Interim chancellor outlines Charter Oak presidential search and 2026 legislative priorities

Interim Chancellor John Maduco told the Board of Regents the system office will launch a search for a new president of Charter Oak State College following the incumbent’s announced retirement and will pursue several legislative priorities ahead of the 2026 session.

Maduco said the Charter Oak president’s retirement will prompt a search “who will build upon [the current president’s] legacy while positioning the institution for future growth, innovation, impact, and greater collaboration with our other institutions.” He named President Karim Ismaili to chair the search committee and said two vice chairs will support the process.

The interim chancellor described a planned 18‑month roadmap to guide strategic directions for upcoming legislative sessions, saying the plan will “articulate future investments across student support, capital infrastructure, system‑wide initiatives that supports CSU's roles as Connecticut's primary talent engine.” He said top 2026 priorities include securing additional capital funding and strengthening relationships with state government offices and legislative leaders.

Maduco said the system office will engage institutional leaders, unions and faculty advisory groups to ensure alignment as they prepare for the legislative cycle and a comprehensive strategic plan. He indicated the system will bring finalized recommendations (including the proposed finish line scholars program) to the Board of Regents for consideration.

The board acknowledged the update and appointed leadership for the chancellor search.