Hartford's Ex-Health Director Named CEO Of Nonprofit In City

HARTFORD, CT — Liany E. Arroyo, a former Hartford health director with more than two decades of experience in public health, government and nonprofit leadership, has been named the next chief executive officer of Advancing Connecticut Together.

Arroyo is expected to begin her new position Jan. 2, 2027, succeeding John Merz, who is stepping down after 28 years of leadership at the organization.

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Advancing Connecticut Together, known as ACT, is a statewide nonprofit that provides services addressing poverty, addiction, housing instability, and health inequities.

The organization announced Arroyo's appointment on Oct. 9 following a search conducted by its board of directors and CEO Search Committee, with assistance from Fio Partners.

"Liany's experience, perspective, and deep commitment to equity make her exceptionally well positioned to lead ACT," said Steven Hernández, chairman of the organization's board of directors.

"Her ability to bring people together, strengthen organizations, and connect strategy with community impact will be invaluable as ACT enters its next chapter," Hernández said.

Arroyo most recently served as director of the Connecticut Urban Opportunity Collaborative, an initiative involving three foundations focused on economic mobility and equity in Hartford, Bridgeport and New Haven.

In that role, she oversaw the Changemaker Fund, a three-year direct cash assistance initiative, and worked with philanthropic organizations and government partners to support financial stability for individuals and families.

Before that, Arroyo served as chief operating officer of Charter Oak Health Center, where she managed operations for a $21 million federally qualified health center serving approximately 18,000 patients annually.

She also previously led the City of Hartford's Department of Health and Human Services, overseeing more than 60 employees and managing the department's programs and budget.

During her tenure with Hartford, Arroyo directed the city's public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including developing testing and vaccination strategies intended to improve access for underserved communities.

She also helped establish health and housing protocols for residents experiencing homelessness, secured additional funding, and strengthened partnerships with community organizations.

"I am honored to join ACT and build upon its strong history of service, partnership, and advocacy," Arroyo said.

"ACT's work recognizes the powerful connections among health, housing, economic security, and justice. I look forward to listening and learning from ACT's staff, Board, partners, and the communities we serve as we work together to advance equitable opportunities for people throughout Connecticut."

Arroyo holds a Master of Business Administration in health care management from Yale University, a Master of Public Health from Columbia University, and a bachelor's degree in psychology with a minor in economics from Wellesley College.

She is also certified in public health and has participated in leadership development programs, including the Pozen-Commonwealth Fund Fellowship in Health Equity Leadership and the Presidential Leadership Scholars Program.

Leadership Transition

Arroyo's appointment comes as ACT prepares for a leadership transition following Merz's 28 years with the organization.

The board, search committee and Merz are working together to provide Arroyo with organizational information, professional relationships and resources ahead of her January start date.

"We are deeply grateful to John for his many years of leadership and service to ACT," Hernández said. "His dedication has helped build the strong, mission-driven organization Liany will lead into the future."

Advancing Connecticut Together provides case management, emergency financial assistance, HIV-related services, housing support, financial empowerment programs, tax preparation assistance, and advocacy throughout Connecticut. The organization also provides fiscal and administrative support to other human services initiatives across the state.