Eric Harrison Named 2026 Power 50 Player by Hartford Business Journal

Hartford, CT (April 7,  2026) – United Way is thrilled to recognize the selection of its President and CEO, Eric Harrison, as a 2026 honoree of Hartford Business Journal’s Power 50 Players.    

Every year for the last seven years, Hartford Business Journal’s editorial staff identifies newsmakers and movers and shakers who are having a broad impact within the state. The HBJ Power Players list highlights private- and public-sector, nonprofit, higher education, real estate and other professionals in Connecticut who are not only top leaders within their organization, but also of the broader business community. 

Harrison has led United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut through significant milestones since joining the organization in 2022, including:  

• The development and implementation of a new strategic plan;  

• A strategic alliance with another local United Way;  

• The sale of its previous headquarters; and,  

• The celebration of its Centennial milestone, which yielded significant impact on individual major donors within the organization’s history.  

Currently, Eric is also Chair of Connecticut United Ways Chief Professional Officer’s Council (CPO Council) and serves on United Way of Connecticut’s Board of Directors. 

In addition, Rhona Free, President of University of St. Joseph and United Way’s Board member, was also recognized as 2026 Power 50 Player by Hartford Business Journal.   

Learn more about the 2026 HBJ Power 50 Players  and read Eric Harrison’s Profile. 

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 About United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut     

United Way mobilizes resources and aligns strategic partners to end poverty in the 860 region by closing gaps in child literacy, housing, wages and life expectancy with the goal of a region where there are equal opportunities for everyone to succeed. For more information, visit unitedwayinc.org 

Media contact: Anyeline Céspedes López | acespedes@unitedwayinc.org | 787.502.0436