There is ample evidence that state political and business leaders increasingly view BSU at the forefront of many cutting-edge initiatives and a university that, ‘gets it done’.
Dedicated to preparing students for life after graduation, Bridgewater State University is expanding its presence with major business and public policy organizations in Boston to create more student opportunities for hands-on learning and career growth, establish and deepen partnerships with important companies and advocate for BSU and public higher education.
“There is ample evidence that state political and business leaders increasingly view BSU at the forefront of many cutting-edge initiatives and a university that, ‘gets it done’. said Vice President of Enrollment, Marketing and Communications Paul Jean. “In areas as diverse as photonics and optical engineering, cybersecurity and inclusivity, BSU is seen at the go-to player. Now is the time for BSU to have a more visible presence in the Boston business community.”
To be more involved requires having a seat at the table.
This past year members of the BSU community were appointed to various leadership positions within different organizations.
In May, Jean was appointed to the board of directors of the Massachusetts Taxpayer Foundation (MTF), which is one of the most respected voices on the state budget and a strong advocate for public higher education.
BSU President Frederick W. Clark Jr was appointed to serve on the board for the Massachusetts Business Roundtable (MBR).
MBR is comprised of chief executive officers and senior executives from some of the state’s largest employers. This is the first time a state university has had representation on the board.
"I am excited and honored to join leaders from across the state on the board of the Massachusetts Business Roundtable,” Clark said. “This position allows me to contribute to issues that affect the social and economic well-being of our state while highlighting the multitude of ways that BSU Works."
Also representing BSU is Senior Advisor for External Relations Vinny deMacedo, who was appointed to the board of the South Shore Chamber of Commerce (SSCC), one of the largest chambers in the state. Information Technology Vice President and Chief Information Officer Steven Zuromski is active on the Mass High Technology Council (MHTC), which brings together CEOs and senior executives of the major tech-driven companies as well as the Southeast Regional Homeland Security Council, which helps cities and towns work together on emergency preparedness and disaster response.
“BSU has emerged as a leading university in two critical high technological sectors, photonics and optical engineering and cybersecurity, which makes joining MHTC relevant to BSU,” Jean said.
deMacedo’s serving on the SSCC creates a direct line to local businesses for internships and job placement for students. It also offers opportunities to collaborate on research and continuing education programming that meet local employer needs.
“When members of our university serve on Boston’s leading business and public policy organizations, we are building connections, influencing major policy decisions and creating real opportunities for our students,” Jean said. “Every seat at the table is a chance to open doors, foster partnerships and prepare our graduates and create pathways that lead to successful careers after graduation.”
Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu