Office of the President

September 23, 2026

Dear Colleagues,

I am pleased to share two important leadership updates as we continue to ensure stability and continuity across key college functions.

Keith Norton has been named Interim Executive Vice President of Operations and Chief Financial Officer, effective October 16.

Keith joins CT State from the Connecticut State Department of Education, where he serves as Chief Strategic Planning Officer and oversees the Office of Strategic Planning and Partnerships. In that role, he leads statewide efforts across strategic planning, fiscal and operational matters, college and career readiness, and partnerships among secondary schools, higher education, state agencies, and employers.

Keith previously served as Executive Director of the Connecticut Office of Higher Education. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated the ability to bring organizations and partners together, manage complex statewide initiatives, and develop practical approaches to expanding educational opportunity while making responsible use of limited resources. He holds a bachelor's degree from Trinity College and an advanced degree from the University of Hartford.

Keith's breadth of experience across Connecticut's education system, along with his background in strategy, operations, and cross-sector collaboration, will be valuable as he assumes leadership of CT State's operations and finances.

I am also pleased to announce that Edwin Castano has been named Interim Deputy Human Resources Officer and Assistant Vice President of Employee Relations, effective October 1.

Edwin has served the college since 2021, most recently as Human Resources Manager for the College Office. He previously held a human resources role with the Connecticut Department of Children and Families. In addition to his civilian career, Edwin has more than 20 years of military service and currently serves as a Human Resources Officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve.

Edwin will assume interim oversight of the college's human resources function following the departure of Interim Vice President of Human Resources Dr. Ruth Spencer, whose contract concludes on September 30. We are grateful to Ruth for her leadership, counsel, and commitment to supporting CT State during an important period of transition.

These interim appointments will ensure continuity across essential areas of the college while positioning us to continue advancing our institutional priorities. Please join me in welcoming Keith to CT State, congratulating Edwin on his new role, and thanking Dr. Spencer for her service and contributions to our college.
Sincerely,
 
Christina Royal, Ph.D.
Interim President