President and CEO of Connecticut Public Mark Contreras is retiring after seven years with the nonprofit journalism enterprise.
Contreras, who announced his retirement on Jan. 13, ended a run that was marked by growth, impact and commitment to the organization’s mission and culture.
“My time at Connecticut Public has been both an honor and a privilege,” Contreras said. “I believe the time is right to create space for new energy, creativity and vision at the organization.”
Contreras added that he is confident he is leaving Connecticut Public in a place of “strength,” noting that the organization is “in very good shape and with many talented people who will continue to propel our mission forward.”
The Connecticut Public Board of Trustees has assembled a search committee as part of its planned leadership succession and transition planning process. This committee will be chaired by Connecticut Public Trustee Aedhmar Hynes and guided by Ann Blinkhorn of Blinkhorn LLC, a Connecticut-based national executive search firm.
Contreras will continue to serve through the transition period to ensure a smooth handover and ensure the ongoing stability of Connecticut Public.
Since joining Connecticut Public, he has played a pivotal role in strengthening the organization’s vital position in Connecticut through quality journalism, storytelling and educational content. Contreras assembled an exceptional executive leadership team, revolutionized the organization’s digital infrastructure, expanded Connecticut Public’s reach and engagement in Fairfield County, and launched the Somos Connecticut Latino content initiative.
Under his leadership, Connecticut Public’s audiences have continued to grow in recent years. Importantly, Contreras also helped the organization successfully navigate the COVID pandemic, as well as the recent loss of federal funding for public media.
“Mark has been a remarkable leader, and we are deeply grateful for his dedication to stewarding our mission and goals,” said George Norfleet, Connecticut Public Board of Trustees chair. “His vision, integrity and dedication will leave a lasting impact on the organization and
the communities we serve. We are delighted his retirement will allow him to spend more time with his family, including the upcoming birth of his first grandchild.”
