Purdue Northwest names senior economic development fellow
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A former assistant secretary of commerce for the federal Economic Development Administration has been appointed as the senior fellow for economic development at Purdue University Northwest.
The university said Alejandra Castillo will advance innovation and community development for the university as well as for the northwest Indiana and Chicago region.
She joins the university after serving as a fall 2024 Institute of Politics fellow at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government. From August 2021 to September 2024, she served as an assistant secretary of commerce for the Economic Development Administration, a bureau of the U.S. Department of Commerce.
“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,” Chancellor Kenneth Holford said in a news release. “She brings a wealth of experiences and expertise that will significantly benefit our students, faculty and staff, and community members.”
At Purdue Northwest, Castillo will work through the university’s College of Business, teaching seminars on economic development and supporting initiatives that enhance regional competitiveness, the news release said. She also will help launch the Roberts Impact Lab, a hub of entrepreneurship, innovation and education in downtown Hammond.
“I am eager to bring my experience in leading transformative initiatives such as the American Rescue Plan, Tech Hubs, and Recompete (community investment) programs to PNW and the broader region,” Castillo said in the news release. “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.”
Prior to her most recent role at the Economic Development Administration, Castillo served as the CEO of YWCA USA, as a senior adviser for the International Trade Administration and as executive director of the Hispanic National Bar Association, according to her LinkedIn profile. She also worked in a number of other roles for the Commerce Department.
She has a bachelor’s degree in economics and political science from the State University of New York, a master’s in public policy from the University of Texas, and a law degree from American University.