(Jan. 20, 2017) – The North Houston Regional Center for Economic Development (NHRCED) has announced Elizabeth Balderrama as interim director.

The NHRCED, a division of Lone Star College, works in collaboration with regional economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, business and industry, and government agencies and officials to help ensure that the region continues to provide value and profitability to businesses seeking to relocate or to expand here.

“Elizabeth has demonstrated the ability to help local companies find the right resources to grow and develop their businesses,” said Amos McDonald, LSC vice chancellor, External Affairs. “I know the center is in good hands as we move forward.”

In addition to housing a comprehensive databank about the north and northwest Houston area, the NHRCED offers a variety of support including helping companies in recruitment and site selection; providing leadership in community and economic development for the unincorporated areas of the region; and conducting research and reports outlining demographics, industry data and community assessments.

The mission of NHRCED is to “promote a dynamic entrepreneurial environment resulting in job creation and retention, and economic sustainability in the north Houston region.” It is housed in the LSC External Affairs office.

“I am grateful to Lone Star College for this opportunity to support local businesses,” said Balderrama. “I look forward to our current and future relationships.”

Balderrama takes over the reins as interim director following the retirement of Debbie Howle at the end of last year. Balderrama has worked with LSC for three years and holds a B.A. in Economics from Notre Dame. Before joining LSC, Balderrama interned at the Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce.

Visit LoneStar.edu/EconomicDevelopment to learn more.

Lone Star College offers high-quality, low-cost academic transfer and career training education to 98,000 students each semester. LSC is training tomorrow’s workforce today and redefining the community college experience to support student success. Stephen C. Head, Ph.D., serves as chancellor of LSC, the largest institution of higher education in the Houston area with an annual economic impact of $3.1 billion. LSC consists of six colleges, eight centers, two university centers, Lone Star Corporate College and LSC-Online. To learn more, visit LoneStar.edu.