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Women’s History Month is a moment to honor the achievements, leadership, and resilience of women whose contributions have shaped our communities, our nation, and our shared future. It’s a time to recognize the trailblazers who broke barriers, the advocates who fought for equality and equity, and the everyday leaders who create impact through service, innovation, and civic engagement.
In this newsletter we will spotlight the Town of Windsor Mayor
Nuchette Black-Burke, Dr. Kimberly Myers, and Patricia Srenaski. By elevating their stories, we are reminded of the everyday women who make our communities and region stronger.
This newsletter is a 8-minute read. Happy reading!
| | March Momentum: CRCOG's Legislative Update | | |
As the 2026 legislative session begins, activity at the Capitol has moved quickly, with the Governor’s budget adjustments released on opening day and a significant number of bills already introduced that affect municipalities, regional planning, and local budgets. While the short session is technically focused on budget adjustments, the volume and scope of legislation introduced so far suggests another active year for issues that directly affect towns and regions.
Read the full article.
| | Women Who Lead: Spotlighting the Trailblazers Shaping Our Region | | | | |
Nuchette Black-Bouke
Town of Windsor
The Town of Windsor's Mayor Nuchette Black-Burke, M. Ed. is a trailblazer in every sense of the word. As the first African
‑American Mayor of Windsor, CT, she has built a career rooted in service, advocacy, and community connection. Her leadership spans years on the
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Windsor Town Council and the Board of Education, always guided by her commitment to faith, education, and community development. She also currently works with CREC Resource Group.
What motivated you to pursue your career path? “My son. I was encouraged to run for the Board of Education. It was an unexpected opportunity that launched my public service journey. The rest is history."
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your leadership journey? "Seeing and being a part of change. I grew up in Windsor; listening to my neighbor’s ideas/concerns and being able to build on those ideas to implement change, see growth, & new development in my hometown has been rewarding."
What positive changes have you seen in female representation in your field over the years? "As a Windsor native, I am inspired by listening to neighbors’ ideas and helping bring them to life. Implementing change, seeing growth, and supporting new development in my hometown has been incredibly rewarding. I often say, I was just a mom who had no idea I could run for an office. Well, the word is out and women are running for office!”
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Dr. Kimberly Myers | Regional School Safety Coordinator, North Central Capitol Region
Connecticut Center for School Safety and Crisis Preparation
Dr. Kimberly Myers brings more than two decades of expertise in criminal justice, forensic science, threat assessment, emergency management, and higher education to her role as Regional
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School Safety Coordinator. Dr. Myers is a key member and
contributor to CRCOG’s PK-12 Emergency Planning Committee and a member of the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP). She also currently serves as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Hartford and previously taught at Mitchell College.
What inspired her career path? “My father, a retired police officer and firefighter, was my primary motivation for pursuing this career path. I often say I was “born into it,” but from a young age I witnessed a wide range of emergencies and situations that showed me that no two days are ever the same. I enjoy the opportunity to support individuals during both low and high points in their lives, and my passion for problem solving further guided me toward this work.”
Her most rewarding leadership experience. “For Dr. Myers, leadership is rooted in impact. She finds deep fulfillment in mentoring students, helping them uncover their strengths, navigate challenges, and launch meaningful careers. In her current role, she values the opportunity to partner with K–12 schools to enhance emergency operations planning and elevate overall preparedness. “Helping schools create positive, sustainable change is incredibly rewarding.”
Her approach to equity and inclusion. “Equity, Dr. Myers notes, starts with intentional listening. “I strive to understand different perspectives and lived experiences,” she shares. “Making space for diverse voices helps shape more inclusive and effective decisions.”
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Patricia Srenaski, BSN, RN, NHDP-BC | Emergency Management Program Manager
Hartford HealthCare
Pat specializes in systemwide emergency preparedness, planning, training, and exercises. A registered nurse for more than 40 years, she transitioned to emergency management in 2017 after roles in home care,
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infection, prevention, and occupational health. Pat is a certified National Healthcare Disaster Professional and serves as Chair of Capital Region 3 ESF 8 and Co‑Chair of the Connecticut Health Care Coalition. She also volunteers with Women Heart of Central CT, supporting and advocating for women living with or at risk of heart disease.
What inspired her career path? A large part of Pat’s distinguished nursing career was spent with Hartford HealthCare at Home, serving in both clinical and leadership roles. While supporting the Quality and Safety Department, Pat led the project team that developed their Emergency Preparedness Program. The completion of this project helped Pat discover a new passion for the field of emergency management.
Her most rewarding leadership experience. As the ESF 8 Chair, Pat has had the opportunity to connect with people across the region. Building relationships, mentoring others, and giving back to her community are all integral to her goals to build strong, collaborative partnerships that support the growth of the emergency management field. Pat shared with us that “as partners, we can accomplish so much more when we help each other, share best practices, and improve our readiness.”
Her approach to equity and inclusion. Since entering emergency management in 2017, Pat has seen a rise in women pursuing the field, especially nurses. “Most emergency managers come from law enforcement, fire services, or EMS,” she says, which has motivated her to invite women to trainings, assist with exercises, shadow, and volunteer in emergency management. Pat is proud to champion more women entering this essential field.
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Save-the-date: CRCOG’S Annual Meeting is on June 3 | |
We are pleased to announce that CRCOG’s 52nd Annual Meeting will be held on June 3, from 12 – 2:30 PM at the UConn Alumni Center. We look forward to bringing together our members and regional stakeholders for an engaging and informative gathering. Joe D'Ambrosio, an American sports broadcaster and the voice of the UConn Huskies will be our keynote speaker.
Please stay tuned; registration details will be shared soon.
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Showcase Your Impact: Submit to CRCOG’s Regional Awards Today!
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Across the capitol region, our municipalities are tackling big challenges, delivering creative solutions, and making a real difference in the lives of residents. Now it’s time to shine a spotlight on that impact. CRCOG is excited to recognize municipal leaders for the outstanding projects, partnerships, and innovations happening in their communities.
Who would you like to recognize for their contributions to our region? What project will your municipality submit? Submissions are now open. Our two categories are:
Submit to one or both award categories by April 30.
| | CRCOG Video Drops: Sustainability & Safer Homes | | |
CRCOG has just released two new videos showcasing major issues shaping our region. One spotlights the bold sustainability work happening across our communities—featuring the Town of Mansfield. The other takes a closer look at Connecticut’s crumbling‑foundations crisis, highlighting resources, real impacts, and CRCOG’s ongoing support for affected homeowners.
Together, these videos offer an inspiring look at how regional action is strengthening our future. Watch, share, and don’t forget to follow us on YouTube.
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This month, we’re thrilled to celebrate Cara Radzins and her 11-year anniversary with CRCOG!
As our Deputy Director of Transportation Planning, Cara plays a pivotal role in shaping the region’s mobility future. Beyond helping lead the Transportation Planning Department, she brings thoughtfulness, expertise, and dedication to every project she touches. Thank you, Cara!
| | CRCOG Funding Opportunities | | |
State and Federal Funding Opportunities
Have you read the latest funding newsletter? View the archives. Contact Elizabeth Sanderson for more information or if you would like help applying for a grant. Here are some featured opportunities:
CRCOG:
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Transportation Rural Improvement Program (TRIP) - TRIP supports transportation improvements in rural municipalities such as road safety upgrades and local mobility projects. Awards range from $300,000 to $2M. This state funded program is administered by COG’s. Applications must be submitted electronically to Anaka Maher by April 27, 2026. Learn more.
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Brownfield Revolving Loan Fund Program (RLF) - CRCOG has issued a Request for Applications to fund brownfield cleanup projects. Loans and subgrants are available. Applications will be accepted until funds are obligated. Learn more.
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Active Transportation Microgrant Program – Applications for grants up to $5,000 to promote bicycle and pedestrian safety are available. Learn more and submit your application to Mike Cipriano by March 25, 2026 for early consideration.
Federal:
- CRCOG is tracking announcements related to U.S. Department of Transportation related to two popular programs, and will provide more information as it becomes available:
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Bridge Investment Program (BIP) for Planning Grants and Bridge Projects (those with eligible costs of $100M or less); and
- Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program.
State:
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Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development (OBRD) is accepting applications for round 23 of the Brownfield Municipal Grant Program. Four types of financial assistance programs are available, with applications due to DECD by March 25, 2026, at noon.
| | CRCOG Meetings and Events | |
March 23, 2026
Transportation Committee Meeting (Hybrid)
12 – 1:30 pm
April 7, 2026
Municipal Services Committee (Virtual)
12 – 1:30 pm
April 9, 2026
Planning and Development Forum
12 – 1 pm
April 20, 2026
Transportation Committee Meeting
12 – 1:30 pm
April 21, 2026
Regional Housing Strategy Advisory Committee Meeting (In-person: CRCOG Offices, 3rd Floor Board Room, 350 Church Street, Hartford, CT 06103 350 Church Street, Hartford, CT, United States)
10 am – 12 pm
April 23, 2026
Capitol Emergency Regional Planning Council Meeting
9:30 – 11 am
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