QCC President Named to Governor’s Economic Development Planning Council

Quinsigamond Community College President Dr. Luis G. Pedraja has been named to the Economic Development Planning Council. Dr. Pedraja will join a diverse group of members from across the Commonwealth that include leaders in higher education. The Council will be co-chaired by Lt. Governor Karyn Polito and Secretary of Housing and Economic Development Mike Kennealy. The goal of the Council is to provide Governor Charlie Baker with input and oversight of an economic development plan by year’s end.

“Our administration values the unique insight the members of the Economic Development Planning Council will bring under Lt. Governor Polito and Secretary Kennealy’s leadership to continue propelling Massachusetts’ economy forward,” said Governor Baker. “We remain committed to empowering local communities with the tools and funding needed to succeed and I look forward to reviewing the Council’s recommendations.”

Dr. Pedraja, who has already made his presence felt within the Central Massachusetts region since he took the helm of QCC in 2017, said he is honored to be part of the Council.

“Taking part on this Council is such a valuable way to help strengthen our economy and bring a voice to our community. I feel privileged to help bring to light the issues our community faces and work on ways to help bolster our region and the Commonwealth,” Dr. Pedraja said. “At QCC, our programs are aligned with the economic needs of the region. We train our students not only for the jobs of today, but for the global workforce of tomorrow.”

During the coming year the Council plans to hold regional sessions with the public in order to gain information that will assist in crafting a new economic development plan for Governor Baker’s review.