Executive Director Of Southport's Pequot Library To Step Down

FAIRFIELD, CT — Stephanie Coakley will step down as executive director of Pequot Library after nearly a decade leading the Southport-based institution, the organization announced this week. Her final day will be Aug. 26.

"It has been a privilege to lead this extraordinary organization," Coakley said in a statement shared by the library’s board. "I believe places like Pequot Library have a vital role in bridging divides and helping us understand how the past can inform the future."

The board has appointed Nelson North to serve as interim executive director while a search for Coakley’s successor is conducted.

Coakley has served as executive director since 2015. During her tenure, the library reported increases in community engagement and programmatic growth, as well as efforts to strengthen its long-term impact.

"Stephanie’s leadership has positioned Pequot Library for a bold and meaningful future," said Ali Fellowes, president of the board of trustees. "We thank her for her vision, passion and commitment to the library’s mission."

North is a former board chair of Pequot Library and previously served as executive director of the Connecticut Audubon Society. He brings decades of experience in nonprofit leadership.

The library, founded in 1889, has a mission "to enrich lives by serving the cultural, educational, and intellectual needs of the entire community."

Officials said it remains committed to its current mission and programming, and encourages community members with questions during the leadership transition to contact North directly at north@pequotlibrary.org.