Governor Rendell Announces Intention to Nominate Northeastern PA Business Leader as New DCED Secretary

Will Introduce Austin Burke as Nominee During a May 11 News Conference

HARRISBURG, Pa., May 7 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Edward G. Rendell announced today that he intends to nominate Austin Burke, the president of the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, as the new Department of Community and Economic Development secretary.

Governor Rendell intends to formally introduce Burke as his nominee during a news conference at noon on Tuesday, May 11, in his reception room, 225 Main Capitol Building, Harrisburg. The Governor will also recognize the work of outgoing DCED Secretary George Cornelius, who will soon leave his post to become the president of Bridgewater College in Virginia.

Burke brings a wide range of civic and community development experience to the commonwealth.

For the past 35 years, he has served the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, 30 of which were as the organization's president. During the past three years, he has also served on the Commonwealth Finance Authority.

His list of civic involvement includes volunteer leadership on numerous foundation, education, workforce and community improvement boards on the local, state and national level.    

Governor Rendell will submit Burke's nomination to the state Senate for confirmation.

For information on the Department of Community and Economic Development, visit www.newpa.com.

Media Contact: Gary Tuma, 717-783-1116

SOURCE Pennsylvania Office of the Governor