Sen. Tony Hwang Statement on New President of UCONN, Thomas C. Katsouleas

February 8, 2019

State Senator Tony Hwang (R-28), Senate Ranking Member on Higher Education & Employment Advancement Committee released the following statement in regard to the announcement by the University of Connecticut that the Board of Trustees had selected Katsouleas to be the 16th President of the University

“I would like to extend my most sincere congratulations to Thomas Katsouleas for his unanimous selection to be the new President of the University of Connecticut. Mr. Katsouleas is clearly an excellent fit for UConn, as a dedicated research scientist and focus entrepreneurial public/private collaboration, these are critical skills to lead our flagship state university,” said Senator Hwang.

“UConn has experienced some difficult times recently, as the state struggles to balance our budget and provide stability and appropriate financial assistance to its’ academic and community mission. However, the University has continued to offer academic and athletic excellence to it’s students, and I look forward to working closely with Mr. Katsouleas to ensure that UConn has what it needs to continue to be an economic and educational driver for this state. I hope especially to work with him on encouraging students to live and work in Connecticut after graduation. There are so many opportunities here, and we need to do our best to not only help develop these young adults but also provide them with the opportunity to find a good, high-paying job, an affordable place to live, and a community to enjoy.”

“I would also like to extend my thanks to UConn’s outgoing President, Susan Herbst, who did an admirable job during a very difficult time for the state and for the University. I appreciate her hard work and her willingness to make difficult decisions during her tenure. I will want wish her continued success.”