We hope to record during the summer and count on your support to win a piece of the $5,000 grand prize
To check out more of our group, consider following us on Instagram @uconnconnmen and our YouTube: uconnconnmen
From the bottom of our hearts we, the Conn-Men, thank you for considering a donation towards our cause!!
