Business & Tech

Carso New Connecticut Humanities Development Director

This Middlefield resident, named to the Hartford Business Journal's 40 under 40, worked in the field for 12 years, and is former managing director of Wesleyan's Green Street Arts Center in Middletown.

Connecticut Humanities has hired Jessica Carso as its new development director to help carry out its five-year strategic plan. 

Carso, most recently the senior development director at the Middlesex YMCA, brings passion for Connecticut Humanities’ mission and strong development experience to her role. President of the Connecticut chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, she’s also the former managing director at Wesleyan University’s Green Street Arts Center. 

“Her previous experience gives her a solid foundation for our work here at Connecticut Humanities, but it is her passion for our mission that really sets her apart,” said Stuart Parnes, executive director. “She really believes in the value of CTH, and that can’t be learned on the job.” 

“CTH has flourished under generous funding from the State of Connecticut and the National Endowment for the Humanities, but we all know that these public funds are under intense pressure,” he said. 

“It is critical that we broaden our base of support by building more and stronger relationships with individuals, foundations and corporations. Jessica will be a terrific partner for me and my board in cultivating these relationships.” 

Carso, named to the Hartford Business Journal’s 40 under 40, has worked in development for 12 years managing grant writing, event planning, annual campaigns and individual giving. Her volunteer work with CTH’s public humanities program fueled her interest in the 36-year-old organization. 

While her experience is essential, the Middlefield resident said, “it is my passion for Connecticut Humanities as a connector to our history, our society and to one another that will serve me best.” She plans to establish a diverse and sustainable fundraising program to ensure CTH continues its mission.

“My ultimate goal is to bring people together to learn about Connecticut Humanities, the ways in which the organization contributes to our great state, and how the humanities have touched others. Connecting our stories is ultimately how genuine and long-term support will be gained.” 

Carso is also the chair of the Fund for Women & Girls, Community Foundation of Middlesex County; she holds a BA from Marymount Manhattan College and a MALS from Wesleyan University. 


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