It certainly didn’t take Lee Friedman very long to find a new gig. After stepping down as the longtime CEO of the nonprofit College Now late last year, Friedman joined Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) in December as its new executive in residence, developing and leading the college’s new President’s Society.
The announcement was made by Michael Baston, JD, Ed.D., president of Tri-C.
“This program seeks to level the playing field for community college students by offering unique opportunities that foster leadership, cultural enrichment and career preparedness,” Baston says. “Lee’s exceptional leadership at College Now made her the ideal choice to pioneer this initiative. Her ability to bridge the gap between education and the real world will be transformative for our students.”
During her tenure at College Now, Friedman transformed the organization into a national model for college access and success, helping thousands of students achieve their education and career goals. Her work at Tri-C is seen as a natural extension of this legacy, bringing her expertise to a broader audience of nontraditional, part-time and diverse students, Baston says.
The Tri-C President’s Society will prepare high-potential students with essential skills, confidence and professional networks to succeed in the workforce or pursue further education. Friedman will design and lead the program with a focus on a number of initiatives, including: developing a dynamic curriculum that emphasizes career readiness, leadership and cultural enrichment; creating impactful workshops and opportunities for student ambassadors to serve as campus leaders; mentoring and advising students to guide their development and professional growth; and engaging with business and community leaders to expand mentorship and networking opportunities.
Friedman will also partner strategically with Tri-C leadership on other key initiatives that enhance student success and expand workforce development offerings. She notes that her work with Tri-C is one of several civic projects she plans to pursue to advance the viability of Greater Cleveland.
