Students across Connecticut’s State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) system gathered virtually on Friday to press for stronger accountability and a larger role in shaping the system’s future. The Student Advisory Committee, which includes student government leaders from Eastern Connecticut State University, Western Connecticut State University and other campuses, called for a pause in the search for a permanent chancellor until the board addresses the findings of a recent investigation.
Report finds “overall failure” in handling harassment complaints
The investigation examined how CSCU dealt with sexual‑harassment complaints against former Chancellor John Maduko. It concluded that the system exhibited an “overall failure” in its response. Maduko denied the allegations but resigned earlier this year. Former board chairman Martin Guay and General Counsel Karen Buffkin also stepped down before the probe was completed.
Students demand a seat at the table
“The chaos has gone on long enough, and we need some stability,” said Eastern Connecticut State University Student Government President Mathew Biadun. Committee members urged the Board of Regents to give students a vote in the chancellor selection process and to create a formal mechanism for impeaching regents if necessary.
“Today’s meeting is an important first step in giving students the opportunity to share their priorities and their vision for CSCU,” CSCU spokesperson Samantha Norton said. She added that the board looks forward to hearing the committee’s recommendations and working toward a system focused on accountability, transparency and student success.
Legislative allies weigh in
State Sen. Derek Slap (R‑West Hartford), co‑chair of the Higher Education Committee, expressed concern that the report raises broader questions about how CSCU handles sexual‑assault and harassment complaints. “I have two girls who are on college campuses right now, and every single day I think about what the culture is and what the safety measures are in place,” Slap said.
Rep. Vincent Candelora (R‑Minority Leader) echoed the call for accountability, noting that the governor should demand the resignation of the seven current board members if reforms are not enacted.
Recent turnover fuels frustration
Students also pointed to a pattern of leadership turnover that has eroded confidence in the system. Former Chancellor Terrence Cheng resigned after an audit of his purchase‑card use, Central Connecticut State University President Zulma Torro retired amid a bullying‑complaint investigation, and board Vice Chair Juanita James abruptly left her post.
Western Connecticut State University Student Government President Owen Ibey warned that without student advocacy, misconduct may continue to be swept under the rug. “If we’re not speaking out about it, then who’s going to? If it’s getting swept under the rug, then nobody’s going to hold these people accountable,” he said.
Next steps
The advisory committee plans to submit formal recommendations to the Board of Regents in the coming weeks. They hope the board will pause the chancellor search, adopt a student‑voting process for future leadership selections, and establish clear impeachment procedures for regents who fail to uphold standards.
While the board has pledged to consider the committee’s input, students remain skeptical until concrete actions are taken. “I remain open‑minded and I’m happy to work with anyone, and I look forward to learning more about what they have planned,” Biadun said, expressing cautious optimism about the upcoming reforms.
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut (Hartford) — read the source article.
