Meet GECAC's New CEO

November 21, 2024

GECAC NAMES DR. BENJAMIN WILSON

AS NEW CEO

The Greater Erie Community Action Committee is pleased to announce the appointment of Benjamin D. Wilson, Ed.D., as its new Chief Executive Officer effective December 9, 2024, following an extensive national search process. Dr. Wilson will replace Danny Jones, who announced in July his intention to retire.

Dr. Wilson, a respected leader in workforce development, education, and community service, will be the sixth CEO of GECAC following a unanimous vote by the board of directors. He returns to GECAC with a strong background in strategic program development and community leadership. With his extensive national experience, Dr. Wilson will guide the organization in its mission to serve Erie’s most vulnerable populations.

BIOGRAPHY

Dr. Wilson served as the Senior Advisor for Workforce Development and Transformation at Thomas P. Miller & Associates (TPMA), a national consulting firm recognized for its work in workforce development, education, research and evaluation, and economic development. During his time at TPMA, he was Director of Research and Evaluation, leading impactful projects across the country. He demonstrated his expertise in grant writing at local, state, and federal levels, securing millions of dollars in funding for organizations nationwide.

In his previous roles at GECAC, Dr. Wilson led significant program improvements, first as the Director of Self-Sufficiency Programs and later as the Director of Workforce Development. His strategic initiatives played a key role in the organization’s ability to fulfill its mission of eliminating poverty in Erie County through empowerment, education, and community partnership. Additionally, he served as the interim CEO of a Community Action Agency in Indiana, where he focused on ensuring compliance and enhancing organizational effectiveness.

Dr. Wilson’s commitment to education, workforce development, and government-led initiatives is evident throughout his career. As an Adjunct Professor at Erie County Community College, he mentors students and supports their professional growth. He earned his Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) from the University of Pittsburgh, where he focused his research on Erie County’s Summer Jobs and More program, now known as the Erie County Earn and Learn program, highlighting his commitment to youth and workforce development.

In addition to his professional responsibilities, he is actively involved in the community through various leadership roles. He serves on the boards of the Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority and Erie Homes for Children and Adults Inc. Additionally, he is a member of the Pennsylvania State Board of Education, where he contributes to the development of educational policies across the state.

Parris Baker, Ph.D.

President

GECAC Board of Directors

“We are extremely excited to have Ben Wilson leading GECAC. The GECAC Board fully supports Dr. Wilson and has complete confidence in his ability to fulfill our mission of Helping People, Changing Lives.”

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