MACC Kicks Off Virtual Conversation Series on Rebuilding the Economy

On Tuesday, June 9^th, Massachusetts Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Director Tom Sannicandro kicked off a new weekly series, “On the Road with the Community Colleges: Driving the Economic Recovery,” which will feature virtual conversations with Community College Presidents and leaders in the business community about the critical role community colleges can play in rebuilding the Commonwealth’s economy. This inaugural episode’s featured guests were Dr. Valerie Roberson, President of Roxbury Community College; Jim Brett, President and CEO of The New England Council; and Prabal Chakrabarti, Senior Vice President at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston.

Massachusetts Community Colleges are uniquely positioned to be a primary catalyst to the Commonwealth’s economic recovery throughout and following the COVID-19 pandemic. We have a record of rebuilding local economies, providing a pipeline of workers to high-demand industries, and serving as economic engines for all regions of the Commonwealth. As we begin to imagine life in America as the pandemic subsides, we must recognize the unique role of community colleges to re-skill and educate the workforce.

Through this series, MACC and the panelists will highlight the strong relationships between the community colleges, the business community, and other partners to examine the short- and long-term needs of Massachusetts employers and the workforce.