News release:
The Center for Family Justice (CFJ) announced today that Mark Antonini has been appointed Interim President and Chief Executive Officer.
Antonini joined CFJ in 2013 as Chief Financial and Administrative Officer and has more than 40 years of experience in finance, accounting, and operations. He has collaborated with staff, community partners, donors, and the Board of Directors on the organization’s day-to-day operations and planning. His appointment reflects confidence in the organization’s continuity while recognizing opportunities for the future. Mark also brings extensive familiarity with CFJ programs and has longstanding relationships throughout the community.
In a collective statement, the CFJ Board shared, “Mark has a deep understanding of the organization’s operations as well as the needs and challenges of the individuals and families it serves. We are confident in his ability to guide CFJ during this period and help position the organization for its next chapter. This is an opportunity to build on the progress that has been made and continue strengthening our impact in the years ahead.”
The appointment follows the retirement of Deb Greenwood, who served as President and CEO of CFJ for 19 years. During her tenure, Greenwood played a central role in expanding CFJ’s impact, including growing Speaking of Women into the organization’s signature annual fundraising event, leading the development of Patti’s Place to expand access to safe and confidential shelter, and establishing the agency as Connecticut’s Family Justice Center, a nationally-recognized model bringing 24/7 crisis services, advocacy, legal support, children and youth services, prevention education and safe shelter together under one roof.
The Board of Directors has begun the process of launching a formal search for CFJ’s next President and CEO, including the formation of a search committee and engagement of an external search firm. The Board is committed to identifying a leader who understands CFJ’s mission, and who will help shape the organization’s next phase of growth.
CFJ is a well-established nonprofit organization dedicated to serving individuals and families impacted by domestic violence, sexual violence, and child abuse. In addition to its direct services, the organization continues to engage the broader community through education, prevention initiatives, and signature fundraising events.
Upcoming events include the 14th Annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes? on April 25, 2026, led by event host and emcee Gary MacNamara, and An Inspiring One Man Show featuring America’s Top Lifestyle Expert Mar Jennings on Friday, May 22, 2026, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the
Sacred Heart University Community Theatre in Fairfield. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Center for Family Justice. Registration for Walk a Mile and tickets for An Inspiring One-Man
Show are available at centerforfamilyjustice.org.
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ABOUT THE CENTER FOR FAMILY JUSTICE Founded in Bridgeport more than 125 years ago, the Center for Family Justice provides comprehensive services to individuals and families impacted by domestic violence, sexual violence, and child abuse, working in close partnership with community organizations across the region.
A genuine welcome to Mark Antonini to succeed Debra Greenwood’s 19 years of service to support family justice in Bridgeport. To think that the organization has operated for 125 years provides the historical values to support addressing current injustices more successfully. Keep up the good and necessary work that is your purpose. Time will tell.