CT Policy Talks
CT Policy Talks is a policy discussion series dedicated to exploring critical policy issues that matter to Connecticut residents.
Hosted by the UConn School of Public Policy in collaboration with the Capitol Region Council of Governments, this series brings together experts, policymakers, and community members to discuss solutions to some of the State’s most pressing challenges. Participants will engage with thought leaders, grassroots organizations and elected and nonelected policy decision makers to gain valuable insights and contribute to meaningful conversations that shape Connecticut’s future.
All events are free and open to the public.
Lunch will be provided. Advanced registration is required.
For questions or if you require an accommodation to participate in these events, please contact maura.maloney@uconn.edu.
Spring 2025 Events
Connecticut’s Neighborhood Revitalization Zones After 30 Years
Thursday, April 10, 2025
12-1:30 p.m.
Park Street Library
603 Park Street, Hartford, CT
Panelists
- Aaron Gill, Former Director, Frog Hollow NRZ
- Debi Martin, Program Officer, Local Initiatives Support Corporation Connecticut
- Margaret Malinowski, Neighborhood Preservation Program Administrator, City of New Britain
- Marion Griffin, Co-Chair, Hartford NEXT
- Lydia Wileden, Assistant Professor, UConn School Public of Policy
- Peter Procko, Chairman, Greeneville Neighborhood Revitalization Zone
Moderator
Lydia Wileden, Assistant Professor, UConn School Public of Policy
Local Interventions to Address Substance Use Disorders
March 12, 2025
12-1:30 p.m.
Hartford Public Library
500 Main Street, Hartford, CT
Panelists
- David Mitre Becerril, Assistant Professor, UConn School of Public Policy
- Mallory Deprey, Director of Community Service, New Britain Recovers, City of New Britain Department of Parks, Recreation, & Community Services
- Chief Vernon Riddick, West Hartford Police Department
- Tracy Marra, State Representative, 141st District, Norwalk & Darien
- Mark Jenkins, Founder & Executive Director at CT Harm Reduction Alliance
Moderator
Mohamad Alkadry, Professor, UConn School of Public Policy
Measuring & Addressing Transportation Insecurity in Connecticut
May 22, 2025
12-1:30 p.m.
CRCOG Offices
350 Church Street Hartford, CT
Panelists
- Joe Comerford, Executive Director, River Valley Transit (RTV)
- Dr. Angie Eikenberry, Director, UConn School Public of Policy
- Eric Harrison, President & CEO, United Way Central and Northeastern Connecticut
- Doug Holcomb, Executive Director, Greater Hartford Transit District
- Lydia Wileden, Assistant Professor, UConn School Public of Policy
Moderator
Matt Hart, Executive Director, Capitol Region Council of Governments (CRCOG)
Fall 2025 Events
Connecticut Nonprofit Mapping – A Tool for Collaboration Among Nonprofits
The Connecticut Nonprofit Asset Mapping Tool is an interactive platform designed to foster collaboration among nonprofits statewide. A panel discussion will explore how the tool helps organizations connect, spot service gaps, and build capacity to better serve Connecticut communities.
Wednesday, October 15, 2025
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
UConn Stamford
1 University Pl, Stamford, CT 06901
Panelists
- Gian-Carl Casa, President & CEO, The Alliance
- Mendi Blue-Paca, President & CEO, Fairfield County’s Community Foundation
- Jeffrey Currey, Chief of Staff, House Majority Leader, CT General Assembly
- Jennifer Leeper, State Representative, CT General Assembly
Moderator
Mohamad Alkadry, Professor, UConn School Public of Policy
Thank you to our cosponsor!
