Bridgeport, CT — The Center for Family Justice (CFJ) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Antonini as the agency’s permanent President & Chief Executive Officer.

The announcement was made by Board Chair Kristin Okesson at the agency’s annual meeting on Tuesday, June 23rd, which also celebrated CFJ’s 10th anniversary as Connecticut’s first Family Justice Center.

“How fortunate are we that the best person for the job happened to be right in front of us this entire time,” said Okesson.

Antonini has been serving as Interim President & CEO of the agency since March 1st and has led the agency through this transition with grace and unwavering dedication, so it wasn’t much of a surprise that the Board of Directors asked Antonini to stay on board.

“I am deeply honored to lead The Center for Family Justice and build upon its legacy of relentless advocacy and compassionate care,” says Antonini. “I look forward to working alongside our talented team, dedicated board, and generous supporters to expand our reach, enhance our services, and deepen our impact in the communities we serve.”

Celebrating A Decade of Impact

Antonini reflected on the agency’s impact over the last decade, noting milestones such as the launch of New England’s first trauma-informed summer camp and mentoring program, Camp HOPE America-Bridgeport; the launch of their Pro Bono Legal Center; and the opening of their state-of-the-art domestic violence safe house, Patti’s Place.

“Each of these efforts reflects our commitment to removing barriers, strengthening partnerships, and creating clear pathways to safety and independence,” said Antonini.

Video remarks from Governor Ned Lamont, Senator Richard Blumenthal, and Congressman Jim Himes congratulating the agency on its anniversary were shown during the program.

Our 2026 Honorees

Several awards were presented throughout the evening to individuals and organizations for their outstanding commitment to CFJ’s mission.

  • Unilever was named Corporate Partner of the Year for its years of volunteer service and commitment to CFJ’s child clients during the holiday season, having hosted the agency’s annual holiday party for almost two decades.
  • Law firm Pullman and Comley was named Community Hero of the Year in recognition of its longstanding partnership with the CFJ’s Legal Services program since its inception in 2016.
  • Bridgeport Rescue Mission is named Partner of the Year for its exceptional collaboration with CFJ, helping increase access to essential resources and hope for families throughout the community.
  • Jason Hammel received the Beatrice Boucher Volunteer of the Year award in recognition of the strong work ethic and kindhearted nature he demonstrated during his internship with CFJ’s advocacy department.
  • Nanja Raymond, CFJ’s Program Manager of Sexual Violence and Campus Advocacy Services, was named the Carol Roberto Employee of the Year. Raymond was chosen by her fellow staff for her strong commitment to the agency, positive and uplifting attitude, and her willingness to go the extra mile to support their work and coworkers.
  • Finally, the Mark A. Antonini Award, introduced in 2024, was given not just to one individual but to the entire Center for Family Justice staff, in recognition of the strength, heart, and dedication they continue to show to the agency and to each other amidst an especially challenging year.

Looking ahead, The Center for Family Justice remains committed to its mission under its new leadership, with exciting events on the horizon. Supporters are invited to join CFJ at its annual Speaking of Women luncheon at The Waterview on September 15 and the festive Christmas at the Burr celebration in Fairfield from December 4–6. Together, these events will help sustain CFJ’s vital work and strengthen its impact across the community.

About The Center for Family Justice, Inc.

The Center for Family Justice breaks the cycle of abuse and violence – domestic, sexual and child – by providing services that create hope, restore lives and drive social change through education and community collaboration.

For more information, please visit: https://centerforfamilyjustice.org/about-us/what-we-do/mission-vision-values/

If you are in a crisis situation and need help, please call our 24/7 hotlines:

  • Domestic Violence: 203-384-9559
  • Sexual assault: 203-333-2233
  • Spanish: 888-568-8332
  • Text: (888) 999-5545