Nominations

Influential Connecticut leaders are nominated to become Fellows, and organizers work to build Groves that are likely to advance the mission of Redwood Fellows.

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Fellows nominate leaders for consideration to join Redwood Fellows based on three criteria:

  • Influence and accomplishment as leaders advancing transformational work that directly impacts Connecticut;

  • Diversity as individuals, including age, gender, race, ethnicity, geographic location, life experience, political beliefs, and professional focus; and

  • Contribution to the broader community composition (e.g., how the nominee’s relationships and background will contribute to a trusting, dynamic Grove).

A Selection Committee composed of Fellows reviews all nominations against the criteria and then makes decisions to form the most dynamic Groves possible.

We launch two new Groves with about 24 Fellows each per year, ensuring each Grove represents multiple identity markers, ideologies, sectors, towns, and generations.

The first four Groves (2025 and 2026) are assembled, building a community of 84 influential leaders representing 12 professional sectors and 42 towns and cities across Connecticut.

The nomination and selection process for the 2027 Groves is underway. Nominations are due by September 25, 2026, and all nominations are considered as they are received. Selections happen through November and decisions are announced at the conclusion of the process.

Reach out here if you wish to be considered. And review our FAQs to learn more about Redwood Fellows.

Selection Committee

A smiling man wearing glasses and a red checkered button-up shirt, standing outdoors with boats in the background.

Devin Carney

Former State Representative

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Andrew Ferguson

Founder & CEO, Redwood Endeavors

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Dr. Rebecca Good

National Vice Provost, Relay Graduate School of Education

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Mel Medina

Vice President of Advocacy, The Connecticut Project

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Dr. Marcella Nunez-Smith

Associate Dean for Health Equity Research and Professor, Yale School of Medicine

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