PURCHASE, NY — April 2026 — Manhattanville University is proud to announce that President Frank Sánchez, Ph.D., has been appointed as a Regional Council Member of the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council (MHREDC).The Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council is the strategic economic advisory board representing the seven counties (Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester) that border New York City as well as major Northeast markets and is a key body responsible for shaping economic growth and development strategies across the region.
Dr. Sánchez joins a diverse group of leaders from business, academia, government, and nonprofit organizations who collaborate to advance the Mid-Hudson Valley’s economic priorities. Dr. Sánchez’s appointment reflects his leadership in higher education as well as his ongoing commitment to fostering innovation, workforce development, and community engagement throughout the mid-Hudson region.
“It is a tremendous honor to join the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council and contribute to the region’s continued growth and vitality,” said Dr. Sánchez. “Manhattanville University is deeply invested in the success of our local communities, and I look forward to working alongside fellow council members to support initiatives that drive opportunity, sustainability, and inclusive economic progress.”
Dr. Sánchez became President of Manhattanville University in 2024. Under his leadership, Manhattanville University has strengthened its role in the region as a higher learning convener, ensuring academic programs are aligned with workforce needs; announcing major expansions of academic pathways, accelerated degrees, and professional partnerships; and enhancing student opportunities for experiential and international learning.
Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs Dr. Marsha Gordon and Dr. Kristine Young said, “Dr. Sánchez will be a valuable addition to the Council. His leadership in higher education and dedication to fostering strong community partnerships position him well to help advance the Council’s mission. We look forward to working together to further drive workforce development, innovation, and economic growth across the Mid-Hudson region.”The Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council is one of ten regional councils established by New York State to drive community-led economic development. The Council plays a central role in identifying priorities and helping direct the state’s investment in support of job creation and economic growth.
About Manhattanville University
Manhattanville University (formerly Manhattanville College) is a private liberal arts institution dedicated to academic excellence, purposeful education, and social responsibility. “U.S. News and World Report” ranks Manhattanville among the Top Performers of Social Mobility in Regional Universities North. The university has been recognized among the best colleges in The Princeton Review for close to 20 years. Located 30 miles from New York City on a 100-acre suburban campus in the heart of Westchester County, Manhattanville enables easy access to entertainment offerings, educational resources, and business opportunities for its diverse student body. The university serves more than 1,400 undergraduate students and nearly 1,000 graduate students from more than 44 countries and 33 states. Founded in 1841, the university offers more than 75 undergraduate and graduate areas of study in the arts and sciences, education, nursing and health sciences, business, and creative writing, as well as continuing and executive education programs. Graduate students can choose from over 70 graduate and certificate programs. Extracurricular offerings include more than 45 clubs and activities, and 23 NCAA Division III teams. For more information, visit mville.edu
About Empire State Development
Empire State Development is New York's chief economic development agency, and promotes business growth, job creation, and greater economic opportunity throughout the state. With offices in each of the state's 10 regions, ESD oversees the Regional Economic Development Councils, supports broadband equity through the ConnectALL office, and is growing the workforce of tomorrow through the Office of Strategic Workforce Development. The agency engages with emerging and next generation industries like clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing looking to grow in New York State, operates a network of assistance centers to help small businesses grow and succeed, and promotes the state's world class tourism destinations through I LOVE NY. For more information, please visit esd.ny.gov, and connect with ESD on LinkedIn, Facebook and X
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