Connecticut Forum to Appoint Interim Leader
The nonprofit will transition leadership on October 29, 2026, following the resignation of executive director Mana Zarinejad.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in People
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Mana Zarinejad will step down from her position as executive director of the Hartford-based Connecticut Forum effective October 29, 2026. Co-founder and former CEO Doris Sugarman will assume the role of interim executive director during the leadership transition.
Why it matters
The change in leadership arrives as the organization celebrates its 35th anniversary and continues its 2026-27 season programming. This transition ensures continuity for the forum as the board of directors seeks a permanent replacement for the role.
Mana Zarinejad served as executive director for 2.5 years before her departure. The Connecticut Forum is currently marking its 35th anniversary year.
The players
Mana Zarinejad
She served as the executive director of the Connecticut Forum for two and a half years.
Doris Sugarman
She is a co-founder and former CEO of the organization who will return to lead as the interim executive director.
The details
The board of directors has launched a national search to identify a permanent successor for the executive director position. In the interim, Doris Sugarman, who previously served as the organization's CEO, will oversee operations and the remainder of the 2026-27 season.
Timeline
Mana Zarinejad will conclude her tenure on October 29, 2026.
Market Landscape
The leadership change occurs midway through the organization's 2026-27 season, which serves as a critical benchmark for the forum's ongoing public engagement strategy. This move positions the nonprofit to maintain momentum following appearances by high-profile speakers like Trevor Noah.
Attendees of the 2026-27 season should anticipate no disruptions to scheduled events featuring speakers like Andrew Ross Sorkin and Chris Hayes. Ticket holders and subscribers will continue to have access to planned programming throughout the leadership transition.
The takeaway
Nonprofit boards often appoint experienced former executives to interim roles to maintain stability during leadership searches. This approach allows the organization to continue its high-profile event series while vetting long-term candidates for the top position.
Further reading
Learn more about local organizational shifts in the Hartford People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Hartford Business Journal.
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