BFIT Announces Aisha Francis, Ph.D. as Chief Executive Officer

BOSTON, MA (AUGUST 19, 2020) – Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology (BFIT), a private non-profit college offering affordable education for people seeking technical careers, announced today that Aisha Francis, Ph.D. has been appointed as the college’s new Chief Executive Officer following her role as BFITs Chief of Staff. The appointment of Dr. Francis comes as BFIT leadership and its Board of Directors navigates the shifting higher-education landscape and prepares its students for success in a new dynamic of remote and hybrid learning.

“At a time of economic uncertainty and a national movement towards social justice and equity, BFIT’s unique focus on students of color and diversity is more relevant than ever before,” said Jed Nosal, Board Chair. “The appointment of Dr. Francis reflects the college’s vision for a dynamic higher education option leading to strong career paths for our students. The Board is confident that Dr. Francis offers the unique skills to lead all aspects of operations during this period of transformation, positioning the college to grow in the ways we serve students for years to come.”

In her newly created role, Dr. Francis will lead the college’s senior executive team, overseeing BFIT’s academic, admissions, and administrative departments. Additionally, Francis will spearhead the college’s development efforts of its new campus in Roxbury’s Nubian Square. BFITs current President, Anthony Benoit, has transitioned to President Emeritus and will depart from the college by the end of the 2020-21 academic year.

“Working in partnership with the senior leadership team at BFIT, the faculty, and the Board, I know we can play a critical role in creating opportunities for our students in a time of uncertainty,” said Dr. Francis. “I am delighted to play an expanded role at BFIT, and I look forward to deepening our relationships with businesses, the civic community, and elected officials in the year ahead.”

A presidential search committee, under the guidance of the college’s Board of Directors, has been established with the goal to have a new President in place by the start of the 2021-22 academic year.

About Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology

Founded in 1908 in Boston, Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology is one of New England’s oldest colleges of technology. Started with a bequest from Benjamin Franklin and a matching gift from Andrew Carnegie, the private non-profit college offers an affordable education for people seeking technical careers. BFIT is an affordable, urban college serving the Boston region and committed to student success and career readiness in technology fields. Through personalized support, hands-on learning, and industry-informed curricula, BFIT prepares graduates for work, life-long learning, and citizenship. For more information, please go to www.bfit.edu.

###