Lazaro Lpez, senior director of pathways at NIU’s Education Systems Center
In late September, Governor JB Pritzker announced his latest appointments to state boards and commissions. Lázaro López, Ed.D., senior director of pathways for NIU’s Education Systems Center, was appointed to the Illinois Workforce Innovation Board.
In that role, López will work with educators, employers, government and community organizations to create systems to help students prepare for college and careers. The goal is to ensure that all Illinois residents have the chance to learn vital career skills and access good jobs, even as technology continues to change workforce needs.
López has dedicated his career to building bridges between K-12 education, higher education and the modern workforce. His experience as associate superintendent for teaching and learning at High School District 214 in Arlington Heights and as chair of the Illinois Community College Board uniquely position López for this appointment.
“I’m honored to be appointed by Governor Pritzker to the Illinois Workforce Innovation Board at a time when rapid changes in technology and the economy are reshaping how we think about education and workforce development,” López says. “This opportunity closely aligns with our work at NIU’s Education Systems Center to strengthen community connections, expand access to economic opportunity and help Illinois meet evolving workforce needs.”
