President Christian joins Regional Economic Development Council

SUNY New Paltz President Donald P. Christian is the newest member of the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council (MHREDC), one of ten regional councils established by Governor Andrew Cuomo in 2011 with the goal of establishing a community-based approach to long-term economic planning, investment and growth.

“President Christian’s commitment to public higher education and the Mid-Hudson community make him a great addition to the MHREDC,” said Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Howard Zemsky. “From his experiences leading and teaching at public universities throughout the country, President Christian brings a national perspective to the Council and will be an asset to its local efforts to create jobs and improve the regional economy.”

The MHREDC covers Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester Counties, and is made up of a mix of representatives from government, business and non-profit community organizations.

President Christian’s addition to the council signals the centrality of higher education and SUNY New Paltz to these spheres of regional activity.

“We are proud to serve as the Mid-Hudson Valley’s four-year public university, providing a high-quality educational resource and economic engine to our region,” President Christian. “I am pleased to join the Council this year and support its mission for community-based economic development and growth across our seven-county region.”

The Mid-Hudson REDC is co-chaired by Dennis J. Murray, President Emeritus of Marist College, and Leonard S. Schleifer, President & CEO of Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

“With his background in the sciences and extensive record of engagement and service to the community, President Christian is an excellent addition to the Council,” said Co-chairs Murray and Schleifer.

REDCs have had a significant impact on job creation and community development in New York State since their inception, with nearly $4 billion awarded to more than 4,100 projects in accordance with each region’s strategic plan.

For more information on the Regional Councils, visit www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov.