Ceci Maher

Ceci Maher is an American politician and executive currently serving as a member of the Connecticut State Senate, representing District 26. A member of the Democratic Party, she has been in office since January 4, 2023, after winning a primary election in 2022. Maher’s district includes several communities in Connecticut, such as Darien, New Canaan, Redding, Ridgefield, Stamford, Weston, Westport, and Wilton. In her legislative role, she holds significant positions, including chair of the Children’s Committee and vice chair of the Higher Education & Employment Advancement Committee, along with memberships on several other committees.

Early life and career

Ceci Maher was born Catherine Cecilia Queeney on November 19, 1953, to John Hart Queeney and Rosalie Kirby Queeney. She is the second of six children in her family and spent her formative years in Stamford, Connecticut. Maher attended local schools in Stamford, where she laid the groundwork for her future educational and professional pursuits.

For her higher education, Maher enrolled at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in fashion merchandising. This academic background provided her with a foundation in business and consumer behavior, which she later applied in her professional career. Following her undergraduate studies, Maher transitioned into the workforce, beginning her career in the retail sector. In 1977, she joined Lord & Taylor, a well-known department store, where she gained valuable experience in retail management and operations. Over the years, she also worked for Target Corporation, further broadening her expertise in the retail industry.

In addition to her retail experience, Maher shifted her focus to the non-profit sector, where she held executive positions at various organizations in Connecticut. One notable role was with Sandy Hook Promise, an organization dedicated to preventing gun violence and promoting mental health awareness. Her work in this area reflects her commitment to social issues and community service, which would later influence her political career.

In 1995, Maher pursued further education and completed a Master of Social Work at Columbia University in New York. This advanced degree equipped her with a deeper understanding of social issues and the skills necessary to address them effectively. Her educational background in both fashion merchandising and social work illustrates her diverse interests and capabilities, which she has leveraged throughout her career.

Legislative service

Ceci Maher’s entry into politics began with an unsuccessful bid for the board of selectmen in Wilton, Connecticut, in 2019. Despite this initial setback, she continued to engage in community and political activities, ultimately leading to her endorsement by the Democratic Party for the Connecticut State Senate in 2022. Maher successfully won the primary election held on November 8, 2022, and subsequently took office on January 4, 2023, succeeding incumbent Will Haskell.

Since assuming her role in the Connecticut State Senate, Maher has been actively involved in various legislative committees. She serves as the chair of the Children’s Committee, where she focuses on issues related to child welfare, education, and family services. Additionally, she holds the position of vice chair of the Higher Education & Employment Advancement Committee, which addresses matters concerning higher education institutions and workforce development. Maher is also a member of several other committees, including Energy & Technology, Human Services, Internship, and Judiciary committees, reflecting her broad legislative interests and responsibilities.

Her legislative service is characterized by a commitment to addressing the needs of her constituents and advocating for policies that promote social welfare, education, and economic development. Maher’s background in social work and her experience in the non-profit sector inform her approach to legislation, as she seeks to create positive change within her district and the state.

Policy focus and district

Ceci Maher represents Connecticut's 26th Senate District, which encompasses a diverse range of communities, including Darien, New Canaan, Redding, Ridgefield, Stamford, Weston, Westport, and Wilton. This district is known for its affluent neighborhoods and strong community engagement, which presents both opportunities and challenges for its representative.

In her role as a state senator, Maher has focused on several key policy areas that resonate with her constituents. Her position as chair of the Children’s Committee underscores her dedication to issues affecting children and families, including education reform, child protection, and mental health services. Maher’s background in social work enhances her understanding of the complexities surrounding these issues, allowing her to advocate effectively for policies that support the well-being of children and families in her district.

Additionally, as vice chair of the Higher Education & Employment Advancement Committee, Maher addresses the critical intersection of education and workforce development. She is involved in discussions and initiatives aimed at improving access to higher education, enhancing vocational training programs, and fostering partnerships between educational institutions and employers. This focus is particularly relevant in a rapidly changing job market, where skills development is essential for economic growth.

Maher’s involvement in the Energy & Technology Committee reflects her awareness of the importance of sustainable practices and technological advancements in shaping the future of Connecticut. She advocates for policies that promote renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, and technological innovation, aligning with broader state and national goals for environmental sustainability.

Through her legislative work, Ceci Maher aims to address the diverse needs of her constituents while promoting policies that foster social equity, economic opportunity, and community resilience. Her multifaceted background and commitment to public service position her as a proactive and engaged member of the Connecticut State Senate.