Recently combined CT State welcomes its first president
The recently combined Connecticut State Community College, an amalgamation of all the state’s community college campuses, inaugurated its first president on April 12.
O. John Maduko was inaugurated to lead the state’s 12 community college campuses in a ceremony at Housatonic Community College in Bridgeport, according to a release from the college.
Maduko, a first-generation Nigerian American, previously served as the vice president of academic and student affairs for Minnesota State Community and Technical College, Minnesota’s fifth-largest community college.
“Today, as we continue to build our new institution, I envision a journey defined by access, excellence, community contribution, and a steadfast commitment to the lived experiences and identities of those we serve,” Maduko said.
“Our mission is crystal clear: to provide unparalleled access to comprehensive educational offerings and support services,” he continued. “This means aligning learning opportunities with the diverse educational and career aspirations of our students, ensuring they are in step with workforce demands … and empowering every student to reach their educational and career milestones …”
“CT State is poised to lead by example in fostering academic, industry, and community partnerships that propel educational opportunities and economic development,” Maduko said. “Through mission-driven collaborations, we aim to be recognized as a pivotal force in fostering economic equity and enhancing the vitality of Connecticut.”
Key initiatives for CT State, which now stands as the largest college in Connecticut and largest community college in New England with over 70,000 students, include “increasing early college and high school dual enrollment, expanding health care programs, strengthening the manufacturing sector through workforce development, spearheading innovation and incorporating emerging technologies, upgrading campus facilities and reducing the college’s carbon footprint and becoming a state and national leader in social and environmental justice,” according to the release.
The process of combining the schools under single leadership, motivated by financial problems and declining enrollment, sparked conflict with faculty and students have raised the alarm about a funding crisis. Courses, staff, tutoring and support services have all been reduced while tuition has increased and the Connecticut State Colleges and University system still faces a $140 million deficit.
The colleges merger took place July 1, 2023.
“Today is a great day for John Maduko and the Maduko family. It is a great day for CT State, every one of our campuses, and for the CSCU system,” said Connecticut State Colleges and Universities Chancellor Terrence Cheng. “The road we have traveled has been challenging,” he added, referencing a challenging budget situation. “But I know we are ready for whatever lies ahead, behind the leadership of John Maduko.”
At the ceremony, Marilynn Turner, a professor at Asnuntuck led the procession, the CT State Community College Police Department honor guard presented the colors, and the CT State Naugatuck Valley Choir and professor of music Gilad Harel performed the national anthem.
Elsa M. Núñez, ED.D., president of Eastern Connecticut State University, and Mordecai Brownlee, ED.D. president of the Community College of Aurora, a noted international speaker on higher education and a longtime friend of Maduko, were the featured speakers.