Building an Innovation Ecosystem in Northwestern Pennsylvania
Regions that have fundamentally transformed their economies are built on collaborative networks of innovators and entrepreneurs backed by educational, industry, and government partners. The academic community plays a fundamental role in spurring and sustaining innovation – providing student talent, faculty expertise, R&D resources, technology transfer, and start-up business support. Hear Penn State Behrend's vision for developing an innovation ecosystem in our region and how the college is working now to foster entrepreneurial activity. – Ralph Ford, Ph.D.
As Chancellor, Dr. Ford serves as Penn State Erie, The Behrend College's chief academic and administrative officer. He has more than 25 years of leadership experience in higher education and industry. At Behrend, he previously served as a faculty member and department chair in electrical and computer engineering, as director of the School of Engineering, and as associate dean for industry and external relations. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Clarkson University and master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Arizona.
