Controversial efforts to connect wealthy campus with struggling hometown spark Supreme Court case and faculty rebellion.
Claire Gaudiani, the former president of Connecticut College, passed away on October 16 in Manhattan at the age of 79. Her son, D. Graham Burnett, confirmed that she died from leukemia. Gaudiani’s leadership at Connecticut College saw significant growth in the school’s endowment, national reputation, and admission applications. She also took on the role of chief executive of the New London Development Corporation, aiming to revitalize the city of New London, Connecticut, where the college is located.
Gaudiani’s efforts to bridge the gap between the college and the city were notable, as she worked to bring economic development to the struggling community. She successfully attracted Pfizer to build a research campus in New London, driving further growth and investment in the area. However, her plans to redevelop a deteriorating neighborhood faced opposition when some homeowners in the Fort Trumbull area refused to sell their properties.
The development corporation, under Gaudiani’s leadership, initiated eminent domain proceedings to acquire the properties of the holdout homeowners. This decision sparked controversy and led to a faculty revolt at Connecticut College, ultimately contributing to Gaudiani’s resignation after serving as president for 13 years. Despite the challenges faced during her tenure, Gaudiani’s impact on the college and the city of New London was significant.
Gaudiani’s legacy includes her ambitious vision for revitalizing New London and her dedication to fostering growth and collaboration between the college and the community. Her leadership style, characterized by charisma and decisiveness, propelled Connecticut College to new heights during her presidency. While her approach to urban redevelopment was met with resistance, Gaudiani’s efforts to drive economic progress and social change in New London will be remembered as a significant chapter in the city’s history.
Source: The NY Times
