Carrasco named NSCC trustee

LYNN – Governor Deval Patrick has named Maria Carrasco to the Board of Trustees of North Shore Community College. Carrasco is already serving her second term on the Lynn School Committee.”I’m so proud. It’s an honor and a privilege to accept the position,” she said. “And I’m a former student of NSCC.”Carrasco has been appointed to a five-year term as the board’s Alumni Trustee, replacing Dr. Donna Costa. The North Shore Career Center case manager holds an associate in science from NSCC as well as two certificates, one in human services/substance abuse counseling and one in authority to administer medications.NSCC spokesman Linda Brantley said she thought Carrasco would bring a fresh perspective to the board.When she first learned her name was on the table for an appointment Carrasco said she felt grateful because she believes the school is a gateway for many to a better life. She praised the school for its flexible class schedule, strong support of the English as a second language population and for its continued drive toward improving the quality of its courses according to the demands of the labor market.Yet she was still surprised she said when she received a letter from Patrick welcoming her to the board.In his appointment letter Patrick noted, “I appreciate your willingness to serve the Commonwealth in this capacity. Your experience and sound judgment will contribute substantially to the board.”As a trustee Carrasco is one of 11 charged with primary responsibilities including the selection and evaluation of the president of the college, participation in the development of the college’s five-year strategic plan, operating budget approval and budget amendment, and awarding of degrees.”We are delighted to welcome Maria to the NSCC Board of Trustees,” said NSCC President Wayne M. Burton. “We are certain that Maria’s knowledge and experience with the Lynn community will be invaluable to the college, particularly as we launch our plans to expand and renovate our Lynn campus to make it even more of a greater resource to Lynn residents.”NSCC has campuses in Beverly and Danvers as well as Lynn, and Carrasco admitted she is also happy there are now three trustees from Lynn.”North Shore Community College has been in Lynn many, many years and it makes it truly a privilege to serve,” she said.Chris Stevens can be reached at [email protected].