Agency Functions

The Department of Higher Education's 50-member staff works on behalf of the Board of Governors to assure academic quality, fiscal efficiency, student access and responsiveness to economic needs. The Department has $6.8 million to support its operations, and an additional $41.7 million for student financial aid programs. The Department also administers $6.8 million in federal dollars to support the GEAR-UP program for at-risk youngsters, National Service activities, Teacher Quality Partnership Grants and veterans program approval.

Headed by the Commissioner of Higher Education, the Department has one Deputy Commissioner and is organized into three offices for Programs and Student Services; Academic Affairs; and Research, Policy & Financial Analysis.

Commissioner

Michael P. Meotti, Commissioner of Higher Education

The Commissioner of Higher Education is appointed by the Board of Governors and manages the daily operations of the Department of Higher Education in concert with Board policies and state statutes. The Commissioner speaks on behalf of the Board to various constituents across the state and represents the interests of Connecticut higher education nationally and locally. This office also manages the agency's internal operations, communications and information technology.

Programs & Student Services

Jane A. Ciarleglio, Deputy Commissioner

The Office of Programs & Student Services handles government relations, regulation of private occupational schools, veterans program approval, grant administration and houses many of the Department's direct services to the public. These include National Service, GEAR-UP and international exchange programs.

Academic Affairs

Jonas Zdanys, Associate Commissioner

The Office of Academic Affairs is responsible for the licensure and accreditation reviews of programs and institutions of higher learning in Connecticut (public and independent colleges and universities), and operates the Alternate Route to Teacher Certification.

Research, Policy & Financial Analysis

Mary K. Johnson, Associate Commissioner

This office conducts budget, facilities and research analysis for the Connecticut public higher education system and administers the state's student financial aid programs. This office prepares systemwide consolidated operating and capital budget requests for the Governor and legislature, develops tuition and fee policies, sets accountability standards and is the primary source of information regarding college enrollment and graduation trends.