CT Board of Regents Selects Grand River Solutions to Conduct Comprehensive Independent Review

The Connecticut Board of Regents for Higher Education today announced the selection of Grand River Solutions (GRS), following a public and competitive process, to conduct a comprehensive, independent review related to the ongoing matter involving former interim chancellor John Maduko.

The review will examine the system's response to the matter, evaluate whether established procedures and best practices were followed, and determine whether any related patterns of conduct exist. The review will also assess the hiring and selection process for interim and permanent chancellors, including what information is evaluated, and whether there are any gaps in the process that need to be addressed.

"This review will be fair, thorough, and independent. It is essential that we fully understand the facts, hear all perspectives - especially from those who came forward - and identify how we can be better in the future and remedy any ongoing harm. Our students, faculty, staff, and the public deserve transparency and accountability - and they will have it. We are committed to ensuring that anyone who comes forward to report misconduct feels supported and has access to the resources they need," said Ari Santiago, chair of the Connecticut Board of Regents.

The Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) system issued a public Request for Proposals through the Department of Administrative Services to identify a qualified firm to conduct a thorough assessment. Six firms submitted proposals. CSCU's Office of Compliance, in collaboration with the Chairs of the Board's Audit and Human Resources Committees, evaluated and scored the proposals. The three highest-ranked firms were invited to participate in live presentations.

GRS was selected for its extensive experience conducting objective reviews in higher education, with a particular focus on civil rights response. GRS' team brings a combination of legal and higher education expertise, reflecting a strong capacity for both complex analysis and institutional assessment.

GRS is a national firm that specializes in compliance solutions for organizations governed by state and federal regulations, including Title IX. The firm has significant experience partnering with institutions to strengthen Title IX programs, response to incidents, and provide training to staff and students in legally compliant, trauma-informed practices.

An initial report will be provided to the Board of Regents by June 30. The review is expected to conclude within three months, and its findings will be made public upon completion.