Joe Cassidy Becomes Assistant Provost of Workforce and Economic Development

[Glen Ellyn, IL - March, 2024] -College of DuPage is pleased to announce the promotion of Joe Cassidy, MBA EdD as the new Assistant Provost of Workforce and Economic Development. With a long-standing background in fostering innovation and supporting small businesses, Cassidy's elevation underscores the institution's commitment to advancing economic growth in DuPage County and beyond.

As President and founding Board Chair of Innovation DuPage, Cassidy has demonstrated exceptional leadership in nurturing entrepreneurial ecosystems. His pivotal role in the establishment and management of Innovation DuPage speaks volumes about his dedication to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Moreover, Cassidy's extensive research, as reflected in his doctoral dissertation titled "Innovation DuPage: A Mixed Methods Case Study for Creating a Business Incubator at US Community Colleges," serves as a foundational blueprint for the DuPage Innovation Engine, driving sustainable economic development initiatives.

"Being appointed as Assistant Provost of Workforce and Economic Development is a tremendous honor," remarked Cassidy. "I am deeply committed to leveraging this role to facilitate the growth of entrepreneurs, startups and small businesses in our region. Through strategic partnerships and innovative programs, we will empower individuals to realize their entrepreneurial ambitions, thereby fueling economic prosperity in our community."

In his capacity as AVP of Economic Development and Dean of Continuing Education at College of DuPage, Cassidy has been instrumental in overseeing critical initiatives such as the regional Small Business Development Center and Procurement Technical Assistance Center. His direct involvement in Career and Technical Education further underscores his comprehensive approach towards workforce development, ensuring that individuals are equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in today's dynamic economy.

Cassidy's influence extends beyond the College of DuPage, as evidenced by his involvement with key organizations such as Choose DuPage and WorkNet DuPage. His collaboration with the National Association of Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE) exemplifies his commitment to sharing best practices and fostering collaboration on a national scale. Cassidy is the President-elect of the National Council for Continuing Education and the Finance Chair of Naropa University’s Board of Trustees. Cassidy's speaking engagements at prestigious institutions and conferences, include the National Council for Continuing Education and Training (NCCET), Stanford University and the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC).  In 2022 Cassidy received an Entrepreneur Excellence Award from The Daily Herald Suburban Business for Outstanding Service to Entrepreneurs.

"We are thrilled to have Joe Cassidy assume the role of Assistant Provost of Workforce and Economic Development," stated Dr. Brian Caputo, President of College of DuPage. "His unparalleled expertise and unwavering dedication to advancing economic development make him the ideal candidate to lead our efforts in driving innovation and supporting small businesses. Under Joe's leadership, we are confident that College of DuPage will continue to serve as a catalyst for economic growth and prosperity in our community."

As College of DuPage embarks on its journey towards realizing its vision of becoming a beacon of innovation and entrepreneurship, Cassidy's appointment heralds a new era of possibility and opportunity for DuPage County and beyond.