Lawrence, MA (November 20, 2025) — After four years of successful leadership, the Lawrence Partnership announced that Executive Director George Ramirez would be stepping down from his role effective February 2026.

“It has been my great honor to serve as the Executive Director of the Lawrence Partnership to advance its mission of improving the quality of life of Lawrence citizens through inclusive economic development,” said Ramirez. “The board and staff are among the most committed people I have ever worked with, and I believe the organization is well-positioned to continue its mission. While I will be transitioning in my role, I look forward to pursuing new opportunities where I can make an impact.”

Socrates De La Cruz, Chair of the Lawrence Partnership Board, lauded the work of Ramirez.

“Under George’s leadership, the Partnership has expanded its impact across workforce development, educational attainment, and community engagement—strengthening collaboration among business, government, and nonprofit leaders throughout the Merrimack Valley,” said De La Cruz. “George has left an indelible mark at a time when his leadership was sorely needed. We’re forever grateful for his work.”

The Executive Committee of the Lawrence Partnership has appointed Dr. Naydeen González-De Jesús as Interim Executive Director, effective March 1, 2026. González-De Jesús currently serves as Vice President of Lawrence Campus and Community Relations at Northern Essex Community College, where she has been a driving force in building partnerships that expand access to education, workforce opportunities, and economic mobility.

“I’m excited to continue working with George throughout this transition and build upon the success of the Lawrence Partnership in supporting a vibrant community,” said González-De Jesús. “This is a pivotal time for our city, with tremendous opportunities to strengthen collaboration, further invest in our people, and continue to build an inclusive and resilient future together.”

González-De Jesús brings extensive national and international experience to this role. Her previous work includes international diplomatic engagement with the U.S. Department of State, as well as leadership in resource development, apprenticeships, business incubators, and workforce innovation initiatives across New Jersey, Wisconsin, and Texas. These experiences offer a valuable perspective on strategic leadership and innovation as the Partnership continues to strengthen Lawrence’s economic ecosystem.

“Dr. González-De Jesús continues the tradition of energetic, thoughtful leadership that we envisioned when we first formed the Lawrence Partnership,” said NECC President Dr. Lane A. Glenn, a founding member of the organization. “I’m proud of the work everyone has accomplished, and excited for what lies ahead.”

In her interim role, González-De Jesús will collaborate with the Partnership’s board, staff, and community partners to advance ongoing projects and enhance the organization’s fundraising and revenue-generating capacity—laying the groundwork for a future search for a permanent Executive Director.

“Dr. González-De Jesús has demonstrated true commitment to our city and the mission of our organization, so we are grateful that she is bringing her experience to this role as we transition,” said De La Cruz.  “Her understanding of Lawrence, combined with her national and international experience, makes her uniquely suited to guide the Partnership through this transition and into its next phase of growth.”

The Lawrence Partnership remains focused on advancing its three strategic pillars: Workforce Development, Educational Attainment, and Community Engagement—continuing to build an inclusive economy that benefits all who live and work in Lawrence.

For more information about the transition, contact George Ramirez at the Lawrence Partnership at gramirez@lawrencepartnership.org.