STORRS, CONN.: Matthew Pugliese, managing director of Connecticut Repertory Theatre (CRT), will leave the organization at the end of this month to pursue nonprofit development opportunities.

“I have had quite a long history with Matt, first when he was an undergraduate here, later as an actor, and finally here with our work together at CRT,” artistic director Michael Bradford said in a statement. “In each one of these facets I have thoroughly enjoyed the intelligence and compassion, the creativity, and the humanity Matt brings to every issue we’ve addressed and initiative we’re embarked upon.”

Pugliese joined CRT in 2013 as interim managing director before stepping into the position full time. He became the executive producer of CRT’s Nutmeg Summer Series in 2016. Pugliese received the School of Fine Arts Public Engagement Award for helping bring the Folger Shakespeare Library‘s first folio tour to Connecticut in 2016. He is an active member of the University/Resident Theatre Association (URTA)’s contract negotiation team and teaches in the University of Connecticut’s MFA arts administration program.

“I enjoyed returning to my alma mater and leading CRT, where I had my professional beginning as a student,” Pugliese said in a statement. “I’m proud of the work we have done to increase the diversity of our offerings, and to provide increased access to the theatre by partnering to provide ASL interpreted performances. I know that art and theatre can change people and change our world, and I look forward to new opportunities to do that.”