DiVittorio named Interim Executive Director
Matthew Platz, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Corry Higher Education Council, has announced that he will step down from his position in September after accepting the position of Executive Director of the Erie Center for Arts & Technology (ECAT). Platz will begin his new role on September 8.
Platz has served as Executive Director of the Corry Higher Education Council for nearly four years, leading the organization through a period of growth in educational programming, workforce development, community partnerships, grant funding, and regional collaboration.
“This was an incredibly difficult decision because I care deeply about the Corry Higher Education Council and the Corry community,” Platz said. “The opportunity to serve this organization has been one of the greatest privileges of my professional career. I am extraordinarily proud of what our staff, Board, community partners, and supporters have accomplished together.”
During Platz’s tenure, the Council strengthened partnerships with educational institutions, employers, foundations, government agencies, and community organizations while expanding its role in addressing education and workforce needs throughout the region.
Platz said his decision to accept the ECAT position reflects a desire to continue the type of mission-driven work that has defined his time in Corry while expanding his opportunity to serve Erie County.
“The work we do in Corry has reinforced something I believe very strongly: education and opportunity can change the trajectory of an individual, a family, and ultimately an entire community,” Platz said. “ECAT’s commitment to transforming lives through education, workforce development, and the arts speaks directly to those values. I see this as an opportunity to continue that work while serving our region in a new capacity.”
The Erie Center for Arts & Technology provides adult career training and youth arts programming and is based on the Manchester Bidwell model, which emphasizes the transformative impact of education, creativity, environment, and opportunity.
“ECAT is thrilled to have someone of Matt’s caliber leading the organization into its next chapter,” said Laura Guncheon, Interim Executive Director and Vice Chair of the Board of Directors. “His experience, vision, and passion for creating meaningful change make him an exceptional fit. The work happening at ECAT is transformational, improving lives and strengthening communities, and we are excited to have Matt at the helm as we continue to expand that impact.”
Despite accepting a position based in Erie, Platz emphasized that his connection to Corry will continue.
“Leaving this position does not mean leaving Corry behind,” Platz said. “This community has been an important part of my life and my career, and I intend to remain an advocate for Corry and for the people and organizations working every day to move this community forward. There is tremendous momentum here, and I am excited to see what comes next.”
DiVittorio Selected to Provide Leadership During Transition
The Corry Higher Education Council Board of Directors has selected current Assistant Director Kathryn DiVittorio to serve as Interim Executive Director following Platz’s departure.
DiVittorio brings extensive knowledge of the Council’s programs, operations, partnerships, and ongoing initiatives to the interim position. Her familiarity with the organization and the community will provide continuity as the Council enters its next chapter.
“I could not have greater confidence in Kat’s ability to lead the organization through this transition,” Platz said. “Her dedication to the Corry Higher Education Council and the people we serve is unmatched. She knows this organization, believes deeply in its mission, and has been an integral part of everything we have accomplished. The Council will be in very capable hands.”
Platz will continue working with the Board, DiVittorio, staff, and community partners during his remaining weeks to ensure an orderly transition before assuming his new responsibilities at ECAT on September 8.
