Goodwin University Appoints New Director for CT's First Inter-District Technical Magnet School

RiverTech at Goodwin University focuses on career pathways like automation, AI, and cybersecurity.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 10:00am

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A vibrant, pop art-inspired illustration featuring a repeating grid of stylized computer monitor icons in a bold, neon color palette, conceptually representing the technology-focused curriculum at RiverTech magnet school.RiverTech's innovative technical education program prepares students for careers in the digital economy.Hartford Today

Goodwin University Magnet School System has appointed former Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School principal Mark Ambruso as the new director of RiverTech at Goodwin University, the state's first inter-district technical magnet school that opened in 2025.

Why it matters

RiverTech represents a new model of technical and magnet education in Connecticut, focused on preparing students for in-demand careers in emerging fields like automation, AI, and cybersecurity. Ambruso's appointment signals Goodwin University's commitment to strengthening RiverTech's position as a statewide leader in this type of innovative, career-aligned programming.

The details

RiverTech, located in East Hartford, offers career pathways in areas like automation, AI, and cybersecurity. Ambruso, who previously served as principal of Windham Technical High School, is taking on the director role at RiverTech after earning the Connecticut Middle School Principal of the Year award during his time at Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School.

  • RiverTech opened in 2025 as the state's first inter-district technical magnet school.
  • Ambruso will officially begin his new role as RiverTech director on July 1, 2026.

The players

Mark Ambruso

Former principal of Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School and Windham Technical High School, who was named the new director of RiverTech at Goodwin University.

Goodwin University Magnet School System

The school system that operates RiverTech, the state's first inter-district technical magnet school.

RiverTech at Goodwin University

Connecticut's first inter-district technical magnet school, focused on career pathways in automation, AI, and cybersecurity.

Dr. Salvatore Menzo

Superintendent of the Goodwin University Magnet School System.

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What they’re saying

“I am honored to join the RiverTech community. RiverTech represents the future of education, where innovation, opportunity and student empowerment come together. I look forward to working with students, families, staff and partners to build pathways that truly change lives.”

— Mark Ambruso, New Director, RiverTech at Goodwin University

“With more than 25 years of experience in education and over 15 years in school leadership, Mark brings a proven record of innovation, student‑centered leadership, and community partnership to this critical role.”

— Goodwin University Magnet School System

“Mark's experience in technical education, combined with his commitment to student growth and real‑world learning, makes him an exceptional fit for RiverTech. As director, Mark will oversee RiverTech's continued development, expansion of career‑aligned programming and deepening of partnerships with industry and higher education. His leadership will play a key role in advancing RiverTech and strengthening its position as the statewide model for technical and magnet education.”

— Dr. Salvatore Menzo, Superintendent, Goodwin University Magnet School System

What’s next

Ambruso will officially begin his new role as RiverTech director on July 1, 2026.

The takeaway

The appointment of Mark Ambruso as the new director of RiverTech, Connecticut's first inter-district technical magnet school, signals Goodwin University's commitment to strengthening this innovative model of career-focused education and preparing students for in-demand jobs in emerging fields like automation, AI, and cybersecurity.