Connecticut State Treasurer Erick Russell. Mr. Russell was sworn in as Connecticut’s 84th State Treasurer on January 4, 2023. He administers the state's pension funds, debt and cash management, and unclaimed property, and oversees the Connecticut Higher Education Trust (CHET). A key achievement in his first term is launching the nation’s first statewide Baby Bonds initiative.
Previously a partner at Pullman & Comley, Mr. Russell represented towns, cities, and the state in financing infrastructure projects, managing debt, and restructuring pension obligations. Born in New Haven, Connecticut, he earned a bachelor's degree from the University of New Haven and a law degree from the University of Connecticut. As a strong advocate for marginalized communities, Russell mentors young Black and LGBTQ individuals. He made history in 2022 as the first Black, out LGBTQ person elected to statewide office in American history.
The objective of the Critical Conversations Speaker Series is to foster an inclusive and intellectually stimulating environment at Quinnipiac, promoting inclusivity of thought, respectful dialogue, empathetic engagement, and open-mindedness among students, faculty, and staff. The events are designed to empower participants to be better prepared to embrace inclusivity of thought by actively listening to and engaging with concepts and ideas that may challenge their personal values, without dismissing or silencing differing viewpoints.
NOTE: SPEAKER WILL BE LIVE IN SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AUDITORIUM (SB 270); EVENT WILL BE LIVESTREAMED TO NORTH HAVEN AUDITORIUM (MNH 101)
