The following are archived communications from President Maduko to the CT State community.
2024
September 30, 2024: Celebrating a Major Enrollment Achievement at CT State Community College
Dear CT State Colleagues and Friends, I am thrilled to share some remarkable news regarding our enrollment for this semester. CT State Community College has achieved a significant milestone in student enrollment thanks to the hard work and unwavering commitment of our dedicated faculty, staff, and student ambassadors. This success reflects not only the strength of our collective efforts but also our steadfast mission to provide accessible and exceptional educational opportunities to all. I am proud to announce that we have seen a 4% increase in student enrollment across our campuses—collectively, this is our first year-over-year increase since Fall 2012. That’s 12 years of resilience in the face of major challenges, including the global pandemic. Additionally, this marks the largest enrollment growth rate since the Fall of 2010! A total of 36,315 credit students have chosen to join or return to CT State! Our latest census data provides encouraging insights into the makeup of our student body, showcasing the diversity, resilience, and determination that fuel our institution. Part-time enrollment has risen by 6%, bringing the total number of part-time students to 24,385. Notably, Hispanic/Latine students have increased by 11%, followed closely by a 9% rise in Black/African American students. Additionally, we have seen an 8% increase in BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) students compared to Fall 2023. These numbers reflect the richness of diversity within our student population and reaffirm our commitment to fostering an inclusive community where everyone belongs. Moreover, our adult learners (aged 25 and older) saw a 13% increase, and transfers to CT State increased by 11%, demonstrating that we are meeting the growing need for affordable and accessible education. While full-time enrollment experienced a slight 1% decrease, holding steady at 11,930, we maintained a consistent number of traditional-age learners (18-24), reflecting our ability to support students at all stages of their educational journey. With more good news, 89% of students remain enrolled in associate degree programs, while enrollment in certificate programs saw a noteworthy 14% increase over Fall 2023. “These accomplishments reflect not only our unwavering dedication to delivering an outstanding educational experience but also the hard work and collaboration of our incredible faculty and staff,” said Dr. Tamika Davis, Interim Vice President of Enrollment Management. “With higher enrollment, increased FAFSA completions, and a more diverse student population, CT State continues to embody our commitment to accessible, high-quality education for all students, regardless of their background.” I would also like to recognize the outstanding contributions of our Strategic Marketing and Communications Department and our partners at Odonnell Company. Their data-driven campaigns, combined with our inviting campuses, have expanded CT State’s reach, elevated our brand awareness, and reinforced our mission to put students at the center of everything we do. Together, we are shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for our students, institution, and state. I extend my deepest gratitude to each of you for your contributions, and I look forward to continuing this vital work alongside you. #CTStateProud
In Partnership,
O. John Maduko, M.D.
President
Connecticut State Community College
September 27, 2024: Join the Open Forums for the Vice President of Enrollment Management Candidates
September 27, 2024
Dear CT State Community, We are pleased to invite all members of the CT State Community to engage in virtual open forum sessions for the finalists in our search for the next Vice President of Enrollment Management. The search committee has been co-chaired by CT State Manchester Campus CEO Nicole Esposito, Ed.D., and CT State Middlesex Campus CEO Kim Hogan, with valuable support from the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) search consultants to support the search process. We appreciate the dedication and participation of the search committee members. The virtual open forums are a crucial part of our selection process. They offer an opportunity for you to meet the finalists, hear their vision, and engage in dialogue that will shape the future of enrollment management at CT State. Your input is vital as we seek a leader who aligns with our mission to enhance student success and institutional excellence. Each finalist will provide their vision for enrollment management at a designated virtual open forum, and we encourage your participation. The forums will take place next week. Details regarding the schedule, virtual format, and how to submit feedback are available on the Vice President of Enrollment Search webpage. Links to join the forums will go live shortly before each forum, and the survey links will go live after the forum concludes and will remain live for 48 hours. Sincerely,
John Maduko
President
Connecticut State Community College
September 12: Announcement of Appointment: Anna Krupitskiy as Vice President of Human Resources
Dear CT State Community,
It is with great excitement that I announce the appointment of Anna Krupitskiy as the inaugural Vice President of Human Resources at Connecticut State Community College. Anna will lead the establishment of the Division of Human Resources, bringing with her over 20 years of extensive professional experience across non-profit, for-profit, and higher education sectors.
Anna’s career is distinguished by her unwavering commitment to public service, social justice, and fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging within the institutions she has served. As a seasoned leader, she has demonstrated a collaborative and strategic-oriented approach that has consistently yielded successful outcomes.
In her most recent role as Vice President for Human Resources at Hudson County Community College (HCCC) in New Jersey, Anna led transformative initiatives that significantly impacted the college’s workforce and culture. HCCC, serving a diverse student body across multiple campuses in Jersey City, Union City, and Secaucus, has been recognized under Anna’s leadership as a “Great College to Work For” and a “Most Promising Place to Work For in Community Colleges” for three consecutive years (2022, 2023, 2024). Her leadership also brought the college to the forefront as a Top 10 Finalist at the Bellwether College Consortium in both 2023 and 2024 for its diversity, equity, and inclusion practices.
Anna is particularly proud of her work with Jersey City community partners and the greater Hudson County during her time at HCCC. Her ability to build strong community relationships and collaborate with local partners was instrumental in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for both students and employees.
At HCCC, Anna successfully led and coordinated collective bargaining negotiations for four units in both 2019 and 2022, resulting in multi-year contracts that reinforced a momentum of collegiality and collaboration with the bargaining units. Her ability to foster transparent communication and maintain strong relationships with collective bargaining units has been a cornerstone of her success in these multi-campus environments.
Before joining HCCC, Anna served in leadership roles at Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC), part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system, one of the largest community colleges in the nation, serving over 26,000 students. At both HCCC and BMCC, Anna successfully navigated the complexities of multi-campus environments, overseeing human resources operations across various locations.
Anna’s personal background is equally compelling. With an upbringing in Ukraine and having traveled extensively, she considers herself a citizen of the world. Her global experiences have enriched her worldview, allowing her to connect with diverse communities and foster inclusive environments wherever she serves. Most proudly, Anna is a mother of two, balancing her professional achievements with her commitment to family.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Anna is multilingual, fluent in Russian and possessing a working knowledge of Ukrainian and French. Her ability to engage with diverse populations is further enriched by her linguistic skills, allowing her to communicate effectively in various cultural contexts.
Anna holds a JD from New York Law School, an LL.M. in International Human Rights Law from the University of Essex, an MPA in Nonprofit Management from Pace University, and a BBA in Marketing, also from Pace University. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Planning and Public Policy at Rutgers University. In addition to her academic credentials, Anna is a certified SHRM-SCP and has presented at numerous national conferences, including the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CUPA-HR).
We are confident that Anna’s leadership will be instrumental in advancing the college’s strategic priorities, particularly in fostering an inclusive, equitable, and supportive work environment for all CT State employees. Please join me in welcoming Anna Krupitskiy to our CT State family.
In Partnership,
John Maduko
President
Connecticut State Community College
September 11: Honoring the Legacy of 9/11
Dear CT State Community,
On the anniversary of September 11, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the profound impact this day has had on our lives, country, and world. Though 23 years have passed, the events of that day remain vivid in our hearts and minds. September 11 not only altered the course of history but also touched countless lives in deeply personal ways. On this solemn day, we honor the memory of those we lost and the families whose lives were forever changed. We pay tribute to the brave first responders and ordinary citizens who risked their lives to save others and the many who came together to support one another in the aftermath of the tragedy. Their heroism and spirit of resilience continue to inspire us today. We must also reflect on the strength and unity that emerged from such adversity—a testament to the enduring power of coming together in challenging times and the remarkable achievements possible when we do. September 11 serves as a reminder of our shared humanity. As we observe the significance of its anniversary, let us reaffirm our commitment to fostering a world built on greater understanding, inclusivity, peace, and mutual respect. Thank you for being such an essential part of our college community. I encourage you to take a moment to honor and remember in your own way. May we continue to support and uplift one another, cherishing the legacy of those we lost by nurturing a spirit of togetherness and hope.
John Maduko
President
Connecticut State Community College
September 3: Welcome Back Video from President Maduko
Dear CT State Community, Please enjoy this video from President Maduko as he welcomes back faculty and staff for the Fall semester. President Maduko stresses, among other things, that the core of our mission is a culture of care for both our students and our employees. He asks that we reaffirm our pledge to our students to provide an inclusive, safe and caring learning environment that embraces diversity and lived experience.
John Maduko
President
Connecticut State Community College
July 26: Welcoming Our New Chief of Staff, Tom Yelich
Dear CT State Community,I am delighted to announce that Tom Yelich has been appointed as the new Chief of Staff at Connecticut State Community College, effective September 6. Tom brings over a decade of high-level experience in communications, public administration, organizational management, and community relations, making him an exceptional addition to our team. Tom joins us from Trinity College, where he has been serving as the Deputy Chief of Staff. In this role, he has been pivotal in supporting the Office of the President and the President’s cabinet. Tom has managed presidential communications, collaborated with senior leaders to advance the college’s mission and strategic plan, and fostered strong relationships with internal and external audiences. He has played a vital role in accreditation processes through the New England Commission of Higher Education. He has assisted in administering the Board of Trustees and the college’s governance initiatives. His leadership extended to co-chairing the college’s emergency management team, ensuring preparedness and timely response to critical issues. Before his tenure at Trinity College, Tom served as a Public Information Officer and Assistant to the Chief of Police for the City of Champaign. In this capacity, he advised the chief of police on strategic planning, policy matters, and public safety communications. He played a crucial role in building trust between law enforcement and the local community and was a member of the city’s leadership communications team during the COVID-19 pandemic. Tom's career began in the sports industry, where he worked at the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and USA Football. He led public relations efforts, promoted youth sports safety, and positioned the organizations as thought leaders in the field. A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Tom deployed overseas twice and was recognized as the runner-up for Junior Sailor of the Year at his command. His military service taught him the value of collaboration, flexibility, hard work, diversity, and inclusion, which he continues to bring to his professional endeavors. Tom graduated with honors from the University of North Florida with a bachelor of science degree in Communication and Political Science, and a master of public affairs degree (MPA) from the University of Missouri, where he was inducted into the Pi Alpha Alpha honor society for academic excellence. As Chief of Staff, Tom will play a crucial role in facilitating the execution of our strategic initiatives, coordinating with various departments, and ensuring effective communication and collaboration across the college. His leadership will be vital as we continue to address the needs of our students and community, and I am confident that his contributions will significantly enhance our institution. Please join me in welcoming Tom Yelich to Connecticut State Community College. We look forward to his leadership and the positive impact he will have on our college community. In Partnership, O. John Maduko, M.D.
President
July 8: CT State Transitional Announcements
Dear CT State Colleagues and Friends,
I am writing to inform you of an important leadership transition at the Gateway campus. Dr. Scott Kalicki’s contracted service with CT State Community College as Interim Campus CEO has concluded per the service contract terms between an external agency and CT State. Effective July 26, Dr. Tom Coley, who recently retired, has agreed to step in as Interim Campus CEO through the Fall 2024 semester. We are eager to begin the national search for the permanent CT State Gateway Campus CEO.
As we all know, Dr. Coley brings a wealth of experience, having served in various executive leadership roles over the past five years, including his recent Executive Vice President role, and formally the Shoreline-West Regional President. His steadfast leadership has been a significant asset to our College, and we look forward to his guidance as we navigate this transition and continue to advance the needs of the Gateway campus.
In the interim period before Dr. Coley's arrival, a collective team of central office leaders, including Dr. John Paul Chaisson-Cardenas, will provide onsite leadership.
As CT State enters its second year, we remain committed to aligning our capacities to meet the needs of our students and employees across all locations. Currently, we are actively searching for the following leadership roles:
- Vice President of Human Resources
- Vice President of Enrollment Management
- CT State Gateway Campus CEO
With Dr. Coley’s retirement as Executive Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Enterprise Performance, my office will repurpose that role to align with current strategic needs and cost-saving measures. These adjustments will be announced at a later date. Effective immediately, Dr. J.D. Mathewson, Associate Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness and Planning and the Division of Institutional Research will report to Acting Provost Dr. Karen Hynick under the Division of Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, and Workforce Innovation. This restructuring is part of our preparation for NECHE’s focused site visit in April 2025.
Additionally, Dr. Molly Lauk, Executive Director of Sponsored Programs, and her oversight of the Office of Sponsored Programs, which includes grants operations, will now report to Kerry Kelly within the Division of Finance and Administration.
With the recent departure of Dr. Terry Brown, interim AVP of Strategic Operations and Partnership Development, and Dr. Justin Moore’s transition from Dean of the School of Engineering and Technology to CT State Naugatuck Valley Dean of Faculty, the AVP of Strategic Operations and Partnership Development and School Dean of Engineering and Technology roles will not be backfilled. This decision supports our ongoing efforts to redistribute responsibilities and reduce administrative expenditures.
Provost Hynick will share updates on academic affairs, student affairs, and workforce innovation leadership during Fall 2024.
I understand and recognize that these changes and transitions are disruptive. I appreciate your patience and understanding as the administration diligently works to stabilize our campuses and college-wide functional areas.
We will continue to provide updates over the summer months as new developments arise.
In Partnership,
John Maduko
President
Connecticut State Community College
June 7: June News and Updates From President Maduko
Please watch this video with news and updates from President Maduko.
In this recording, President Maduko thanks the faculty, staff and leadership of CT State for their steadfast support of our students. He emphasizes the significance of being an open-door college and highlights how CT State offers equitable and transformative education to students, regardless of their backgrounds and circumstances. (Watch on Youtube)
Video Transcript:
Timecode | Audio | Visuals |
0:00-0:00:08 | As we bring this inaugural year as a united college to a close, I want to take a moment to express my deep and heartfelt gratitude to our entire faculty, staff, and leadership team. Your unwavering dedication and commitment have made this year possible despite the many challenges and new realities we have faced. Throughout the year, our faculty and staff have demonstrated extraordinary resilience and an unwavering commitment to our students. CT State is the engine for social and economic mobility, powered by the transformative potential of education. Your efforts have ensured that this engine continues to run, providing opportunities and hope for countless individuals across our state. As we pause to recharge, reflect, and assess, it is also time to prepare for the upcoming 2024-2025 academic year and the Fall 2024 semester. Words cannot fully convey my appreciation for the privilege of serving alongside educators, practitioners, and leaders who embody the principles of student-centered and equity-minded education. We have witnessed countless examples of student success and academic excellence | President John Maduko sits at his office desk, speaking directly to the camera. His hands are crossed, and he wears a blue suit top. |
0:01:15-0:01:21 | driven by the brilliance and dedication of professionals across our campuses and locations. Your hard work and passion have not gone unnoticed, and I am incredibly proud of all that we have achieved together. | Image of Inaugural Commencement Exercises invitation, replaced by video montage of scenes from several of campus graduations in 2024. |
0:01:31-0:01:36 | As we reflect on our role within the broader landscape of higher education, it is essential to recognize the unique and vital position that community colleges hold. We are not Harvard, and that is a good thing. Community colleges, including CT State, serve as America's open-door colleges. We provide access to education for all, fostering inclusivity and diversity.Our open-door policy ensures that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the opportunity to pursue their dreams and achieve their potential. CT State Community College stands out as a beacon of hope and opportunity. We are different because we are deeply rooted in our communities, responsive to their needs, and committed to their success. We offer practical, hands-on education that prepares our students for the workforce while also providing a strong foundation for those who wish to continue their academic journeys. In closing, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you. Your dedication, hard work, and passion have made this year a success, and I am confident that together,we will continue to achieve great things in the years to come. Thank you for all that you do. It is an honor to serve as your president. | Back to President Maduko at desk |
0:02:43-0:02:47 | Thank you! | CT State Community College logo |
May 10, 2024: False Alarm at Housatonic on the Evening of May 9
Dear CT State Community,
Last night, a call was made into the Bridgeport Police Department regarding a potential active shooter on the Housatonic campus.The Bridgeport and Housatonic police departments immediately responded. It was quickly determined to be a false alarm, and the result of a miscommunication between a parent and child on a phone call. Both persons were connected to an external event being hosted on the campus.
Housatonic is safe. Last night’s incident was a false alarm, and there was never a threat to the campus community.We are grateful to our Campus Police Department, Chief Chute, Captain Cotto, and the Bridgeport Police Department for their swift response and continual work to keep our campuses safe.
Due to the sensitive nature of this matter, the campus will provide counseling support services to students and employees who require additional support.If you or someone you know needs support, we encourage you to also take advantage of the free available Employee Assistance Program (EAP). CT State’s EAP provider is the Lexington Group. You can reach them by phone at 1-800-676-HELP or via their website. Additional information can be found in the attached letter and brochure. Resources for students have also been attached and include TimelyCareFAQs as well as information on Campus Counselors. In the case of a mental health crisis, you can also dial 988.
Campus leadership will also work with the campus senate leadership on a process to debrief on last night’s incident.
Sincerely,
John Maduko, M.D.
President
Dear CT State Colleagues and Friends,
It is with mixed emotions that I share the news of Dr. Levy Brown stepping down as our Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, and Workforce Innovation. Although we are saddened to see him leave, we support his decision and congratulate and wish him well as he transitions into his new role as Vice President of Student Services at a soon to be named college in the North Carolina Community College System. A native son of North Carolina, this move allows Levy to return to his home state and support his local communities
Levy will remain with us until June 9, 2024, to ensure a smooth transition during the final moments of the spring semester. Dr. Brown has been a cornerstone of our leadership team since joining CT State in June 2023. He has shown unwavering dedication to our mission and has played a critical role in advancing academic initiatives. His steadfast commitment to advocating for our students, faculty, and staff, as well as his ability to engage with our internal and external stakeholders, has made him an invaluable part of our college.
Highlighted below are a few of the key areas of accomplishment Levy’s leadership yielded during his time with us.
Academic Affairs
- The Office of the Provost and team supported Curriculum Congress in reviewing an estimated 252 proposals to date, including 171 course proposals, 64 academic program proposals and 17 AP Exam Equivalences, and 2 new program proposals in Practical Nursing and Plastic Injection Molding.
Workforce Innovation (Workforce Development and Continuing Education)
- Collaboratively supported programs and courses that served 12,097 (duplicated count) students.
Fostering engagement opportunities for key constituencies to provide input and feedback on our strategic priorities for our continuous improvement purposes.
- Launching of Council of Faculty, Advanced Manufacturing Council, Workforce Development Council
- Co- Facilitating the newly established Council of Student Services and Experiences and Early College Taskforce
- Strengthening our Academic Dean’s Council and Dean of Student Affairs Council
- Created and implemented the new role of Interim Executive Dean of Policy, Governance, and Special Projects to foster increased communications with governance leaders and to better support the new governance structure among other key areas.
Organizational Development and Division Structure
- Developed structure of the newly formed Division of Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, and Workforce Innovations
- Created and implemented the roles of Executive Dean of Workforce Innovations and Partnerships and the new role of Interim Executive Dean of Academic Success and Strategic Operations/Dean of the School of Math and Science.
External Partnerships and Achievements of Impact
- Provost Brown led the work in collaboration with the Office of the President and other leaders to successfully launch the CT State Business Roundtable Series during Spring 2024. The CT State Business Roundtables were conducted at the request of the Office of Governor Ned Lamont. External partners included the Governor’s Office, OWS, and Advance CT.
Levy's leadership has been exemplary, providing us with thoughtful guidance and serving as a trusted advisor. His ability to tackle complex issues with integrity and conviction has been a tremendous asset to our college. I am grateful for his support, and his work has undoubtedly helped us navigate many challenges.
Please join me in expressing our appreciation to Levy for his outstanding service to CT State. We wish him every success in his future endeavors.
With this change, I'm pleased to announce that Dr. Karen Hynick has been appointed as Acting Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, and Workforce Innovation for a two-year term beginning June 10, 2024. A national search to fill the permanent Provost position will commence in 2026.
Dr. Hynick brings a wealth of experience to her new role. As the Campus CEO for CT State Quinebaug Valley, her leadership has been instrumental in fostering significant achievements, including enrollment growth, strategic planning, and successful reaccreditation. Her expertise and extensive experience in community college leadership, academic program development, and dual enrollment initiatives make her an excellent fit for this position.
Dr. Hynick's journey in education is both inspiring and remarkable. Her breadth of knowledge and dedication to education will undoubtedly benefit CT State as we move forward.
Dr. Hynick is a skilled and seasoned educator with over twenty years of community college leadership experience and significant outcomes to draw from as she enters this new role. In July 2021, Dr. Hynick was selected as the CEO of Quinebaug Valley Community College. She led their transition to CT State Quinebaug Valley.
During her tenure:
- CT State Quinebaug Valley experienced positive enrollment gains semester-after-semester.
- Launched a strategic plan for QVCC.
- Garnered a philanthropic donation of the Willimantic instructional site which revitalized programming in Willimantic.
- Led a successful NECHE site visit and reaccreditation for Quinebaug Valley CC.
- Expanded partnerships with local school districts including the co-located Quinebaug Middle College.
- Worked with NC-Sara to have ten programs approved to be offered fully online.
- Fostered a partnership with the Race Equity and Justice Institute to provide a more focused emphasis on DEI professional development.
- Began the work to develop CT State’s first practical nursing (LPN) program.
- Co-chaired of the Early College Taskforce with Provost Brown, resulting in an emerging dual enrollment policy and procedure expected to go through the CT State Academic Senate in May and onto the Board of Regents in June.
Prior to coming to CT State, Dr. Hynick served as the Vice President of Academic Affairs for North Shore Community College (Massachusetts) for seven years. During her tenure there she led their institution through a successful NECHE reaccreditation study and numerous programmatic reaccreditations, the development and implementation of the college’s inaugural master academic plan, launched new academic programs in Funeral Services and Entrepreneurship, led efforts for their academic and advising redesigns in alignment with national best practices in guided pathways to include non-credit to credit articulation and transparent crosswalks, secured a multi-million-dollar title IV grant, and a five million dollar philanthropic grant for their Health Care Simulation Center.
Her work with their faculty yielded a newly redesigned academic program review model, culminating with the identification and assessment of student and programmatic learning outcomes at the course and program level. Her team led North Shore Community College’s leadership role in Massachusetts Community College’s statewide credit for prior learning program, My Experience Counts. Dr. Hynick also led North Shore Community College’s formation of their early college programs with the Lynn and Essex Technical High School and co-led the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education's Dual Enrollment Taskforce.
Prior to coming to North Shore Community College, Dr. Hynick spent almost a decade in Minnesota, within the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system, first as a Dean of Academic Affairs at Minneapolis Community and Technical College for six years and then as the System Director of P-20 for the system office. During her tenure, her efforts led to new legislation and scale in dual and concurrent enrollment, credit for prior learning, and the redesign of developmental education.
Dr. Hynick began her teaching career in the Department of Youth Services in Massachusetts, teaching incarcerated youth. She spent eight years as a high school history teacher and department chair of Social Studies at Leominster High School, also in Massachusetts. Her depth and experiences in the educational ecosystem will no doubt make her an invaluable asset to CT State as our new Acting Provost.
Please join me in welcoming Dr. Hynick to her new role. We look forward to her leadership and the positive impact she will have on our college community.
More information will be forthcoming regarding transition campus leadership plans for CT State Quinebaug Valley.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to CT State.
John Maduko, M.D. (he/him/his)
PresidentConnecticut State Community College
Dear CT State - Colleagues and Friends,
I wish to inform you of a recent incident that occurred at our CT State - Asnuntuck campus and provide you with important safety updates. The CT State - Asnuntuck campus community (employees and students) received a similar message prior to this college-wide announcement.
Earlier today, at approximately 8:00 am, the Connecticut State Police K9 Explosive Detection team conducted a pre-emptive sweep of the CT State - Asnuntuck campus to locate any potential explosives. This action was taken in response to a potential bomb threat aimed at disrupting an event on campus scheduled for the day. The sweep concluded at 9:15 am, with no explosives found.
The event on campus proceeded without incident and concluded around 12:00 noon.
However, at 1:22 pm, our CT State - Asnuntuck campus security site manager received a phone call from an NBC Worldwide affiliate in New York City, indicating that they had received an email about a bomb threat to the CT State - Asnuntuck campus. The email, sent to NBC at 9:21 am, claimed there were explosives on the campus, set to detonate at 10:00 pm. This communication came shortly after the Connecticut State Police K9 team completed its sweep.
Out of an abundance of caution, the Hartford Police K9 Explosive Detection team conducted a secondary sweep of the CT State - Asnuntuck campus. No explosives were found, and the threat was deemed not credible.
The safety and security of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors are our top priority.
Our CT State Community College Police Department, led by Chief Christopher Chute, is working closely with law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate the source of the threatening email and alleged threats.
CT State administration including CT State - Asnuntuck CEO Michelle Coach has been in constant communication with our College police department. All necessary precautions have been taken to ensure the safety and security of everyone on the CT State - Asnuntuck campus. Heightened security measures will remain in place as needed.
We appreciate the cooperation and patience of our CT State - Asnuntuck campus community during this time. Please rest assured that we are committed to maintaining a safe learning environment for all.
The paramount concern of our college is the safety and security of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors. We have taken all necessary precautions to safeguard their well-being.
Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
John Maduko, M.D.
President
Greetings, CT State College Community,
The CSCU system office is reviewing a matter regarding a recent interaction at CT State Housatonic. It is important to me to address this matter directly and transparently withtheentireCT Statecommunity.
My goal, as always, is to engage in meaningful and thought-provoking discussions that challenge us to think critically and grow intellectually.I want to reiterate my unwavering commitment to fostering an atmosphere where free speech and open discourse are encouraged and celebrated. Our institution prides itself on being a place where diverse perspectives can be expressed and debated constructively and respectfully. This principle is foundational to our mission and critical to our success as a community of scholars and learners.
The CSCU system office is initiatinga review of this matter to ensure that all facts are assessed thoroughly. This step reflects our commitment to transparency and accountability. We aim to resolve any concerns swiftly and fairly, reinforcing our dedication to upholding the highest standards of conduct, including the office of the CT State President.
I am committed to ensuring that our campuses remainsafe and welcoming spacesfor all students, faculty, staff, and visitors. To this end, I welcome ongoing dialogue on how we can continuously improve our communication and interactions. Please feel free to reach out to my office directly with any concerns or suggestions you may have. If you’d prefer to contact the CSCU system office directly, please direct your concerns and suggestions to Ms. Lori Lamb, Interim Vice Chancellor of Human Resources and Labor Relations, at lori.lamb@ct.edu.
Thank you for your continued dedication to makingCT Statea place where all voices are heard. I look forward to our collective efforts to nurture an environment of mutual respect and understanding.
In Partnership,
O. John Maduko, M.D.
President
Greetings, CT State Colleagues and Friends,
As we wrap up the month of March, there has been tremendous activity across the college and our statewide locations. I have had the privilege to witness student academic excellence and perseverance, scholarly activity on the part of our world-class faculty, above and beyond student support from our stellar professional staff, and servant leadership by our campus and central office leaders. Every day, our college community advances the state's and surrounding communities' needs.
Legislative Campus Events
Our Legislative Breakfast events are campus-based forums designed to help our elected officials learn about our CT State’s key issues, share points of pride related to our student's success, and ask questions of campus, college, and system office leaders. Since early this semester, we have held 11 out of 12 Legislative Breakfasts, with one remaining (CT State Quinebaug Valley on April 2). Our legislators and attendees have provided the college with great feedback regarding the effectiveness of our storytelling and CT State Fast Facts.
Some of those details include:
- Student demographics (66% part-time, 60% students of color, 85% receiving some form of financial aid, 78% degree-seeking, 98% Connecticut residents, and over 90% of graduates remain in Connecticut)
- Connecticut’s leader in workforce development with 3,800 students in nursing and health professions programs, 2,500 IT students, and 1,400 manufacturing students annually
- Connecticut’s leader in manufacturing training with 10 (will be 11) of our locations providing training
- Diversified academic portfolio with 14,000 students in general studies and 10,000 students in liberal arts and STEM; over 120 workforce development programs
- Over 8,000 dual enrollment students across 181 partner high schools
- You can find ourFast Facts online.
With the Connecticut General Assembly Regular Legislative Session adjourning on May 8, there is still time to advocate for more investments for CT State and the entire CSCU system, which includes a $47.6 million ask in additional funding to the remaining FY25 deficits for CT State ($41.3 million) and Western Connecticut State University ($6.3 million).
Dual Enrollment
CT State continues its efforts to establish an early college/dual enrollment framework and policy. So far this academic year, the Office of the President has held two quarterly CT State Executive Leadership Advisory Council for K-12 meetings with superintendents and K-12 leaders from across the state to lend their expertise, needs, and guidance. A draft CT State Early College/Dual Policy has been established that will be shared for review by various stakeholders (i.e., the President’s Cabinet, Advisory Council members, and the College Senate). The goal is to codify policy before the end of the academic year and work towards it during the next fiscal year (FY25).
Enrollment Management
For two consecutive academic years, we have experienced flat and nearly flat enrollment, which has been a positive example of the resilience of our staff and faculty despite the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and enrollment challenges for the majority of community colleges nationwide. As we plan and strategize for the Fall 2024 semester and 2024-2025 academic year, we have a goal of a 5% increase in credit student enrollment for Fall 2024 compared to Fall 2023. At the fall census, we enrolled 34,991 students, so approximately 35,000, and a 5% increase would be 1,750 students for a goal of 36,750 Fall 2024 credit students.
The college partnered with Ferrilli, a higher education technology consultant, to conduct an enrollment operations gap analysis. Ferrilli will provide a final report with recommendations that we will incorporate into our enrollment management strategies and campaigns for the upcoming academic year.
Commencement
Commencement season is around the corner, and I look forward to the first-ever graduation ceremonies as CT State. The commencement workgroup has completed tremendous work, finalizing details from diploma design to student regalia, academic recognition, curricular school banners, and more. More information about our commencement ceremonies is available online.
Public Safety and Emergency Management
Led by the efforts of CT State Police Chief Christopher Chute and our sworn officers and public safety staff, earlier this year CT State’s Police Department received Tier I Accreditation per the Connecticut Police Officer Standards and Training Council (POST-C). POST-C accreditation is designed to provide Connecticut law enforcement agencies with a process that demonstrates the ability to provide accountability, transparency, and quality services by police officers in their communities. As the largest institution of higher education in Connecticut, public safety is a top priority for CT State and its students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Joining the State of Connecticut’s POST-C Accreditation program is a testament to our CT State Police Department and its ability to perform under high standards, which will shape lasting practices and positively contribute to the department’s commitment to serving our statewide campus communities.
NECHE Focused Visit Spring 2025
As a condition of CT State’s Initial Accreditation, granted by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) on July 1, 2023, the college will undergo a focused evaluation in Spring 2025, including visits to each of our 12 campuses. The comprehensive evaluation of CT State, which was originally scheduled for Fall 2025, is rescheduled to Fall 2027.
I have appointed Provost Levy Brown, Dr. Mary Ellen Jukoski, Dr. Michael Rooke, and Dr. J.D. Mathewson as co-leads for the CT State NECHE Steering Committee. Provost Brown has a wealth of experience from a community college system and institutional leadership perspective regarding comprehensive accreditation site visits and evaluations. Dr. Jukoski has vast experience as president of multiple institutions and serving as a former NECHE Commissioner. Dr. Rooke has extensive experience with NECHE from an institutional president’s role and years of experience as a senior leader with our former colleges, and he has been instrumental in leading the efforts to compile our previous NECHE progress reports. Dr. Mathewson is our Associate Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness and Planning and our official accreditation liaison to NECHE. His tenure with our Institutional Research leaders has augmented the college’s capacity to perform high-level analysis and research across all major functional areas. This team of leaders, with my cabinet and in partnership with the College Senate, will identify a diverse representation of stakeholders from across our campuses to support the work to prepare the college for the Spring 2025 focused visit. We will establish Standards Committees with co-chairs for NECHE’s Nine Standards of Accreditation.
The preparation process will be transparent, inclusive, and comprehensive regarding work, analysis, and participation. Regular updates and a dedicated public website that will serve as a repository of meeting agendas, links to data sources, and other supporting materials.
More information will be forthcoming upon the launch of the steering committee and engagement with the College Senate.
Governor Lamont's Engagement with the CT State College Senate
Last month, a small College Senate delegation met with Governor Ned Lamont. For the first time, our college governance representatives had the privilege of engaging in dialogue with the Governor, addressing crucial issues that directly impact our college and, most importantly, our students. It is worth noting that the governor had not previously met with other community college governance, faculty, and staff delegations. This is a testament to the growing effectiveness and recognition of the College Senate, their collective voice being respected, and the importance of CT State’s contributions to Connecticut.
As we head into April and the latter stages of the spring semester, please be on the lookout for details surrounding Community College Month; College Senate elections; campus climate assessment by the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; engagement opportunities from the Office of the Provost; the release of the CT State organizational chart, and more!
In Partnership,
John Maduko, M.D.
It is with deep sadness that I inform you of the passing of our colleague, Alycia Ziegler.
Alycia was not only a valued member of the Three Rivers community but also a friend to many of us across the college. Her dedication and warmth impacted everyone she met.
Her life was interwoven with Three Rivers. She started as a student worker in 2014 and, after graduating in 2016, returned to work at Three Rivers while she continued her education at the University of Connecticut and ultimately at Boston University where she earned a Master of Education. In 2019, she became the Director of Student Activities and was also a faculty member. During her time at Three Rivers, she was a ceaseless advocate for all students.
Alycia mentored countless students, and her devotion to their well-being and growth leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered by all who knew her. She cared deeply for food-insecure students and worked to expand both access and offerings at the food pantry. She was the impetus for the first Lavender Graduation ceremony, one of the campus leads for Achieving the Dream and worked tirelessly to promote equity and social justice in everything that she touched.
If you or someone you know needs support, we encourage you to take advantage of the free available Employee Assistance Program (EAP). CT State’s EAP provider is the Lexington Group. You can reach them by phone at 1-800-676-HELP or via their website.Employees and their family members can access the EAP by calling for an appointment. At that point, you’ll be connected with an EAP counselor who will set up an appointment. The session is confidential and at no cost to you or your family.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Alycia's family and loved ones during this difficult time. Let us remember and honor her life and the positive influence she had on our college community. Plans for a celebration of life are underway.
President O. John Maduko will deliver the CT State Address at 11:00 am this morning. Immediately following this, President Maduko will be joined by Provost Levy Brown, and the two will answer questions from a live audience.
The presentation will run from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm and can be watched via livestream. It will also be recorded for future viewing.