Tara Downes

Tara Downes is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Connecticut’s School of Public Policy and currently serves as Deputy State Comptroller in the Connecticut Office of the State Comptroller. Her career spans 25 years in state policy, communications, and governance.

• B.A. in Print Journalism, Hofstra University (degree earned prior to roles listed)

Her expertise includes policy analysis, financial oversight, and strategic communications. She has managed high-profile initiatives such as litigation during the national financial crisis, pharmaceutical industry regulation, environmental protection strategies, healthcare policy reform, and Connecticut’s economic forecasting. Previously, she held roles as Assistant State Comptroller and Director of Communications to the State Comptroller.

No scientific awards or grants are explicitly listed in the text. Her advising and academic contributions focus on public policy education through the MPA Fellows Program. She is affiliated with the Hartford Campus and the Hartford Times Building location.