Erik Clemons, founder of the Connecticut Center for Arts and Technology (ConnCAT), is stepping down as CEO to focus on ConnCORP, a sister organization dedicated to economic development in New Haven’s historically Black communities.

Background

ConnCAT was founded over 14 years ago with the goal of providing job training and workforce development programs to the community. The organization has since grown to include a variety of programs and projects aimed at building self-reliance and skills in New Haven’s Dixwell-Newhallville communities.

ConnCORP, which started as a for-profit organization focused on economic development, was reorganized into a nonprofit in 2021. Clemons has been serving as CEO of both ConnCAT and ConnCORP, but will now direct his attention to ConnCORP.

Future Plans

Malcolm Ellis, a current member of the ConnCORP board of directors, will lead ConnCAT in the interim while a search for a permanent CEO is conducted. Clemons hopes the new CEO will be a strong fundraiser who is deeply invested in building hope and opportunity in the community.

ConnCORP is currently spearheading the First HAVEN redevelopment project, a $200 million mixed-use development in Dixwell that will include retail and grocery space, apartments, a performing arts center, and a workforce development hub. The project aims to bring jobs, housing, and community recreational programming to the area.

Original reporting: The Connecticut Mirror — read the source article.