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Dear Norwalk ACTS partners,
I am writing to let you know that it will be announced today that I have accepted an appointment to serve as Connecticut’s new Deputy Secretary of the State and will be stepping down from my role at Norwalk ACTS in January. While a transition like this is never easy, nor is the timing ever quite as we wished, this unexpected opportunity to serve in a statewide position focused on strengthening our democracy feels like a natural extension of the values and work we’ve championed together. For any of you who have followed my tenure at Norwalk ACTS, or heard me speak about civic engagement, you know that this work is at the core of my being. Our partnership recognizes, as was reinforced through the recent redesign of our MOA, that civic engagement is crucial in transforming systems to be more equitable and representative because it empowers individuals and communities to actively participate in the decision-making processes that shape their lives.
This decision comes after careful reflection and examination of my deepest held beliefs and values, which are grounded in civic engagement and representative power. As a social worker with a focus on systemic change, I have always advocated for “upstream” solutions, and the opportunity to lead positive change on a broader scale is both inspiring and energizing.
At the same time, I find it incredibly difficult to leave a role that I have loved and the people, like you, that I have worked with so closely. This was an agonizing decision because I am so deeply committed to the work we are doing here and to the success of Norwalk ACTS. My nearly 6 years with the organization has been one of the most fulfilling of my career and I believe the work we’ve done together has been truly transformative. And while a transition of any leader is sure to cause some disruption, a core tenant of our values and beliefs in collective impact is that no system is, or should be, reliant on any one person. When I began this role we were a staff of 3. We are now a team of 8 incredibly strong, talented, and committed leaders who will continue moving Norwalk ACTS forward into our next phase of growth. I have full confidence and faith in the backbone team and our board of directors.
My swearing in as the Deputy Secretary of the State will occur on January 8th. Through the month of December, and moving into 2025, I will be working closely with the board and staff to ensure a smooth transition. As transition plans are solidified, more details will be shared. Please know that I remain deeply committed to supporting Norwalk ACTS in the future, even as I take on this new challenge.
I truly value your partnership/friendship and the time we have spent working together. Norwalk is where I have spent the overwhelming majority of my career and it is a community I will always care about deeply. I am incredibly proud of all we have accomplished and will continue to be a champion for our collective work.
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