New Haven, CT – ConnCORP, the nonprofit behind the First HAVEN redevelopment and a suite of community‑focused economic programs, announced Friday that its founding chief executive, Erik Clemons, will leave the organization on Oct. 7.
Leadership transition rooted in service
“One of the most important things a leader can do is recognize when it’s time to step aside and make room for others,” Clemons said in the press release. “For eight years, I’ve had the honor of building alongside people who believe in this community as much as I do. Now it’s time for fresh eyes and new perspectives to lead what comes next.” He added that he has “full confidence in our board, our leadership team, and the staff who make this work possible every day.”
Programs launched under Clemons’ tenure
During his time at ConnCORP, Clemons founded the Wealth Accelerator, a partnership of local and national groups aimed at closing the racial wealth gap for low‑ and moderate‑income families. Its flagship initiative, Cash Catalyst, will distribute more than $500,000 in investable capital to young adults in Greater New Haven to help them purchase homes, start businesses, save for retirement, or fund education.
In response to the COVID‑19 pandemic, Clemons helped raise funds to launch ConnCAT, a job‑training nonprofit, and the ConnCORP Economic Justice Fund, which placed resources directly into families in the Dixwell and Newhallville neighborhoods and later invested in established Black‑owned businesses.
He also co‑founded Orchid Gallery at The Lab at ConnCORP, providing early‑career artists of color a venue to showcase their work, and oversaw the construction of the First HAVEN development and ConnCAT’s new headquarters at 150 Dixwell Avenue.
Community praise and future outlook
Diane Brown, branch manager of the Stetson Branch Library, praised Clemons’ approach: “Erik has always understood that community development starts with the people who live in the community. He is a true visionary and champion of the people. Under his leadership, ConnCORP took the time to listen, to show up, and to earn our trust.”
The ConnCORP board announced that it will expand its composition and lead the search for a permanent successor, with continued support from funders, lenders, and community partners. Ongoing projects, including the next phase of First HAVEN, will proceed as planned during the transition, and the organization will provide updates on interim leadership in the coming weeks.
What this means for New Haven
ConnCORP has become a leading voice for community‑driven economic development in New Haven, consistently emphasizing trust‑building with residents and neighborhood leaders. Clemons’ departure marks the end of an era but also opens the door for new leadership to continue the nonprofit’s mission of empowering families, entrepreneurs, artists, and students across the city.
Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.
