Lawrence, MA (November 20, 2025) \u2014 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.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt 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,\u201d said Ramirez. \u201cThe 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.\u201d<\/p>\n
Socrates De La Cruz, Chair of the Lawrence Partnership Board, lauded the work of Ramirez.<\/p>\n
\u201cUnder George\u2019s leadership, the Partnership has expanded its impact across workforce development, educational attainment, and community engagement\u2014strengthening collaboration among business, government, and nonprofit leaders throughout the Merrimack Valley,\u201d said De La Cruz. \u201cGeorge has left an indelible mark at a time when his leadership was sorely needed. We\u2019re forever grateful for his work.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Executive Committee of the Lawrence Partnership has appointed Dr. Naydeen Gonz\u00e1lez-De Jes\u00fas as Interim Executive Director, effective March 1, 2026. Gonz\u00e1lez-De Jes\u00fas 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.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m excited to continue working with George throughout this transition and build upon the success of the Lawrence Partnership in supporting a vibrant community,\u201d said Gonz\u00e1lez-De Jes\u00fas. \u201cThis 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.\u201d<\/p>\n
Gonz\u00e1lez-De Jes\u00fas 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\u2019s economic ecosystem.<\/p>\n
\u201cDr. Gonz\u00e1lez-De Jes\u00fas continues the tradition of energetic, thoughtful leadership that we envisioned when we first formed the Lawrence Partnership,\u201d said NECC President Dr. Lane A. Glenn, a founding member of the organization. \u201cI\u2019m proud of the work everyone has accomplished, and excited for what lies ahead.\u201d<\/p>\n
In her interim role, Gonz\u00e1lez-De Jes\u00fas will collaborate with the Partnership\u2019s board, staff, and community partners to advance ongoing projects and enhance the organization\u2019s fundraising and revenue-generating capacity\u2014laying the groundwork for a future search for a permanent Executive Director.<\/p>\n
\u201cDr. Gonz\u00e1lez-De Jes\u00fas 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,\u201d said De La Cruz.\u00a0\u00a0\u201cHer 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.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Lawrence Partnership remains focused on advancing its three strategic pillars:\u00a0Workforce Development, Educational Attainment, and Community Engagement\u2014continuing to build an inclusive economy that benefits all who live and work in Lawrence.<\/p>\n