Press Releases
12/04/2024
Deputy Secretary Jacqueline Kozin to Step Down in January; Secretary Thomas to Appoint Jennifer Barahona as Deputy Secretary of the State
(Hartford, CT) – Early next year, Deputy Secretary Jacqueline Kozin will step down from her role to pursue new professional opportunities. “I want to thank Secretary Thomas for entrusting me with this important role. Working with her and the team at the Secretary of the State’s Office has been an invaluable experience, allowing me to contribute while learning along the way,” Deputy Kozin said. “It has truly been an honor to be able to serve Secretary Thomas, the state and people of Connecticut in this way.”Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas today announced that she will be appointing Jennifer Barahona to serve as Deputy Secretary of the State after Kozin’s departure. Barahona has an extensive background in leading programs and organizations including six years at the Newtown-Sandy Hook Community Foundation. She has spent the past five years in her current role as Chief Executive Officer of Norwalk ACTS, a non-profit collaborative collective impact organization dedicated to improving the lives of Norwalk children and families. She led the organization through a period of remarkable growth and impact, fostering collaborations between educators, community organizations, and local businesses, advancing equity and opportunity for families throughout the region.
“I’ve enjoyed working alongside Deputy Kozin on a number of initiatives the past two years including the roll out of early voting and navigating the RFP process for the state’s new voting machines. Deputy Kozin led an award-winning social media campaign on trusted information leading up to the 2024 General Election and has helped to foster a sense of community in the office,” Secretary Thomas said. “I am so appreciative of her dedication, guidance and commitment to the Secretary of the State’s office, as well as her support to me throughout her tenure.
Next year will kick off the 2025 legislative session and a new wave of projects and changes for Connecticut voters. Having worked with Jennifer on a number of initiatives, I am thrilled she will be bringing her administrative talent along with her drive and passion for civic engagement to support the work of our office.”
"I am deeply honored to accept this appointment and look forward to working alongside Secretary Thomas and her team to build on the remarkable successes of her first two years in office,” said Barahona. “As a lifelong advocate for civic engagement, this role aligns perfectly with both my personal values and professional interests. I am excited to serve the people of Connecticut and contribute to creating a more engaged and empowered electorate."
Barahona will be sworn in on January 8, 2025.
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