Lackawanna College President Named to Ben Franklin Technology Partners Board

Lackawanna College President Dr. Jill Murray has been selected as a member of the Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania (BFTP/NEP) Board of Directors. BFTP/NEP has led tech-based economic growth in the region for more than 35 years.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve on the Ben Franklin Technology Partners Board of Directors,” said Dr. Murray. “The appointment is an honor and I look forward to collaborating with this innovative organization to support our local economy and encourage the growth of new businesses within our region.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Jill Murray to our board,” said Angelo J. Valletta, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania. “Her deep experience and thoughtful perspectives will be a great asset to our organization.”

Dr. Jill Murray became the ninth and first female president of Lackawanna College on July 1, 2020. Prior to serving as president, Dr. Murray served as the College’s executive vice president and chief innovation officer from 2012 to July 1, 2020. From 2008-2012, she operated as the College’s vice president of academic affairs, where she was responsible for developing and overseeing all of Lackawanna College’s academic curricula.

During her time at Lackawanna, Dr. Murray has helped double the student population, increased student retention and graduation rates, expanded online learning options, and lead the creation of academic programming and support services. She also implemented a strategic planning process at the College.

Dr. Murray is the catalyst behind Lackawanna College’s successful esports program, one of NEPA’s first programs of its kind. Dr. Murray also assisted with the formation of the award-winning Level Up program, which allows high school students to affordably begin their college education and potentially complete an associate degree by high school graduation. Due to the success of the Level Up program, Lackawanna College was named one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies in 2021 by Fast Company.