Interim Chancellor Takes Over Troubled CT Colleges And Universities System

by Staff Report CTNewsJunkie

HARTFORD, CT — Natalie Braswell has been named interim chancellor of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities system, according to the Connecticut Board of Regents for Higher Education.

Braswell has previously served as state comptroller and is currently general counsel to Gov. Ned Lamont. She is expected to serve in the role for one year while CSCU conducts a national search for its next leader.

“Natalie brings a pragmatic, action-oriented approach and a proven ability to take on complex challenges during times of transition,” said Ari Santiago, the board’s interim chair. “She knows how to navigate state government, she leads with accountability and transparency, and understands how important CSCU is to students, faculty and staff, and communities across Connecticut.”

Braswell said the appointment was an honor that came with significant challenges.

“Throughout my career, I have never shied away from difficult challenges, and I understand both the responsibility and urgency of this work,” she said. “Our colleges and universities are essential engines of opportunity, workforce development, economic growth, and social mobility for students and families across our state. This is a moment that calls for steady leadership, accountability, and a clear focus on moving forward.”

Lamont called Braswell “a steady hand.”

“Time and again, she has stepped into challenging situations, tackled tough issues head-on, and delivered results when the stakes were high,” he said in a statement. “Natalie doesn’t back down when something gets difficult.”

Braswell is a graduate of UConn and the UConn law school.  She also taught legal practice as an adjunct professor at UConn Law and served on the school’s foundation board and its Diversity, Equity and Belonging Committee.

CSCU operates 16 campuses statewide, including Central Connecticut State University, Eastern Connecticut State University, Southern Connecticut State University, Western Connecticut State University, Charter Oak State College, and Connecticut State Community College (CT State).

As interim chancellor, Braswell will also help oversee the completion of an independent review examining all known facts related to the former interim chancellor’s conduct and CSCU’s response to reports of alleged misconduct, including whether system policies, procedures, and best practices were appropriately followed. The review is expected to conclude within three months, and its findings will be made public upon completion, according to state officials.