Daum to lead Yale’s Office of New Haven Affairs and University Properties

Alexandra Daum, currently commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Economic Development (DECD), will join Yale in February as associate vice president for New Haven Affairs and University Properties, the university said today.

Daum “brings broad expertise in community advocacy and economic development combined with depth in real estate portfolio management,” Yale Senior Vice President for Operations Jack Callahan said in a message to members of the Yale community.

Daum succeeds Lauren Zucker, who is retiring after leading New Haven Affairs since 2011.

The Office of New Haven Affairs strengthens Yale’s impact on New Haven’s economy, public schools and youth, neighborhoods, local businesses, and community. University Properties manages Yale’s commercial properties in the city.

Daum joined DECD as deputy commissioner and chief investment officer in 2020. In 2022, she was named DECD commissioner by Gov. Ned Lamont and subsequently confirmed by the legislature.

“Throughout her tenure at DECD, Alexandra spearheaded numerous high-impact community redevelopment initiatives, most notably the Connecticut Communities Challenge Grant program, the Brownfield Municipal Grant Program, and the Community Investment Fund 2030,” Callahan said. “Under her leadership, DECD also made significant investments in business growth, with initiatives such as the Connecticut Small Business Boost Fund, JobsCT program, and the Manufacturing Innovation Fund.”

Earlier in her career, Daum founded and led Field Properties, a real estate investment firm in New Haven. She began her career in real estate development at Trammell Crow Residential in its Northern California division. Previously she worked as a strategy consultant at Bain & Company.

A graduate of Harvard College and Harvard Business School, Daum lives in downtown New Haven, adjacent to the Yale campus, with her husband and two children.

“Please join me in extending a warm welcome to Alexandra as she begins this exciting chapter at Yale,” Callahan said. “I am excited to work with Alexandra continuing the momentum and legacy that Lauren Zucker has left us across New Haven Affairs and University Properties. We look forward to the valuable contributions she will undoubtedly make to our community.”

In a separate, earlier message announcing Zucker’s retirement, in early 2024, Callahan praised her “remarkable 13-year career of unwavering commitment to our university and the New Haven community.”

“Her tireless efforts to bring town and gown together for the benefit of all have transformed our campus and the surrounding community into a dynamic and vibrant place to work, reside, and explore, and for that, we are truly grateful,” he said. “I invite you to join me in extending warm wishes to Lauren as she embarks on her well-deserved retirement.”