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CT State Community College has announced the appointment of Manuel Gomez, Ph.D., as interim CEO of CT State Quinebaug Valley, effective immediately.  

As the lead campus administrator at Quinebaug Valley, Gomez will oversee day-to-day operations of the campuses in Danielson and Willimantic. He was previously interim CEO of CT State Housatonic and will continue to support the Bridgeport campus until the arrival of Housatonic’s new CEO in July.

“Dr. Gomez’s steadfast leadership has been pivotal during a period of significant transition and change,” said CT State President O. John Maduko, M.D. “His commitment to maintaining and enhancing our academic standards, supporting our faculty and staff, and prioritizing student success have left an indelible mark; and his dedication will be invaluable as we continue to strive for excellence in serving our students and community.”

Gomez comes to the position with 27 years of higher education experience. Before joining CT State in 2021 as associate vice president of academic operations, he held positions as vice president of Estrella Mountain Community College, associate provost at National American University, and director for education and training for Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. He has many years of experience leading and collaborating on higher education accreditation work. Gomez has also served in dean and faculty positions, and has taught Spanish, Latin American history and culture, and leadership at colleges and universities throughout the country.

"I am excited to join CT State Quinebaug Valley, which has a proud history of providing exceptional education and fostering a vibrant learning community,” said Gomez. “I am committed to building on this legacy by enhancing our academic programs and student support services, and strengthening our partnerships with local businesses and organizations,” he continued. “Our manufacturing program is a testament to our dedication to preparing students for high-demand careers, and I am thrilled about a new LPN program currently in development, which will help our community and further expand opportunities in the health care field,” he added. “Together, we will create new pathways for our students to succeed and thrive in their academic and professional journeys as we work toward our shared vision for the future."

Gomez earned his doctoral degree in philosophy with an emphasis in Spanish literature and culture from the University of Arizona and completed post-doctoral work in community college leadership at the University of Texas, Austin. He is multilingual in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Gomez has also held board positions in various organizations, including the Illinois Community College Board Hispanic Advisory Council, Illinois Valley Symphony Orchestra, Black Hills Symphony Orchestra, Illinois Valley Youth Choir, Illinois Valley Hispanic Partnership Council, Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County, and Bridgeport Regional Business Council.

Karen Hynick, Ed.D., who served as CEO of CT State Quinebaug Valley since 2021, has been appointed acting provost and vice president of student affairs, academic affairs and workforce for CT State.