Erik Clemons is stepping down as CEO of New Haven’s ConnCAT to focus on his role at sister organization ConnCORP. The two organizations provide job training and community redevelopment in the city.
Malcolm Ellis, a longtime ConnCORP board member, becomes ConnCAT interim CEO effective immediately.
Founder and board chair of both organizations, Carlton L. Highsmith, has announced his retirement at the end of this year. After Highsmith’s exit, Ellis will become ConnCAT board chair.
Meanwhile Clemons, founding CEO of both organizations, will focus his attention on ConnCORP as the organization continues to build out its Dixwell Avenue development First HAVEN.
The leadership transition follows the June move into ConnCAT’s expanded location at 150 Dixwell Avenue, part of the first phase of the redevelopment.
The First HAVEN plan represents a $200 million investment in the Dixwell neighborhood, transforming a former strip mall into a community-centered development that includes a new daycare, mental health clinic and workforce training center. The second phase will include an office building, grocery store and apartment complex.
“The work ahead is bigger: continuing to build economic opportunity across New Haven and making sure the doors we’ve opened stay open for the next generation,” said Clemons. “That requires focused leadership at each organization, and I’m confident in what’s ahead for both.”
ConnCAT provides job-training programs to give unemployed and under-employed adults skills in the health sciences and culinary professions.
ConnCORP is focused on economic development in New Haven including the acquisition and revitalization of commercial properties and investment in community-based businesses.
