In this Feb. 20, 2019 file photo, Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont delivers his budget address at the State Capitol in Hartford, Conn. New statistics show Connecticut physicians are prescribing fewer opioids to their patients, but the number of deaths associated with the powerful painkillers remains high. Last week, Lamont announced a statewide awareness campaign that will feature information about opioids, treatment options, services and advice for families. (AP Photo/Jessica Hill, File)
Gov. Ned Lamont has plans to replace the University of Connecticut Board of Trustees chairman, Thomas E. Krueger, and member Denis J. Nayden.
Krueger will leave the board after its meeting on April 24. Lamont has said that UConn needs to be a central element of the state’s effort to grow the state’s economy.
“By statute, the governor of Connecticut appoints most trustees on the UConn board, who are also confirmed by the General Assembly,” UConn spokesperson Stephanie Reitz said. “We look forward to welcoming and working closely with all those Gov. Lamont selects to serve on UConn’s governing board.”
Ryan Drajewicz, Lamont’s chief of staff, told the Hartford Courant Kruger’s removal is part of Lamont’s desire to create his own board.
“I strongly believe the governor is entitled to select his own candidate for the chairmanship of the board,” Kruger said.
Board members are named to six-year terms as trustees, and the term of five members will soon expire, leaving opportunity for Lamont to appoint new members.
Nayden contributed $100,000 during the 2018 gubernatorial race to a super PAC that helped Republican candidate Bob Stefanowski buy attack ads directed at Lamont.
Nayden helped direct about $11 million in corporate contributions to UConn during his time as a GE executive. Stefanowski, also a former GE executive, received direct donations to his campaign from Nayden and his wife.