Purdue University Northwest (PNW) is excited to announce the appointment of Alejandra Y. Castillo as the university's Senior Fellow for Economic Development. Castillo, a distinguished leader in federal economic development, will bring her extensive experience to PNW, where she will play a key role in advancing economic growth, innovation and community development for the university and the greater Northwest Indiana and Chicago region.

Castillo's impressive career spans over two decades of public service and nonprofit leadership. She most recently served as the 23rd U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development, where she led the Economic Development Administration (EDA) through a period of unprecedented growth, overseeing the distribution of more than $6.8 billion in federal investments. These funds supported over 800 projects, created or retained over 700,000 jobs, and fostered inclusive economic growth in critical sectors such as workforce development, technology and innovation, and economic disaster recovery.

“I am delighted to welcome Alejandra Y. Castillo to the PNW campuses and our greater South Shore region. Having someone of her profile join the university is an excellent example of the positive impact PNW has for the communities we serve and beyond,” said PNW Chancellor Kenneth C. Holford. “She brings a wealth of experiences and expertise that will significantly benefit our students, faculty and staff, and community members.”

At PNW, Castillo will focus on fostering economic engagement and development through the university’s College of Business, teaching seminars on economic development and supporting initiatives that enhance regional competitiveness. She will also be integral to the launch of the Roberts Impact Lab at Purdue Northwest, an innovation hub located in downtown Hammond, which will serve as a center for collaborative problem-solving on regional and global challenges.

"I am thrilled to join Purdue Northwest as the chancellor’s Senior Fellow for Economic Development," Castillo said. "I am eager to bring my experience in leading transformative initiatives such as the American Rescue Plan, Tech Hubs, and Recompete programs to PNW and the broader region. Together, we can develop innovative strategies to create sustainable economic opportunities for all, while supporting the growth of regional businesses and preparing the next generation of leaders."

Castillo’s appointment is part of PNW’s broader commitment to regional development and innovation. As a member of the Greater South Shore Steering Committee, she will provide expert guidance on strategies to spur economic expansion in the South Shore area. Her work will directly benefit PNW students and faculty through the advancement of research and community engagement initiatives.

PNW also looks forward to leveraging Castillo’s leadership in economic disaster recovery, workforce development, and tech innovation to advance the university’s mission of transforming lives through education, research, and community engagement. Castillo’s recent work includes her role as a Fall 2024 Institute of Politics Fellow at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government, where she explored the intersection of democracy, national security, and technological advancement.

Castillo holds a B.A. in Economics and Political Science from the State University of New York at Stony Brook, an M.A. in Public Policy from the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin, and a J.D. from American University, Washington College of Law. Her civic and professional involvement includes memberships in the Hispanic National Bar Association, the American Constitution Society, and the Council on Foreign Relations.

Castillo begins her role with PNW on January 6. She will report directly to Holford.