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O. John Maduko, M.D. has been inaugurated as the first president of Connecticut State Community College (CT State), a historic moment that ushers in CT State as the Northeast’s largest community college and the sixth-largest nationwide.

With the merger of legacy community colleges into CT State Community College on July 1, 2023, the inauguration celebrates the appointment of Maduko and commemorates the collective journey of the 12 main campuses of CT State coming together as one college. 

The ceremony included a procession of Connecticut higher education leadership led by grand marshal Marilynn Turner, professor at CT State Asnuntuck, colors presentation by the CT State Community College Police Department honor guard, and National Anthem and musical interlude by CT State Naugatuck Valley Choir and professor of music Gilad Harel. 

Held at CT State Housatonic, the inauguration was attended by local officials, higher education leadership from Connecticut’s colleges and universities, faculty and staff, and student leaders. Special guest speakers were Elsa M. Núñez, Ed.D., president of Eastern Connecticut State University, and Mordecai Brownlee, Ed.D. president of the Community College of Aurora, noted national and international speaker, and columnist for Diverse: Issues in Higher Education and EdSurge, who brought his thoughts on higher education leadership while highlighting his long friendship with Maduko.

In his inaugural address, Maduko expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead CT State and outlined his vision for the college’s future. He also thanked his many friends and supporters including his wife, Amanda, his parents, siblings and colleagues. 

“Today, as we continue to build our new institution, I envision a journey defined by access, excellence, community contribution, and a steadfast commitment to the lived experiences and identities of those we serve,” said Maduko. 

“Our mission is crystal clear: to provide unparalleled access to comprehensive educational offerings and support services,” he continued. “This means aligning learning opportunities with the diverse educational and career aspirations of our students, ensuring they are in step with workforce demands…and empowering every student to reach their educational and career milestones…”

 “CT State is poised to lead by example in fostering academic, industry, and community partnerships that propel educational opportunities and economic development,” Maduko continued. “Through mission-driven collaborations, we aim to be recognized as a pivotal force in fostering economic equity and enhancing the vitality of Connecticut.”  

Maduko said key initiatives for CT State include:

• Increasing early college and high school dual enrollment

• Expanding health care programs

• Strengthening the manufacturing sector through workforce development

• Spearheading innovation and incorporating emerging technologies

• Upgrading campus facilities to 21st-century standards and reducing the college’s carbon footprint 

• Becoming a state and national leader in social and environmental justice

Maduko was formally invested with the office of president by CT Board of Regents vice chair James McCarthy and Connecticut State Colleges and Universities Chancellor Terrence Cheng. 

“Today is a great day for John Maduko and the Maduko family. It is a great day for CT State, every one of our campuses, and for the CSCU system,” said Cheng. “The road we have traveled has been challenging,” he added, referencing a challenging budget situation. “But I know we are ready for whatever lies ahead, behind the leadership of John Maduko.” 

“We are indeed fortunate to add your voice to all those seeking inclusion, equity and excellence throughout the campuses of CT State,” said Eastern Connecticut State University President Elsa M. Núñez, Ed.D., addressing Maduko in her remarks. “Dr. Maduko is a colleague and a friend, and I know that under his leadership, CT State will always put its students first—all 70,000 strong—while he works tirelessly with faculty and staff to meet the workforce needs of the state of Connecticut.” 

Prior to assuming this role, he served as the vice president of academic and student affairs for Minnesota State Community and Technical College, Minnesota’s fifth-largest community college, and a member of the 33 institutions of Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. A first-generation Nigerian-American, Maduko is an avid supporter of inclusive education accessibility and affordability, student and community wellness, and advancement for underserved and marginalized populations.  

CT State is grateful for the support of the following donors: LindyLee Gold Amour Propre Fund  (Inauguration Brunch Sponsor), Hartford Healthcare (Community Partner Sponsor), Yale New Haven Health (Student Champion Sponsor), and Nuvance Health (Student Champion Sponsor).

 

Link to bio: https://ctstate.edu/presidentbio

Link to photo gallery: https://ctstate.edu/inauguration-gallery