Governor Ned Lamont announced Friday that West Hartford Mayor Shari Cantor will serve as the next chair of the University of Connecticut Board of Trustees, succeeding Dan Toscano, who stepped down after serving since 2019. Cantor, already a board member, was chosen for her “keen understanding of UConn’s needs and strong connections with Connecticut businesses,” according to the governor’s office.
Why Cantor’s Leadership Matters
Lamont emphasized that Cantor’s input will “significantly benefit the university and its mission to develop the graduates who will flourish in today’s rapidly evolving, modern economy.” The governor believes her experience as mayor and her relationships with local employers will help strengthen ties between UConn and state industry, fostering job opportunities for graduates.
Continuity Amid Presidential Uncertainty
The appointment comes as UConn navigates uncertainty surrounding President Radenka Maric’s future. Speculation arose in October when House Speaker Matt Ritter was mentioned as a possible interim president, but Ritter confirmed he will remain in his legislative role. Maric remains a finalist for the chancellor position at the University of Wisconsin, and her contract with UConn runs through June 2027.
In a written statement, Cantor expressed enthusiasm for working “collaboratively with President Radenka Maric, my fellow trustees, faculty, staff, students, and alumni to build on UConn’s remarkable momentum.” She highlighted the university’s recent gains in enrollment, fundraising, and research standing.
Legislative Support
State Senator Derek Slap, co‑chair of the Higher Education and Employment Committee and a West Hartford resident, praised the governor’s choice. “I think her devotion to UConn is really unmatched,” Slap told The Connecticut Mirror. “She leads by bringing people together and is a natural consensus builder. She’ll be terrific in this role.” Slap also noted the challenges UConn has faced under the second Trump administration, including abrupt federal cuts that eliminated millions of dollars in research grants. He stressed the importance of stability at the university’s helm.
Governor’s Office Confident in UConn’s Direction
Lamont’s director of communications, Cathryn Vaulman, reaffirmed confidence in the university’s trajectory, stating, “UConn is headed in the right direction in terms of enrollment, fundraising, and its standing as a leading research institution.” The administration’s endorsement underscores a broader commitment to higher‑education excellence in Connecticut.
What’s Next for the Board
As chair, Cantor will guide the board’s oversight of academic programs, financial health, and strategic initiatives. Her dual perspective as a municipal leader and trustee positions her to bridge community interests with the university’s long‑term goals. The board will continue to address funding challenges, research opportunities, and the upcoming presidential transition at UConn.
Both Cantor and Toscano declined requests for comment on the transition, and the governor’s office did not disclose the reasons for Toscano’s resignation.
Original reporting: The Connecticut Mirror — read the source article.
