CCRI President Hughes Elected to Head Providence Chamber's Board

CCRI President Hughes Elected to Head Providence Chamber's Board

The Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce announced Friday that its Board of Directors has elected Dr. Meghan Hughes, Ph.D., president of the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI), as the organization’s next Board chair.

Hughes succeeds Alden Anderson, Jr., a commercial realtor., when his term expires on January 1, 2022.

Hughes has been a member of the Chamber Board since October 1, 2017.

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“I am honored to be selected to lead the Board of Directors for the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce at such a pivotal time in our state’s history, and I look forward to advancing the Chamber’s mission of championing economic prosperity and quality of life for Rhode Islanders,” said Meghan Hughes, president of the Community College of Rhode Island. “I know firsthand the critical role the Chamber plays in creating a robust economy for the state of Rhode Island. CCRI has long been part of this effort, ensuring employers have access to a well-educated and skilled workforce. As chair, I am committed to supporting even stronger partnerships between business, higher education, and workforce training to ensure more equitable outcomes and advancement opportunities for all residents, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve.”

“We are grateful for Alden’s leadership and commitment to advancing the Chamber’s economic development, advocacy and business growth initiatives in his tenure as chair. His steady and encouraging hand during the pandemic has also been invaluable in helping us to serve our members and community during these extraordinary times,” said Chamber President Laurie White. “We look forward to Alden continuing to share his expertise and energy as a Board member.”

“As chair, Dr. Hughes will bring a high level of experience and dynamism in a wide range of areas which will be vital to the Chamber’s role in Rhode Island’s pandemic recovery, workforce development, helping small businesses thrive, strengthening the business climate and supporting our community,” said White.

Hughes became the fifth president of the Community College of Rhode Island on Feb. 1, 2016. CCRI is the largest community college in New England with four main campuses. The college serves more than 45,000 Rhode Islanders annually and boasts more than 80,000 alumni.