New Canaan’s Eric Thunem, a longtime resident who grew up in town and has a background in finance, on Tuesday announced his candidacy for the Town Council. We put some questions to Thunem ahead of the July 25 Republican caucus, where he will seek party backing.
Here’s our exchange.
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New Canaanite: What is your background professionally and in terms of living and volunteering here in New Canaan?
Eric Thunem: I spent 11 years in the domestic oil and gas industry, and twenty-six years in financial services. In December 2021, I retired from Portfolio Advisors, LLC, a $40 billion private equity investment management firm, as Managing Director and Co-Head of Marketing and Client Services. My 37 years of professional experience include significant involvement in finance, marketing, and client service.
L-R: Pete, Eric, Cynnie and Ned Thunem
I grew up in New Canaan, attended Center School, East School, and graduated from New Canaan High School in 1975. I earned Eagle Scout in Troop 70. I graduated with a BA from the University of Connecticut, cum laude, and earned an MBA from Columbia University. My wife, Cynnie, and I have been residents and taxpayers in New Canaan since 1997. We have two sons, ages 27 and 25, who both attended New Canaan public schools. I am a longtime member of St. Mark’s Church, where I served as Vestry member, annual stewardship campaign chair, May Fair Chairman, and capital campaign volunteer; currently I’m a lector and usher, May Fair Executive Committee member, and I serve as a Chaplain on the pastoral care team. I am a parent advisor for the New Canaan Parent Support Group, and I serve on the New York Regional Advisory Board for Caron Treatment Centers. I am a member of the Exchange Club, and a Board member of the Town Players of New Canaan. I’m a Board member of the Gridiron Club of New Canaan and have been active in that organization for 20 years as an actor, researcher, writer, producer and director; I served as President from 2011 to 2021.
Why are you running for the Town Council?
Cynnie and Eric Thunem
New Canaan has been a wonderful place to live and raise our family, with a lively community spirit and citizens committed to community service. I believe I can be of greater service to our town as a member of the Town Council, and I want to give back to my community. I believe I have strengths in finance and people skills that I can contribute to the town of New Canaan and the Town Council.
What do you view as the biggest issues facing our town?
The biggest issues facing our town include public safety, preservation of property values and public school excellence, local zoning versus state-mandated zoning, and open space land preservation. Our town also must continue to deal with the need for better cellular telephone service in areas that need it.
Describe an instance where a Town Council decision changed your life in New Canaan for the better.
During the pandemic, when gyms and swimming pools were closed, my daily exercise was limited to taking long walks. It was great to have sidewalks all along South Avenue and Main Street for safe walking in and around town, as well as the miles of walking trails in Waveny and Irwin Parks. I’m grateful to the Town Council for helping to make that possible.
Finally, tell us something about yourself that many New Canaanites likely don’t know.
When I lived and worked in West Texas, I was once the opening act for the opening act for the opening act for Charlie Daniels.
As a 26 year resident of New Canaan, I am continually amazed at the high quality, accomplished candidates that continue to step forward and offer their leadership to our amazing and giving community-The Next Station To Heaven we know as New Canaan!
Congratulations Eric Thunem!!
You have four votes in our home!
Having known and worked with Eric in various capacities over the years, I know he will become a thoughtful member of Town Council who serves in the best interest of the entire community. Congratulations Eric and thank for stepping forward to serve.
A great guy for the position !!!
I wish Eric all the success of becoming a town council member. His leadership at St. Mark’s, the Boy Scouts and many other community based organizations have thrived under his leadership. Good luck Eric