Schillo Highlights DU Leadership in Economic Development at National Conference

Steve Schillo, vice president for management and business, spoke at a session of the annual, national State Science and Technology Institute (SSTI) conference about Duquesne’s leadership in promoting local economic and community development.

Held in Pittsburgh, the conference brought together Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell and former governors Tom Ridge and Dick Thornburgh to discuss the results of economic growth through emerging technology-based entrepreneurial firms. The meetings also addressed the role of higher education institutions in collaborating locally with intellectual capital, research and innovation, and young talent.

Schillo spoke of Duquesne’s instrumental role with the Hill House Economic Development Corp. in forming the Pittsburgh Central Keystone Innovation Zone (PCKIZ) in 2007. Based in the Hill District, Uptown and Downtown, and parts of the South Side and the North Side, PCKIZ is a local consortium designed to create economic sustainability in the region by supporting young, technology-oriented businesses.

“As a proactive partner in the community, Duquesne strives to promote the area’s growth in ways that make sense. PCKIZ is a strategy with room for flexibility and customization, allowing the region’s history and specific needs to serve as a mold and pathway for the right investments,” said Schillo, who currently serves as chair of PCKIZ’s board of directors.

To date, PCKIZ has had significant results:

• 28 diverse and dynamic companies established
• 56 jobs supported
• 63 internships developed
• total revenue quickly approaching $9 million.

“Service to our community is a core value at Duquesne. Our active partnership with PCKIZ and its other supporters is one of the ways in which we live our mission and transform our neighborhood into a strong, thriving ecosystem,” Schillo explained.

Duquesne University’s 2010-2015 Strategic Plan emphasizes increased outreach to the Hill District.